Food festivals are a great way to get to know a country, meet the locals, and try dishes you can’t find anywhere else.
Here are some of the world’s weirdest food festivals that will give you an experience like no other!
La Tomatina – Spain
Every last Wednesday of the year, in August, the tiny town of Buñol, Spain, hosts La Tomatina.
Thousands turn up to throw over 120 tons of ripe tomatoes at each other. Imagine the streets covered in red tomato sauce – it’s crazy, wild, and unforgettable!
Fun Fact: The festival started as a street fight in 1945. Now, it attracts around 20,000 visitors a year!
Gilroy Garlic Festival – USA
Love garlic? Then the Gilroy Garlic Festival in California is for you! They call it the “Garlic Capital of the World” and in July, they host this festival featuring garlic fries and garlic ice cream.
You should bring gum or mints – with all that garlic in the air, you’ll want fresh breath afterward.
Festival Highlight: The “Great Garlic Cook-Off” where talented chefs compete to make the best garlic dishes.
Night of the Radishes – Mexico
On December 23rd, the city of Oaxaca, Mexico, hosts the Noche de Rábanos, or the “Night of the Radishes.” Locals carve radishes into designs, animals, and famous figures.
Did You Know? The event started in 1897 as a way to attract people to the Christmas market.
Chinchilla Melon Festival – Australia
In February, the small town of Chinchilla in Queensland, Australia, becomes the “Melon Capital of the World.”
Festival-goers enjoy melon skiing and melon bungee jumping. Yes, you read that right! Also, consider wearing clothes you don’t mind getting sticky – watermelon juice is everywhere.
Stat Alert: This festival uses over 20 tons of watermelons.
Monkey Buffet Festival – Thailand
In Lopburi, Thailand, the annual Monkey Buffet Festival feeds over 4,000 kilograms of fruit, vegetables, and sweets to the town’s monkeys.
The monkeys are considered sacred and are an important part of the local culture.
Fun Fact: The event attracts thousands of tourists and celebrates the monkey’s role in local mythology.
Tip: Keep your valuables safe – these monkeys love to grab shiny things!
BugFest – USA
BugFest in Raleigh, NC is all about insects in all forms. Brave attendees can try mealworm hush puppies and cricket cookies. It’s a great way to learn about sustainable protein options!
Did You Know? 80% of the world’s population eats insects as part of their diet.
World Grits Festival – USA
In the tiny town of St. George, SC they have a grits festival every April. From eating contests to “rolling in the grits” events, it’s all about the grits.
Fun Fact: Grits were invented by Indigenous people in North America.
Quick Comparison Table of Festivals
| Festival | Location | Month | Main Attraction |
| La Tomatina | Buñol, Spain | August | Tomato throwing fight |
| Gilroy Garlic Festival | Gilroy, USA | July | Garlic-infused foods |
| Night of the Radishes | Oaxaca, Mexico | December | Radish carvings |
| Chinchilla Melon Fest | Queensland, Australia | February | Melon skiing & games |
| Monkey Buffet Festival | Lopburi, Thailand | November | Buffet for monkeys |
| BugFest | Raleigh, USA | September | Insect-based foods |
| World Grits Festival | St. George, USA | April | Grits-based activities |
Tips for Attending Unique Food Festivals
Attending unique food festivals can be an adventure! Here are a few simple tips to make the most of your trip and stay safe while you’re at it.
- Plan ahead: Many of these festivals are in tiny towns with limited lodging. Book early!
- Stay safe online: When buying tickets or booking accommodations, use Surfshark VPN to keep your banking info safe.
- Pack light: Many of these festivals involve messy foods or activities. Bring a small bag with what you need and wear comfy clothes.
- Respect the culture: Festivals often have deep roots. Follow local customs and ask locals for advice.
Conclusion
Food festivals are a great way to see the world from a different angle. It’s not just about food; it’s a peek into a community’s soul.
Whether you’re covered in tomatoes in Spain or carving radishes in Mexico, these festivals are unforgettable.
My Take: Trying foods you wouldn’t eat at home might seem weird, but it’s worth it for the experience! Plus it’s a great way to meet people and learn about other cultures.
Weird food festivals are about adventure, not just eating. So pack your bags, grab some mints (especially if you’re going to Gilroy), and get ready to eat around the world!
