Where/when: Piemonte, Italy - February

Centuries ago, the town's folk rebelled against a twisted count who kidnapped virgin brides and deflowered them on their wedding night. Not only was he beheaded, his guards were also stoned to death. Nowadays, the stones have been replaced by tons of juicy oranges that the villagers pelt at each other. This is quite possibly the wackiest historical re-enaction on Earth.

Freakiness factor: Medium - More bizarre than scary. At the end of the festival, a newlywed woman showers the people with sweets. Tasty!