9 surprising Fun Activities Enjoyed in Other Countries

Save to Find It Later!

9 surprising Fun Activities Enjoyed in Other Countries

Around the world, people enjoy various unique and often surprising leisure activities. These activities reflect cultural traditions, natural landscapes, and the inventive spirit of their countries.

Let’s explore some of these distinctive and engaging hobbies that continue to draw interest and participation globally.

Finland: Wife-carrying competitions

In Finland, wife-carrying competitions are a highlight of the summer. Competitors race while carrying their partners through an obstacle course with water and hurdles. Originating from a playful local history of stealing wives from neighboring villages, the contest now attracts international attention and competitors, emphasizing fun and teamwork.

Australia: Camel races

Camel races in Australia offer a distinct twist on traditional racing events. Held in the vast and scenic outback, these races feature camels instead of horses and attract spectators with their unpredictability and excitement. This sport showcases the adventurous Australian spirit and provides a unique experience for both participants and audiences.

Japan: Pachinko

Pachinko, a game similar to a vertical pinball machine, is a massively popular pastime in Japan. Players aim to control the speed of balls that cascade down through a dense forest of pins, hoping they will enter desirable slots to win prizes. The game is both a leisure activity and a form of gambling, deeply embedded in Japanese culture.

United Kingdom: Bog snorkeling

The UK hosts the unusual sport of bog snorkeling, where participants swim through water-filled peat bogs wearing snorkels and flippers. The challenge is to complete two consecutive lengths of a 60-yard trench cut through a peat bog, in the shortest time possible, without using conventional swimming strokes. It’s as challenging as it is amusing.

New Zealand: Zorbing

Zorbing is an exhilarating activity from New Zealand where participants roll down hills inside a giant, transparent, plastic ball. The activity takes advantage of New Zealand’s hilly landscapes, offering thrilling rides that are both safe and unforgettable. It’s a fun way to experience the country’s natural beauty with a twist.

Italy: Calcio Storico

Calcio Storico is a traditional Italian game that dates back to the 16th century, combining elements of soccer, rugby, and wrestling. Played annually in Florence, this intense game is known for its historical costumes and almost no-holds-barred rules, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and the spirited nature of its people.

Spain: Building human towers or ‘castells’

In Catalonia, Spain, the building of ‘castells’ or human towers is a long-standing tradition. Teams, called ‘colles’, compete to build the tallest and most complex tower. This activity requires immense teamwork, balance, and courage and is a significant cultural event that brings communities together.

Netherlands: Canal jumping or ‘Fierljeppen’

‘Fierljeppen’ is a traditional Dutch sport involving jumping over canals using a long pole. Competitors sprint towards the canal and leap, using the pole to vault over the water. This sport not only displays physical skill but also connects participants with the watery landscape of the Netherlands.

Canada: Ice canoeing

Ice canoeing in Canada is a thrilling winter sport where teams navigate canoes over and through river ice. This challenging activity requires strength, endurance, and teamwork, reflecting Canadians’ adaptation to and appreciation of their cold climate. It’s an invigorating experience that tests the limits of both individuals and teams.