There are a couple things in this world that could be considered “universal experiences”, or a certain happening that nearly everyone has expressed having experienced before. One of those things is celebration.
Around the world, different cultures and demographics each have their own aspects that they celebrate, from inanimate objects, to whole events based around commemorations. Here are the top 5 most unusual but charmingly unique celebrations done around the world:
5. World Egg Day
According to the International Egg Commission, which is an interesting fact to know that a commission such as this exists in the first place, World Egg Day is officially on every second Friday of October.
Given how nutritious, relatively affordable, and overall versatile eggs can be, it is no surprise that they are celebrated around the world. The Commission’s official website actually suggests ways on how to participate in the event; whether through a “[…] social media campaign, or organizing an awards programme […]” anyone can join in on the celebrations.
See more on their official website: https://www.internationalegg.com/our-work/world-egg-day/
4. La Pourcailhade
In a similar vein, on every second Sunday in August, residents of Hautes-Pyrénés, Frances ban together to go Ham over their celebration on this day called La Pourchailhade. During this festival, the star of the show happens to be the Trie Sur Baïse pig market’s specialty of roast pork. One whole day, raising awareness about the declining pig-farming industry in the area.
This particular celebration is done through decorative pig-themed paraphernalia, including corkscrews and general decorations in most shop windows. Pig races are held during this event as well; even the black-pudding-eating competition tends to turn a few heads. However, there is one event that truly cements its status as an “unusual” celebration. This is their Cri do Cochon, or their Pig Squealing Championships. Here, participants take turns imitating and living through the life cycle of a pig.
3. Underwater Music Festival
It has been 25 years since its initial conception and eventual execution, and Bill Becker, the founder, coordinator, and music director of the Underwater Music Festival, does not seem like he will be stopping any time soon.
Located in Big Pine Key, Florida, it provides an avenue for both music lovers and diving enthusiasts to meet and mingle in an intriguing mix of music and freewater diving. In this festival, participants are given the opportunity to groove to the beats of pre-recorded ocean-themed songs while underwater. People who have attended events have reported that their experience of listening to music underwater has been described as “ethereal,” so it’s definitely something worth checking out.
2. La tomatina
Also happening around the month of August, specifically on the last Wednesday of that week, is the wildest food fight you could ever experience while not on the set of a high school coming-of-age movie.
In the town of Buñol, in the country of Spain, festival goers will be able to let loose and pelt other fellow festival participants with thousands upon thousands of tomatoes during the festival. After Noon, trucks will bring a large number of tomatoes into the city for an hour-long-nonstop food fight. Afterwhich, once the ceasefire has been announced, fire trucks will enter the city to hose down the streets and walls of most buildings. Festival goers should then opt for nearby wells or kind shop goers to hose them down.
This whole event truly is not meant for those with a weak heart, but rather those who crave adventure and wante some extra excitement in their lives.
1. Naki Sumo Cry Baby Festival
While festivals are known as times where joy and loud noises are encouraged, surely the top of the list would be the one where there would be the most noise. However, rather than the noise of laughter, what one would hear during this festival would be the sound of children crying.
The main event is held in Sensoji, Asakusa, but there are also instances of this festival being celebrated in other parts of Japan.
Initially, it may sound weird to have a festival wherein people’s goals would be to make their children cry, it’s a belief in Japan that babies who cry hard will grow up strong and healthy, as well as to drive away evil spirits.
