Abbots Bromley Horn Dance
Twelve dancers carry sets of reindeer antlers (carbon-dated to over 1,000 years old) through the streets of Abbots Bromley. Accompanied by a Fool, a Hobby Horse, a Bowman, and a Maid Marian figure playing a triangle. The dance dates to at least the 11th century and is one of the oldest surviving folk traditions in Europe.
More weirdness you might like
World Gurning Championships
Competitors pull the most grotesque face they can manage while sticking their head through a horse collar (known as a 'braffin'). The tradition dates to 1267 as part of the Egremont Crab Fair. Judges look for the most hideous distortion of features. Dentures are often removed for maximum effect.
fireUp Helly Aa
The Lerwick Up Helly Aa is Europe's largest fire festival. A thousand-strong torchlit procession of Vikings in full regalia marches through Shetland's capital before hurling their torches into a replica longship, burning it to ashes. The night ends with ceilidh dancing until dawn. It's dark, it's loud, it smells of paraffin.
fireTar Barrel Rolling
Locals set fire to full-sized tar barrels and carry them through the narrow streets of Ottery St Mary on their shoulders, before rolling them down the hill. Participants wear leather gloves and asbestos aprons. Children get their own smaller barrels. The town smells of burning tar for days.