7 Bizarre Customs You Won’t Believe Exist

7 Bizarre Customs You Won’t Believe Exist

La Tomatina photo by flydime

Running of the Bulls photo by Atkins525

Famadihana photo by MPMF24

Ever wonder how cultures across the globe celebrate traditions that may seem strange to outsiders? You’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves intrigued by unique practices but unsure of their meaning or significance.

You, the curious explorer of culture, have likely asked, “What’s behind these customs?” I’m here to guide you through some of the most fascinating and surprising traditions from around the world, with insights to help you understand their deeper meanings.

Here’s the plan:

  • Discover seven bizarre customs
  • Learn about their history and significance
  • See how they shape identities and values

Keep reading to explore these unique rituals and uncover the different ways humanity celebrates life.

1. Toe Wrestling (England)

Toe Wrestling photo by Adrian Hon

Toe wrestling is a quirky sport that started in Staffordshire, England, in 1976. Two people lock toes and try to pin each other’s foot in three rounds. The World Toe Wrestling Championships were created, attracting competitors from many places.

It began at the Royal Oak in Wetton and moved to Bentley Brook Inn in 2003. What started as a local pastime has become a unique and fun sport enjoyed by many.

This video is made by Britclip

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2. La Tomatina (Spain)

La Tomatina photo by flydime

La Tomatina is a fun festival in Buñol, Spain, held every year on the last Wednesday of August. Thousands of people, especially young people, throw tomatoes at each other in the streets. It started in the 1940s, and over 20,000 people join in.

They wear old clothes and goggles for protection. The day includes music, parades, and lots of excitement, making it a popular tourist event.

This video is made by Business Insider

3. Crying Weddings (China)

This video is made by The Nation Bangkok

Crying weddings are a tradition of the Tujia people in China. The bride cries daily for a month before her wedding to show happiness through tears.

Family members, especially the mother, join in, creating a “crying song.” It’s a way to express emotions and joy for the bride’s new life. This tradition shows how different cultures celebrate marriage.

4. Finger Cutting (Papua New Guinea)

This video is made by G.k & Facts

Finger cutting is a mourning practice of the Dani tribe in Papua, Indonesia. Family members cut off a finger to show grief when someone dies. This tradition, called “Iki Palek,” also happens during events like divorce or marriage.

It represents emotional pain and helps them remember the deceased. While the practice is fading, most people still recognize its strong cultural meaning.

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5. The Running of the Bulls (Spain)

The Running of the Bulls photo by Bernard bill5

The Running of the Bulls, or Encierro, is a popular event in Pamplona, Spain, during the San Fermín Festival in July. People run with bulls along a 875-yard route for 15 to 20 seconds. This tradition, which started in the 14th century, is part of Spanish culture.

The festival also includes bullfighting and religious ceremonies. The event is exciting but dangerous due to the unpredictable bulls, and it attracts many tourists.

This video is made by NBC News

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6. Monkey Buffet Festival (Thailand)

Monkey Buffet Festival photo by Mr.Peerapong Prasutr

The Monkey Buffet Festival is held every year in Lopburi, Thailand. It celebrates monkeys and their importance to the local culture. During the festival, over 3,000 monkeys are given a large buffet of fruits, vegetables, and treats.

The event attracts many tourists who enjoy watching the monkeys eat. It’s a fun way to show respect for the animals and bring the community together.

This video is made by South China Morning Post

7. Famadihana (Madagascar)

Famadihana photo by Smarteeee

Famadihana, or “turning of the bones,” is a unique tradition in Madagascar. Families dig up their ancestors’ remains, wrap them in fresh cloth, and dance with them. It is a celebration of life and a way to honor ancestors.

Rich man often host grand ceremonies to show respect for their lineage. People share stories and strengthen community bonds. While the practice is still strong in rural areas, it is fading due to modern changes and costs. It shows how different cultures remember and respect their ancestors.

This video is made by Guy Shachar (‫גיא שחר‬‎)

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7 Bizarre Customs You Won’t Believe Exist: A Recap

Toe Wrestling Trophies photo by BigToeWrestler

These seven customs show how different cultures celebrate life, honor traditions, and express emotions in unique ways. While some may seem strange, they reveal the diversity of human practices.

Beyond these examples, other crazy festivals like Throwing Babies in India, Bonfire Night in England, and Kanamara Matsuri in Japan further illustrate the fascinating and varied ways people around the world honor their beliefs and traditions.

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