Buzz
While it may sound unconventional to some, the idea of extraterrestrial life is widely embraced globally. People from different countries share a belief in aliens, supported by numerous sightings that fuel the possibility of their existence. Below, we’ve curated a list of 10 extraordinary festivals held worldwide annually, perfect for those fascinated by the mysteries of the cosmos.
10. Roswell UFO FestivalRoswell, New Mexico
Roswell, New Mexico, proudly claims the title of the “UFO capital of the world,” and for good reason. In 1947, an unusual crash led a local rancher, Mac Brazel, to discover strange debris on his land. Unable to identify the materials, Brazel reported the findings to the local sheriff. Shortly after, military personnel from a nearby air force base arrived to swiftly gather the mysterious wreckage.
The air force initially stated that the debris was from test dummies used to study the effects of high-altitude falls on pilots. Later, the US government revealed that the incident was tied to a top-secret atomic espionage operation.
So, what truly occurred?
Many remain skeptical, with numerous individuals still convinced that a UFO was responsible for the crash. Taking place from late June to early July over four days, the annual Roswell UFO Festival draws thousands of visitors each year.
The festival features a wide range of activities, including a planetarium, an “Alien Chase” 5K or 10K walk/run, costume contests, a light parade, and a window-decorating competition. Attendees can also obtain a passport to collect stamps throughout the event, earning a bag of souvenirs and collectibles.
9. Exeter UFO FestivalExeter, New Hampshire
Exeter, New Hampshire, is known for a bizarre alien abduction in 1961 and a UFO sighting in 1965. The town has celebrated these events with an annual festival for the past five years. In 1961, Betty and Barney Hill were driving through the White Mountains when they encountered a spacecraft and believed they were briefly taken aboard by extraterrestrials.
At first, the couple claimed to have no memory of the incident. However, after undergoing hypnotherapy, they recounted strikingly similar details about their alleged abduction.
In 1965, multiple Exeter residents, including police officers, observed strange lights and unidentified flying objects on the same evening. This event solidified the small New England town’s reputation as a UFO hot spot.
Each year, numerous UFO experts gather in Exeter for the festival. Notably, all proceeds from the Exeter UFO Festival are donated to local children’s charities. In 2017, the festival was scheduled for Saturday, September 2, and Sunday, September 3.
The event offers speakers, food, music, and souvenirs for UFO enthusiasts of all ages. A complimentary trolley ride is provided to take visitors to the exact location of the 1965 sighting, perfect for those with a curiosity about extraterrestrial phenomena.
8. Alien FestivalCapilla Del Monte, Argentina
Capilla del Monte, located 800 kilometers (500 miles) northwest of Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital, draws thousands of international visitors for an extraordinary experience. The town’s residents began believing in extraterrestrial life after a circle of scorched grass was found near a local hill in 1986.
Numerous UFO sightings have been reported, making such occurrences common in the area. Festival attendees can hike up the 2,000-meter (6,500-foot) Uritorco Hill to explore energy fields and a rumored portal to another dimension. (The scenic view is an added bonus.)
While many locals claim to have witnessed UFO activity and take these phenomena seriously, the festival celebrates all things extraterrestrial, including Star Wars, E.T., and the classic image of little green aliens.
7. Alien Encounter FestivalAurora, Texas
In 2017, Aurora, Texas, will mark the 120th anniversary of its renowned extraterrestrial incident. On April 17, 1897, residents witnessed an “airship” crash into a windmill owned by the town’s judge, and the remains of an alien being were reportedly discovered.
The townspeople described the wreckage as cigar-shaped and metallic silver, mostly destroyed in the crash. The alien, named Ned, was declared dead on impact and given a Christian burial in the Aurora Cemetery. However, exhuming his remains for examination is prohibited.
Legend has it that papers with unknown hieroglyphics were found on the alien, but these have since vanished. At the Alien Encounter Festival, visitors can watch documentaries, explore vendor booths, or join shuttle tours to the crash site and Ned’s burial site for an adventurous experience.
6. Awakening UFO & Conscious Life ExpoManchester, England
The Awakening Expo provides a unique experience compared to other festivals. It focuses not only on celebrating the existence of extraterrestrial life but also on expanding spiritual awareness. Attendees can explore holistic therapies, Reiki, healing crystals, and more to delve into their subconscious.
Beyond UFO exploration, the event features an FBI alien interrogation room, animatronics from alien-themed films, and a Star Wars-inspired cantina bar. Notable speakers include Erich von Daniken, author of Ancient Aliens, and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and journalist Linda Moulton Howe.
