1. UFO Festival – Roswell, New Mexico
Why celebrate it: The truth is out there.
Roswell leans into its extraterrestrial reputation with this annual event. Think alien costume contests, “out of this world” parades, and endless UFO-themed fun. Whether you’re a true believer or just along for the ride, it’s a close encounter you won’t forget.
2. Spam Jam – Austin, Minnesota
Why celebrate it: Because Spam deserves respect.
As the birthplace of Spam, this small Minnesota town celebrates the canned meat with cook-offs, a Spam-eating contest, and themed merchandise. Love it or hate it, you can’t deny Spam’s iconic status.
3. International Hair Freezing Contest – Takhini Hot Springs, Yukon (close enough to Alaska!)
Why celebrate it: Why not turn winter into art?
Alright, this one’s technically Canadian but a stone’s throw from Alaska, so it counts. Participants dip their heads in hot springs, then let the frigid air sculpt their hair into wild frozen styles. It’s part competition, part art show, and completely bonkers.
4. Cow Chip Throwing Contest – Beaver, Oklahoma
Why celebrate it: Because why not throw poop?
This festival makes a game out of tossing dried cow patties for distance. It started as a frontier-era boredom buster and turned into a cherished tradition. And no, it doesn’t smell—once they’re dried, they’re basically frisbees.
5. Turkey Testicle Festival – Huntley, Illinois
Why celebrate it: Two words: Midwest pride.
This one puts a Thanksgiving spin on things. Thousands gather for this annual bash featuring live music, drinks, and—you guessed it—deep-fried turkey testicles. It’s bizarre but surprisingly fun.
6. Underwater Music Festival – Looe Key Reef, Florida
Why celebrate it: It’s for the fish, too!
This underwater concert raises awareness for marine conservation while giving divers and snorkelers the chance to groove out under the sea. Musicians in mermaid costumes serenade swimmers with ocean-inspired tunes. The reef becomes a dance floor—just add flippers!
7. Woolly Worm Festival – Banner Elk, North Carolina
Why celebrate it: Woolly worms are weather forecasters!
Legend has it these fuzzy caterpillars can predict winter weather based on their stripes. The festival features woolly worm races, local crafts, and plenty of small-town charm. Science may disagree, but the fun is undeniable.
8. Frozen Dead Guy Days – Nederland, Colorado
Why celebrate it: Why NOT party with a frozen grandpa?
This wacky festival honors a cryogenically frozen man stored in a local shed. Events include coffin races, icy turkey bowling, and a “polar plunge” for the brave. It’s weird, morbid, and impossibly fun.
9. Testicle Festival – Deerfield, Michigan
Why celebrate it: It’s a delicacy somewhere, right?
Affectionately called “Testy Festy,” this event is all about fried bull testicles, a Midwestern delicacy. It’s a chance for people to laugh, enjoy live music, and dare their taste buds. It’s weird, sure, but also oddly communal—bonding over shared plates of deep-fried daring.
10. Tunarama Festival – Port Lincoln, Australia (close to Oregon’s Tuna Toss origin!)
Why celebrate it: Tossing tuna is surprisingly athletic.
Wait, Australia? True, but Oregon was the first to host tuna-throwing contests! At Tunarama, people hurl hefty tuna as far as possible. It’s a reminder that even fishing towns can find bizarre ways to stay entertained.
11. Voodoo Festival – St. Louis Cemetery, Louisiana
Why celebrate it: Because culture is spooky and beautiful.
This unique festival celebrates voodoo heritage with music, dance, and rituals. Attendees learn about voodoo’s rich history while honoring the community’s ancestors. It’s as mysterious as it is moving.
12. Humungus Fungus Fest – Crystal Falls, Michigan
Why celebrate it: Mushrooms are magic (and massive).
Crystal Falls is home to one of the world’s largest living fungi—a single, sprawling organism that covers 37 acres! The festival includes mushroom hunts, fun runs, and even a mushroom-pizza cook-off.
13. Roadkill Cook-Off – Marlinton, West Virginia
Why celebrate it: Because roadkill is free meat!
At this quirky festival, creative chefs whip up dishes using—you guessed it—roadkill. Don’t worry, it’s more tongue-in-cheek than literal. Locals love it for the camaraderie and the chance to show off their wild culinary skills. Think “Armadillo Alfredo” or “Bumper Banquet” for some unforgettable eats.
