Looking to mix it up a bit? Here are some cool summer events to open your mind in new directions:
Boulia, Australia: The annual Boulia Camel Races (July 18-20) in Queensland are a spectacle of noise, speed, dust and excitement. These colorful races see this tiny Outback town swell from 300 to 3,000, with everyone betting on their favorite camel. Race highlights are the Quarter-Mile Flyer and the Camel Cup.
Heber Springs, Arkansas, USA: The highly unusual Cardboard Boat Race World Championship (July 26) sees contestants battling it out on Greers Ferry Lake in cardboard boats. Year after year, teams spend the winter months designing their boats in hope of taking home the "Pride of the Fleet" award. Everyone is welcome to participate, as long as their boat is cardboard.
Villagarcia de Arousa, Spain: The locals of this remote town celebrate San Roque Feast Day (Aug 16) with a huge water-fight. After a religious homage to the patron saint during the morning, the serious partying begins with the Festa de Agua in the afternoon. Buckets, hydrants, hoses and any other water-producing devices are brought out ready for action; you’ll be soaked in no time (read: don’t bring your new Prada shoes). A great opportunity to cool yourself down if you’re venturing through Galicia in August.
