Oil Wrestling: Edirne, Turkey
Around three hours away from Istanbul and near the Bulgarian and Greek borders, the stunning city of Edirne in Turkey hosts the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival every year! Dating back to the Ottoman era, the festival is steeped in tradition from the drum and shawm (woodwind instrument) displays during the opening ceremony to the slathering of contestants in olive oil before they enter the Field of Contest, which ups the stakes for both contestants and spectators! Locals and visitors alike gather for this UNESCO heritage event for its local food, traditional dance displays and music. Afterwards, locals and visitors alike gather to party on the Tunca and Meriç Rivers.
Tbourida: El Jadida, Morocco
Every October, the port city of El Jadida comes alive with the Salon du Cheval d'El Jadida – one of Morocco's most famous horse-riding events. Though there are many inspiring displays and competitons, the Grand Prize of Thourida stands out as groups of 15-25 riders perform synchronised acrobatic drills and musket-firing, honouring 16th-century Moroccan military parades. El Jadida is a World Heritage Site, rich in history and culture, and just three hours from the well-known Marrakech or an hour from Casablanca, two of Morocco’s most popular destinations!