People around the world come up with weird ways, from throwing tomatoes at one another to beating locks so they “poop.” These strange customs are out there and just sound surreal; however, they constitute part of the great tapestry of cultures in the world.
It is just great to travel and find some peculiar and strange customs quite different from ours, even though some may sound too outlandish to be true.
1. Christmas with Krampus in the Czech Republic
While Christmas is often associated with festive cheer and snow, some traditions take a darker turn. In Austria, the Czech Republic, and Romania, Krampus, a fearsome creature, joins Saint Nicholas to punish misbehaving children during the holiday season.
2. Job Security with a Twist in Japan
In Japan, employees facing termination benefit from substantial compensation packages that can render them financially dependent. Instead of direct firing, companies might confine employees to perform undesirable tasks to encourage resignation, making this an unusual approach to job security.
3. Polterabend in Germany
In Germany, the Polterabend tradition involves breaking ceramics and other items before a wedding. The bride and groom are required to clean up the mess, symbolizing the importance of working through difficulties in marriage, despite the seemingly chaotic pre-wedding ritual.
4. Spitting on the Bride in Greece
In Greece, spitting on the newlywed bride is considered a positive gesture meant to ward off evil spirits, though it has become a figurative act with guests making spitting noises rather than actual spitting. This practice extends to baptisms as well, symbolizing good luck.
5. Bone Soup in Venezuela
Among the Yanomami tribe in Venezuela and Brazil, the practice of making soup from the bones and ashes of deceased relatives is believed to help them find peace in the afterlife. Although this ritual might seem unusual to outsiders, it holds cultural significance for the tribe.
6. Infant Dropping in Indi
In Karnataka, India, a ritual involves dropping infants from the roof of the Sri Santeswar temple, where they are caught in a blanket by people below. This practice is performed as a symbol of faith and devotion.
7. Red Ink Taboos in South Korea
In South Korea, red ink is reserved for writing the names of deceased individuals. This tradition stems from the belief that using red ink for living people is inauspicious, making it a peculiar custom.
8. Office Toothbrushing in Brazil
In Brazil, it’s common for employees to brush their teeth at work after lunch. Many carry toothbrushes and toothpaste with them and even find mouthwashes available in restaurants, reflecting a unique aspect of Brazilian work culture.
9. Cemetery Socializing in Denmark
In Denmark, cemeteries are not just places of mourning but also popular spots for socializing. Often transformed into serene areas with lakes and meadows, these graveyards serve as communal spaces where people gather and enjoy leisure activities.