Benidorm witnessed its "strangest tradition" over the weekend, as residents converged to watch a donkey defecating. The peculiar event 'Caga de la Burra', literally translated as 'Poo from the Donkey', unfolded yesterday (Sunday, September 15) in various towns across Spain 's sun-kissed Alicante province. Local YouTuber ' Benidorm by Ana' uploaded footage explaining this unusual custom, dubbing it "one of the strangest [traditions] in the entire world ".
Ana explained how onlookers encircle a free-roaming donkey, sequestered within a marked zone carved into numerous small, numbered sections. Expectant participants stake €10 (£8.43) on these numbered zones and could win €1,000 (£843) if they correctly guess the plot that will be graced with the donkey's droppings.
If the donkey does its business in more than one plot, the prize goes to whoever's plot contains the most of that business. The event was first held in Benidorm in 2014. It was called off at the start of the pandemic, but made a comeback in 2021.
It also appears to be very popular. According to BomRadioBenidorm , all 500 of the numbered plots were purchased at the event this weekend. The town's mayor accompanied the donkey to the festival area, where there was also live music, bars and food stalls.
The competition's tagline is: "Never has a s**t given you so much." This year's festivities have been heralded as a resounding triumph, with the organisers taking to Instagram to express their gratitude and announcing it will return next year. They said: "We would like to express our most sincere thanks to all the people who joined and collaborated in this traditional celebration.
From those who helped with the organisation, to those who participated and enjoyed with us. Each one of you was a fundamental part of making this event a success. "Thanks to the councillors, neighbours and friends who did their bit, and of course, to the donkey for being the star of the party.
See you next year to keep this beautiful tradition alive!".
