Bizarre summer vacation events in the U.S.

Most people, when they go trekking across the U.S. come vacation time, tend to prefer to visit the standard places.  National parks, amusement parks, wonders of nature and great festivals and celebrations are common places to find people from all over the country and beyond congregating and relaxing.  Some folks, however, have a taste for the unusual and may not be completely satisfied at the end of a vacation unless they have gotten in some quality time with the more bizarre and unusual attractions of the country.  Being that I happen to be one of those people, I decided to put together a list of a few U.S. attractions that you may not have heard of before.

They are certainly unusual, but they are also potentially entertaining, if you happen to be that certain someone with an interest.  In my humble opinion, any-and-all who plan on making a trip across the country should have a list like this one, of those unique places on the way from here to there where a day or two can be taken in a less traditional manner.  This list is geared to accommodate summer travels, but these things can be found taking place all year long, as long as you know where to look.

1) O.Henry Pun-Off World Championships

Austin, Texas - May 18, 2013

If you’re a fan of English language acrobatics, then the Pun-Off World Championships may be right up your alley.  This one-day even features people with agile tongues and sharp wits coming together to prove their linguistic mastery.  To those that appreciate this rather unusual art form, it can be a great way to spend a day.  If puns make you crazy, however, it’s probably one to avoid.

2) Moon Amtrak

Laguna Niguel, California - Second Saturday of July

The Moon Amtrak event is, just like the title suggests, a gathering together of people so that they may moon passing trains.  Started as a drunken bet, it has since grown and now hundreds of people show up each year to bare their bottoms at those riding the trains on this special day.  You can either choose to grab a spot on the fence and join the mooners or take a ride on the train to see if from the other end.  This event has become quite popular, however, so train tickets on this day sell out months in advance.

3) BagelFest

Mattoon, Illinois - July

Put on by the famous purveyors of the Lender’s Bagels brand name, this is truly a celebration worthy of bagel lovers.  In addition to having enough bagels for everyone, there are musical and other performances, a beer tent, a parade and even a beauty contest.  It’s just like what one might expect from any other festival, but with a bagel-centric theme.

4) The 127 Corridor Sale 

Kentucky, Alabama, Tennessee - August 1-4, 2013 

The 127 Corridor Sale is, essentially, the world’s largest yard sale/swap meet.  Stretching along the Highway 127 Corridor, this trail of vendors covers nearly 700 miles and travels the distance through three states.  More than 100,000 people show up every year to sell, browse and cut deals, and it just gets bigger every year.

5) National Hobo Convention

Britt, Iowa - August 8-11, 2013

During this weekend in August, the travelling subculture known as hobos come from all over the country to celebrate their alternative choice in lifestyles.  A forest of tents raises and visitors can enjoy watching the numerous impromptu musical performances, get in on an auction or two of some strange and unusual items, or watch some hobo theater, a not-for-kids event that demonstrates the sometimes dramatic life of these travelers. 

6) Old Fiddlers Convention 

Galax, Virginia - August 5-10, 2013

The Old Fiddlers Convention has a long history dating all the way back to 1935.  Over the years it has grown and now more than 50,000 people take part every year.  This convention brings together a proper collection of old-timey instruments, from fiddles to banjos to mandolins and more, and the experts that play them - many of them faces quite famous in their niches.  This isn’t your typical music festival, but it certainly isn’t amateur hour either.

7) Pyrotechnics Guild International Convention 

Slippery Rock, PA - August 10-16, 2013

This convention is, to put it simply, a week-long celebration of things that explode.  Some of the best in the fireworks business come together to talk trade and put on displays for the public.  Almost every night hosts a public showing, but if you want to get in on the seminars and workshops and other special events you’ll have to get a proper membership.

8) Internet Cat Video Festival 

MinnesotaState Fair - August 28, 2013

It was only a matter of time before the Internet became reality and the Cat Video Festival is certainly evidence of that.  Only in its second year, this festival celebrates Internet cats in all their viral glory.  Sit around with like-minded cat-lovers and watch videos on a giant screen, listen to music and special speakers and enjoy displays of art.

Moon Amtrak courtesy of poplicks.com

Hobo King and Queen courtesy of hobosoul.com

PGI Display courtesy of Mike Workman via Creative Commons