Additional guest speakers will explore topics such as life after death, crop circles, Stonehenge, and more. A full-scale UFO replica is also on display. The event encourages attendees to ponder questions like humanity’s purpose, potential UFO cover-ups, and the possibility of receiving messages from beyond. The next Awakening Expo is scheduled for 2018.
5. McMenamins UFO FestivalMcMinnville, Oregon
The McMenamins UFO Festival, running from May 18–21 in 2017, has been an annual tradition for 18 years. It was inspired by a 1950 UFO sighting by a McMinnville couple, who captured photos of a flying saucer above their farm.
The photographs captured by the couple are regarded as the first and most credible images of an unidentified flying object. The festival also delves into topics like mass abductions, government conspiracies, and recent UFO sightings. Experts in alien abductions, UFO phenomena, nuclear events, and even air force personnel with firsthand UFO encounters will be in attendance.
The event features live music, a “landing party,” an alien-themed costume parade, a pet costume contest, a gift shop, and a 5K run. Guests can compete for prizes at the Alien Costume Ball while enjoying a pint of McMenamins’ exclusive Alienator Ale.
4. Shag Harbour UFO FestivalShag Harbour, Nova Scotia
The Shag Harbour UFO Festival in southwest Nova Scotia, complete with its own museum showcasing interactive artifacts, is set to commemorate 50 years since its famous “UFO Incident.” Known as the “Roswell of Canada,” Shag Harbour shares a reputation for UFO crashes with its American counterpart.
Despite the village’s rich history of oceanic folklore, multiple witnesses observed bright lights and an object crashing into the Atlantic Ocean on an October night in 1967. After the impact, the craft floated on the water, emitting a faint yellow glow.
At first, locals believed they were witnessing a plane crash. The Canadian government attempted to track the object but was diverted by a nearby Russian submarine. According to the tale, the original craft joined forces with another and managed to evade the Canadian submarines.
From September 29 to October 1, 2017, festival attendees can join bus tours to the crash site, featuring realistic reenactments, live music, a dance, and a costume contest. Guest speakers and eyewitnesses will also share their experiences and insights.
3. Cardwell UFO FestivalCardwell, Queensland
As Australia’s sole UFO festival, the Cardwell UFO Festival showcases potential extraterrestrial sightings from across the continent. While Cardwell has a history spanning over 150 years, the festival is now entering its fourth year.
Nearby towns are also recognized for unusual celestial activity. In 2016, over 2,000 space enthusiasts attended the event. Participate in the C-Files forum, join discussions, compete in the UFO Triathlon, shop at the Monster Market stalls, or showcase creativity in the alien-themed chalk art zone.
Children can enjoy a dedicated activity tent, face painting, costume-making workshops, and a treasure hunt called the “Space Race.” The Mos Eisley Cantina (a nod to Star Wars fans) is another highlight.
With the 2017 festival scheduled for June 3, attendees will have an excellent opportunity to spot Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn during the night sky viewing. Perhaps you might even catch a glimpse of a flying saucer.
2. Pine Bush UFO FairPine Bush, New York
The Pine Bush UFO Fair, a community-driven event, turns extraterrestrial hunting into a fun experience. Since the 1960s, numerous Pine Bush locals have reported strange lights in the sky and sightings of mysterious aircraft.
Over the years, the small town has embraced its unique history of unexplained phenomena. Author Ellen Crystall spent a decade researching Pine Bush, culminating in her 1990s book Silent Invasions.
The fair, packed with family-friendly activities, allows ufologists and enthusiasts to share their personal encounters. True to fair traditions, it offers plenty of food, live music, and a lively parade.
An “Eye Spy Alien” game invites attendees to search for hidden aliens around the fairgrounds. Visitors can join the Miss Galaxy contest or explore the Paranormal Center, where experts discuss extraterrestrial encounters and present evidence.
1. ‘Out Of This World’ UFO Festival & ConferenceEdinburg, Texas
In 1966, eight construction workers were excavating a gravel pit in Edinburg, Texas, when bright lights appeared in the sky accompanied by a loud humming noise. Intense winds and flames erupted from above, forcing the men to run for their lives.
The fire destroyed their sleeping quarters, trucks, and equipment, and none of the workers returned. Nearby residents also reported seeing hovering lights from afar.
Today, the Edinburg UFO Festival & Conference features renowned experts, including alien researchers, authors, FBI agents, and Derrel Sims, known as “The Alien Hunter” from the Discovery Channel’s Uncovering Aliens. Alongside food, live music, and costume contests, attendees can enjoy a guided walking tour of the 1966 incident, a laser light show, and alien-themed art displays.
