Saint Antolin’s Day in Lekeitio, Biscay, Spain held every year between reaches its peak on September 5th with the “Antzar Eguna” or the day of the geese. It is a spectacular and original tradition with deep roots in ancient rituals, with documented evidence dating back more than 350 years.
The game consists of decapitating a dead goose hanging from a rope in the middle of the harbour – with nothing but their body weight and the strength in their arms. Coming alongside the hanging goose, the participant grabs the neck of the animal and jumps into the water. Meanwhile, a group of “sailors” pull on the end of the rope, sending both goose and player into the air. The sailors then release the rope, sending both plunging back into the water.