Unusual festivals in the world never fail to draw in large crowds. While many people are
curious to learn about the festivities, some simply want to experience an extra-ordinary
event they rarely get to see. Here are some of the world's strangest festivals:
Naked Man Festival
Also known as Hadaka-matsuri among the Japanese, the Naked Man Festival has been around for
more than 1,200 years. Only one man is assigned as the Naked Man of the festival. He then
becomes some sort of a vessel for bad luck, which is transferred when the half-naked men
touch him. Despite the traditional belief, the Naked Man is not doomed for bad luck as he
goes through a "purification ritual" as he approaches the shrine.
Tapati Festival
About 1,800 miles south of the Equator is the Eastern Island, home of the Tapati Festival.
The festival is known for its sports activities and theatrical presentations (parades with
floats, crowning of festival queen, etc.). The carnival-type activities are part of its
main attraction. For instance, one sporting event includes sliding down a cliff, wherein
the declared winner is the one who stays the longest on a log. Another good example of
such an activity is having to run around the lake with banana bunches riding over the
shoulders.
Zombie Walk
If you haven't heard of the Zombie Walk before, this is because it is an underground
activity. The event is commonly held in large cities in North America. You'll more likely
get news about it through message boards online and word of mouth. The participants have
to wear zombie costumes and, true to its name, act like zombies as they parade themselves
toward a cemetery or some public place.
Many tourists travel across the world just to witness these festivities. Aside from the
festival highlights, the spirit of the festival are felt through the warm reception of the
people.
