1. Wife Carrying Championship, Finland
Topping the list is Finland’s Wife Carrying Championship, where couples compete in a race with the winning prize being the wife’s weight in beer. This event has evolved into a two-day festival featuring karaoke, markets, and activities for children, making it a fun and family-friendly outing. The competition takes place near Rovaniemi Airport in July 2025, offering an exciting and unique experience for those who attend.
2. Fierljeppen, Netherlands
Another favorite is Fierljeppen, a traditional sport in the Friesland province of the Netherlands. Translating to “far-leaping,” this sport involves participants attempting to jump over a water body using a pole. Held annually from May to September, Fierljeppen is a thrilling event that showcases the athleticism and daring of its competitors. The closest major airport for those interested in witnessing this spectacle is Amsterdam Schiphol.
3. Concurs de Castille, Spain
Spain’s Concurs de Castille is a human tower contest held in Reus each October. Teams compete to build the highest and most stable human towers, with children scaling the structure to plant a flag at the top. This event is a testament to teamwork and strength and is a fascinating display of cultural tradition. Visitors can easily reach the event via Reus Airport.
4. Marathon du Medoc, France
For those who enjoy a blend of fitness and indulgence, the Marathon du Medoc in France is a must-see. This 26.2-mile race through scenic vineyards requires participants to run in fancy dress while sampling 23 glasses of wine and various gourmet treats like oysters, foie gras, and cheese. The event, held near Bordeaux Airport in September, offers a unique combination of athletic challenge and culinary delight.
5. Coopers Hill Cheese Rolling, UK
One of the UK’s most famous and eccentric events, the Coopers Hill Cheese Rolling, involves participants chasing a wheel of cheese down a steep hill. The winner takes home the cheese, and the event, which has been held since the early 1800s, continues to attract thrill-seekers and spectators alike. This annual competition takes place near Bristol Airport in May.
6. Haggis Hurling, Scotland
In Scotland, the Haggis Hurling contest sees competitors climb atop a platform and throw a haggis—a boiled sheep’s stomach stuffed with various ingredients—as far as possible. This event, rich in Scottish tradition, is held near Glasgow Airport in June and is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing unique Scottish sports.
7. Mud Olympics, Germany
Germany’s Mud Olympics, held on the banks of the Elbe River, feature games like football and handball played in the mud, along with a long-distance rubber boot toss. This event, which has been running since 1978, offers a muddy but entertaining day out and is accessible from Hamburg International Airport in August.
8. Hobby Horse Championship, Finland
Finland makes the list again with its Hobby Horse Championship, an event that has recently gained popularity on social media. Participants, mostly young people, compete in various disciplines while riding hobby horses. This charming and somewhat whimsical competition takes place near Rovaniemi Airport in June.
9. Air Guitar Championships, Finland
Another Finnish event, the Air Guitar World Championship, has been promoting world peace through the freedom of expression since 1996. Participants put on energetic performances, pretending to play guitar to their favorite tunes. This quirky and fun event is also held near Rovaniemi Airport in June.
10. Turkish Oil Wrestling, Turkey
Rounding out the list is Turkey’s oldest sport, the Turkish Oil Wrestling tournament, which has been held annually since 1360. Competitors, covered in oil, wrestle to get their opponent into a position where their belly button faces the sky. The winner is awarded a gold belt and the title of Başpehlivan, or head wrestler. This historic event is held near Istanbul Airport in July.
