***
A sign of true love! Courtesy of Whatsonwhen
When:
4 Jul 2009 (annual)
Where:
Sonkajärvi
Cost:
€50 registration fee; free to watch
At the annual Wife Carrying World Championships in Sonkajärvi, men carry their wives on their backs through over 250m of obstacles, including a water jump. The winner is awarded his spouse's weight in beer.
Advertisement
The roots of this event go back to the early 19th century. At this time, the area was under the influence of a local brigand named Rosvo-Ronkainen, who would only take men into his gang who proved their worth in a contest. After much deliberation he borrowed a local habit of stealing women from neighbouring villages and a tradition was born.
Related Information
Event details can change.
Please check with the organisers that the event is happening before making travel arrangements.
© Copyright 2009 Whatsonwhen Limited - All Rights Reserved