The Redneck Games

One of Georgia’s greatest cultural gifts might be coming to an end. The Redneck Games, which began in 1996, have seen a dip in attendance in recent years. A lack of sponsors means many of us might never know the joys of “bug zapping by spitball” unless an influx of travelers can help revive the event.

The Redneck Games were established as a joke when Atlanta won the bid to host the 1996 Olympic Games. News media reacted to the win by claiming the Olympics were going to be hosted by a bunch of rednecks, which, in turn, led those “rednecks” to use the attention to start what turned into a wonderful charity event. The Redneck Games were later moved to New York and Ontario, where they’ve continued both officially and not ever since. Georgians are still holding their own National Redneck Games down in Augusta to this day.

The Redneck Games previously featured such rollicking events as Redneck Horseshoes, Mud Pit Volleyball and Bobbin’ for Pig’s Feet. There’s also something called Mud Pit Slip & Slide. The events are reminiscent of town fairs and often feature staples like tractor and truck pulls and the occasional demolition derby.

While the future of the Redneck Games are uncertain, you can still find a few of them taking place throughout North America.