If there’s one thing that’s understood throughout all cultures around the world, it’s the importance of a good party. Here’s a look at some crazy parties around the world.
La Tomatina
Valencia, Spain
On the last Wednesday of each August, locals and tourists in Bunol, a city in Valencia, Spain, wield tomatoes as weapons in a citywide food fight. The festivities start in the morning with the palo hamón, where participants try to climb a greasy pole to reach a ham that rests on top. Once the ham falls to the crowd below, a shot rings out to signal the start of the food fight – and all bets are off. No one is safe as tomatoes are hurled and the streets flow red with tomato juice in this annual fun festival.
Ivrea Carnival
Italy
If you think tomatoes are too soft a projectile for an outdoor food fight, you may want to head to Italy for the annual Ivrea Carnival. This party is better known as the “Battle of the Oranges,” where nine teams represent “revolutionaries” and launch a citrus assault against “tyrants.” Spectators can stay high and dry behind nets or get in on the action on the battleground, though a revolutionary hat is recommended so as not to be mistaken for a tyrant.
Full Moon Party
Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand
Every full moon brings a night of beachside debauchery to the Thai island of Ko Pha Ngan. Tens of thousands of tourists gather under every full moon for festivities that last well into the next morning. On the agenda? Buckets of alcohol, music, dancing, fire rope jumping and drinking. Lots of drinking.
Burning Man
Black Rock Desert, Nevada, United States
For eight days every August, the otherwise barren Black Rock Desert becomes a makeshift commune where just about anything goes. The annual experiment in freedom of expression and self-reliance results in larger-than-life art installations, burning effigies and plenty of public nudity.
Russefeiring
Norway
Every May, Norway’s graduating high school seniors don colorful overalls and take to Oslo’s Tryvann Park for 17 days of shenanigans. More than 10,000 seniors – and party-seeking tourists – partake in this traditional graduation ceremony, where alcohol-fueled practical jokes are par for the course.
(Main image: shortCHINESEguy)
