Every country is born out of traditions and celebrations that mirror its heritage. However, some existing long-standing festivities spark bewilderment or wonder. As they always say, you learn something new every day. Listed below are some cultural traditions you might not have heard of. Take a look!

Bride kidnapping (Kyrgyzstan)

It’s hard to fathom that a practice like this exists. In rural Kyrgyzstan, a survey suggests that one in three marriages starts with kidnapping. Bride kidnappings are usually planned and target young women. In some instances, the man is a total stranger to the woman he wants to “marry.”

The “bride” will be taken to the man’s home after the kidnapping, where she’ll be persuaded to agree to the marriage. This practice has been deemed illegal since 1994, but some older Kyrgyz people think bride kidnapping is a harmless tradition.

Baby tossing (India)

Baby tossing is a centuries-old practice where less than two-year-old infants are thrown off a shrine’s roof, with a large bed sheet below ready to catch them. Legend has it this ritual gives babies long life and protection from harm. But babies are delicate beings, and one wrong fall could lead to grave injuries — so much for a long life. India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has already ordered to stop this practice, but some say it’s still prevalent in rural areas.

The Carnival of Ivrea (Italy)

Also known as The Battle of the Oranges, this tradition dates back to the medieval era that celebrates the freedom of townsfolk from an evil duke. It takes place in the Northern Italian city of Ivrea every February, where over 700 tons of oranges are used and celebrated for three days. 

Polterabend (Germany)

Polterabend is a German pre-wedding ritual that commonly takes place in front of the bride’s house. Families and friends of the couple gather ’round to break and smash every porcelain kitchenware or tableware to foster good fortune. The messier, the more fortune! After the ritual, the couple must clean the mess as a symbol that they can surpass whatever adversity lies ahead.

Kanamara Matsuri (Japan)

Now, listen. Japan might be a conservative nation in some aspects, but it also knows how to loosen up. Kanamara Matsuri is an annual spring festival held in April that celebrates sex, fertility, and sex work. During the festival, you’ll often see giant props of male genitalia paraded on the streets. And yes, you can buy phallus-themed merchandise, too!

La Tomatina (Spain)

If Italy loves a good war of oranges, Spain enjoys an intense tomato fight. Celebrated in the town of Buñol during August, La Tomatina attracts thousands of people to throw tomatoes at each other for an hour. It’s so messy that some establishments use plastic covers to avoid big tomato debris. There are also paella contests and tomato fireworks!

Cinnamon Shower (Denmark)

If you live in Denmark and you’re still single by the age of 25, expect a shower of cinnamon from head to toe. Sometimes, people throw eggs, too, for added impact. This long-standing tradition was inspired by spice sellers who traveled around the world, as the nature of their job made it nearly impossible to settle down. 

Lopburi Monkey Festival (Thailand)

Aside from stunning temples and spectacular islands, Thailand is also known for its Lopburi Monkey Festival. It’s a celebration that usually happens on the last Sunday of November, where macaque monkeys feast on fruits, vegetables, and even junk food. Festival attendees are also treated to music and dance performances. Lopburi Monkey Festival pays homage to the macaque monkeys for attracting tourists.

Do you know any other weird or unusual traditions and celebrations?

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