Discover Europe’s most bizarre, joyful and unique Festivals! Europe isn’t just about elegant architecture and rich history; it’s also a hotspot for some of the most wildly entertaining and downright quirky festivals you could imagine! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply in search of a good laugh, Europe’s bizarre festivals and sports events offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the most unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Pack your bags, bring your sense of humor, and join the fun!
Events calendar on the wall, which is the quirkiest event of them all?
La Tomatina (Buñol, Spain) – Imagine a town square turned into a tomato battleground, where thousands of people from all over the globe gather to hurl overripe tomatoes at each other. Welcome to La Tomatina! Held on the last Wednesday of August, this festival is all about tomato-tossing fun. Dive into the red pulp and experience the world’s biggest food fight. It’s not just crazy; it’s a hilarious way to let loose!
The Cheese Rolling Festival (Cooper’s Hill, England) – Join the daring as they chase a 9-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down the steep Cooper’s Hill. Occurring annulay in May, the Cheese Rolling is as dangerous as it is thrilling, with participants tumbling and sprinting to catch the runaway cheese. The first person down the hill wins the cheese and, of course, bragging rights!
Carnival of Venice (Venice, Italy) – Famous for its elaborate masks, the Carnival of Venice is a visual spectacle. Participants wear intricate costumes and masks, creating a mysterious and amusing environment. The extravagance and effort put into the costumes often result in whimsical and humorous designs.
The Air Guitar World Championships (Oulu, Finland) – Participants from around the world compete to see who can perform the best air guitar routines. It’s a celebration of love for music, performance art, and humor, embracing the joy of pretending to play an invisible guitar.
Up Helly Aa (Lerwick, Shetland, Shotland) – Follow The Guizer Jarl and burn a galley! Travel back in time with Lerwick’s Viking fire festival, celebrated on the last Tuesday of January. Witness the dramatic sight of a Viking longship set ablaze after a torch-lit procession through the town. Up Helly Aa is one of the many unique festivals in Europe and a tribute to the region’s Viking past and features a night of performances, costumes, and camaraderie.
Wife Carrying World Championships (Sonkajärvi, Finland) – This quirky event involves men carrying their wives or female teammates through an obstacle course. The fastest and most skilled couple wins, and the event is filled with laughter, spills, and competitive spirit.
Batalla del Vino (Haro, Spain) – The Wine Battle sees participants throwing wine on each other, soaking everyone in red and celebrating in the streets of Haro. Held in late June, it’s a unique way to experience wine culture with a twist.
Flaming Tar Barrels (Ottery St. Mary, England) – This annual event that stands out as one of the most unique and thrilling festivals not just in Europe, but in the world. This festival is deeply rooted in tradition and takes place in the small town of Ottery St. Mary, located in Devon, England. It occurs every year on November 5th, coinciding with Guy Fawkes Night, also known as Bonfire Night.
Busójárás, (Mohács, Hungary) – The Busójárás is a one of the fascinating and unique festivals of Hungary. It is held annually in Mohács, Hungary, in February or early March. The festival is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
El Colacho, (Castrillo de Murcia, Spain) – The unique festival where the devils jump over … babies! It is celebrated annually, the Sunday following Corpus Christi.
Bog Snorkelling – Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales, United Kingdom – This very British and quirky event takes place every year in August in the smallest town in Britain. It is one of the famous and unique UK festivals.
Calcio Storico – Florence, Italy – Part football, part rugby, and part historical reenactment, Calcio Storico is a brutal and ancient game played in Florence every June. Teams dressed in medieval costumes compete in a sandy arena, combining athleticism with historical tradition. It’s a unique blend of sport and culture that you won’t want to miss.
Battaglia delle Arance (Battle of the Oranges) – Ivrea, Italy – This historic event transforms the town of Ivrea into a medieval battlefield, where teams throw oranges at each other to commemorate the town’s liberation from tyranny. Held in February or early March during the Ivrea Carnival, this festival is a vivid spectacle and a vibrant tradition. Don’t forget your red hat to signal that you’re just watching!
Europe’s bizarre and unique festivals – Join the Fun!
These events are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Europe’s quirky and unique festivals. Each one promises not only a deep dive into local traditions but also an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, excitement, and, sometimes, a bit of madness. So why wait? Plan your next European adventure around these fantastic festivals and immerse yourself in the continent’s most playful side. You’re in for some incredible stories to tell!