10 Weird Cultures Around the World That Will Shock You!
One of the best parts of traveling is discovering different cultures. While some traditions might feel normal to locals, they can seem really strange to outsiders. Every country has its own customs, festivals, and ways of life that can leave visitors shocked, amused, or simply amazed. As someone who travels a lot, I have come across some truly weird and fascinating cultural practices. Let’s take a trip around the world to explore some of the strangest customs and traditions you may not believe exist!
1. The Baby Jumping Festival – Spain
Yes, you read that right! In the small Spanish village of Castrillo de Murcia, there is a festival called El Colacho, where men dressed as devils jump over babies lying on mattresses in the streets. This strange but traditional event is believed to cleanse newborns of original sin and protect them from evil spirits. It has been practiced for over 400 years! If you ever find yourself in Spain in June, this is one festival you won’t forget!
2. Toe Wrestling – England
Move over arm wrestling… England has its own unique version: toe wrestling! This bizarre sport started in the 1970s and has become an annual championship event. The rules are simple: competitors must remove their shoes and socks, lock toes with their opponent, and try to pin the other person’s foot down. It might sound silly, but the competition gets intense! Who knew toes could be so competitive?
3. The Hanging Coffins – Philippines & China
In some parts of the Philippines and China, certain ethnic groups practice the ancient tradition of hanging coffins. Instead of burying their dead underground, they place wooden coffins high up on cliffs and caves. The belief is that the higher the dead are placed, the closer they are to heaven. While this might seem eerie to some, for these communities, it is an honored tradition that has been carried on for centuries.
4. The Monkey Buffet Festival – Thailand
Imagine a giant feast, but for monkeys! In the town of Lopburi, Thailand, thousands of monkeys are treated to an extravagant buffet of fruits, vegetables, and sweets. This annual festival is meant to honor the monkeys, as they are believed to bring good luck to the town. Tourists flock here every year to see monkeys happily feasting on massive piles of food. Just make sure they don’t steal your snacks!
5. The Wife Carrying Championship – Finland
In Finland, men literally carry their wives through an obstacle course to win a prize. The Wife Carrying Championship is a real sport where husbands sling their wives over their shoulders and race through mud, water, and hurdles. The best part? The winner gets their wife’s weight in beer! Whether you’re a competitor or just a spectator, this event is definitely a sight to see.
6. The Kanamara Matsuri – Japan
Japan is known for its unusual festivals, but Kanamara Matsuri, or the “Festival of the Steel Phallus,” might be the strangest. Every April, people parade through the streets carrying giant pink phallic statues, candy, and decorations. While it might look funny, the festival has deep cultural significance, celebrating fertility, safe childbirth, and protection against diseases. It’s also a major attraction for tourists looking to experience Japan’s quirky side.
7. Finger Cutting Ritual – Indonesia
The Dani tribe in Papua, Indonesia, has one of the most painful and extreme cultural traditions. When a loved one dies, women in the tribe cut off the tips of their fingers as a way to express grief and honor the deceased. Though the practice has been banned, some elders still follow this old tradition. It’s definitely one of the most shocking customs in the world.
8. Polterabend – Germany
Germans love a good wedding celebration, but before the wedding, they have a Polterabend … a wild tradition where family and friends smash plates, dishes, and even toilets in front of the couple’s house. The newlyweds then have to clean up the mess together. The idea is that this act will teach them how to work as a team, preparing them for the challenges of married life. Sounds fun, but also a lot of work!
9. Cheese Rolling Festival – England
Another bizarre English tradition, the Cheese Rolling Festival takes place in Gloucester every year. A huge wheel of cheese is rolled down a steep hill, and dozens of competitors chase after it, often tumbling and crashing down in the process. The first person to grab the cheese wins! This tradition has been around for centuries and continues to attract thrill-seekers from all over the world.
10. Turning the Dead – Madagascar
In Madagascar, the Famadihana festival, or the “Turning of the Bones,” is a unique funeral tradition where families dig up the remains of their ancestors, wrap them in fresh cloth, and dance with the corpses. This ritual, performed every few years, is a way to show respect, love, and connection to the dead. While it may seem strange to outsiders, it is a meaningful and joyous occasion for Malagasy people.
My Thoughts
Cultures around the world have traditions that might seem weird to some but make perfect sense to others. Whether it’s jumping over babies in Spain, wrestling with toes in England, or feeding thousands of monkeys in Thailand, these traditions remind us how diverse and fascinating the world is. As a traveler, I love experiencing these unique customs firsthand, and I encourage everyone to embrace the weirdness when they travel. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll find yourself rolling down a hill after a wheel of cheese!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are these traditions still practiced today?
Yes, most of these traditions are still celebrated today, though some have been modified to fit modern times.
2. Can tourists participate in these events?
Absolutely! Many of these festivals welcome tourists and even encourage them to join in the fun (just be sure to follow local customs and respect the culture).
3. Which country has the weirdest traditions?
It’s hard to say! Every country has its own unique and strange traditions. Japan, Thailand, and England are often known for their unusual festivals.
4. Is it okay to take photos at these events?
In most cases, yes, but always ask for permission before taking photos, especially during religious or sensitive ceremonies.
5. What’s the best way to experience these cultures?
Travel with an open mind, respect local traditions, and try to participate in cultural experiences whenever possible. Learning about new customs is one of the best parts of traveling!
