Evander Jones
Small towns across the U.S. are home to some of the most eccentric and delightful yearly events that showcase local charm and creativity. These celebrations invite everyone to enjoy unique traditions, unusual competitions, and unforgettable experiences. Here are 15 offbeat festivals that will make you fall in love with America’s small towns.
Outhouse Races (Conconully, Washington)
Conconully puts a whole new spin on racing by sending outhouses on wheels down Main Street! Teams race these homemade rolling restrooms for glory, drawing locals and curious visitors. It’s quirky, competitive, and undeniably hilarious, proving there’s nothing too odd to become a tradition in this small Washington town.
Roadkill Cook-Off (Marlinton, West Virginia)
The Roadkill Cook-Off in Marlinton, West Virginia, serves up some of the wildest dishes you’ll ever taste! Honoring Appalachian creativity, chefs prepare meals inspired by animals commonly found on the roadside. From squirrel stew to venison chili, the festival brings adventurous eaters together for a wild and flavorful enjoyment.
Grape Stomp Festival (Sonoma, California)
Get your feet dirty at Sonoma’s Grape Stomp Festival, where participants squash grapes the old-fashioned way: by stomping them! The festival is an eccentric homage to winemaking traditions that offer plenty of laughs, a bit of competition, and a chance to see the grape harvest up close with juicy results.
Spam Jam (Waikiki, Hawaii)
Spam Jam celebrates Hawaii’s unique love for Spam, the canned meat product with an island twist. Festival goers can sample creative Spam-based dishes while enjoying live music and entertainment. With Spam tacos, sushi, and even Spam ice cream, it’s a one-of-a-kind event that pays tribute to a beloved local staple.
Giant Omelet Celebration (Abbeville, Louisiana)
Egg lovers, rejoice! Each year, Abbeville whips up a 5,000-egg omelet in a giant skillet during its Giant Omelet Celebration. A French legend inspires this peculiar tradition and brings the community together for a good time. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a renewed appreciation for breakfast!
World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast (Manteca, California)
Join thousands of breakfast lovers at Manteca’s yearly pancake breakfast, where they flip and serve over 100,000 pancakes. There’s endless syrup and toppings—guests can indulge in their wildest pancake fantasies here. This heartwarming community event brings people together for good food, laughter, and, of course, the chance to taste the world’s biggest pancakes!
Great American Pumpkin Patch (Lanesboro, Minnesota)
Every fall, Lanesboro transforms into a pumpkin lover’s paradise during the Great American Pumpkin Patch Festival. You can enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin-themed games while searching for the perfect gourd. A plethora of autumn activities and native artisans make the event a delightful way to celebrate the harvest season in the Midwest.
Nashville’s Tomato Art Fest (Nashville, Tennessee)
Here’s to all things tomato! The Nashville’s Tomato Art Fest is quite a colorful and unconventional affair. This two-day festival features tomato-themed art, live music, contests, and delicious food. The event’s activities, like the tomato wrestling competition and the best tomato costume contest, make it ripe for fun and creativity.
World’s Largest Crappie (Camden, Arkansas)
Fishing enthusiasts unite at Camden’s World’s Largest Crappie Festival, celebrating the popular fish with fishing contests, live music, and indigenous vendors. It’s a family-friendly event that attracts thousands of people who enjoy good food, fishing tales, and the chance to compete for the biggest crappie catch. It’s a perfect time for everyone!
World’s Largest Fish Fry (Paris, Tennessee)
Paris takes fish frying to a new level with its World’s Largest Fish Fry. Serving over 12,000 pounds of catfish, this small Tennessee town draws visitors ready to indulge in fried fish and southern hospitality. It’s a charming and flavorful way to experience small-town life at its quirkiest.
