World Pooh Stick Championship in UK

The Brits are nothing if not quirky and their affinity for a popular children’s book character might be one of their more delightful traits. Each year, people from all around the world gather in the U.K. to reenact a game made famous by everyone’s favorite bear, Winnie the Pooh.

The game, Poohsticks, is simple. Hundreds of fans line up along a river with their own painted and/or decorated stick. On cue they each let go of their stick and let it fall into the river, where it floats its way under a bridge. The first stick to emerge on the other side downstream is the winner!

It’s a tad simplistic, yes, but loads of fun for kids and adults alike.

The event was originally held on the Thames River at Day’s Lock but has been moved to accommodate the large number of people who come from around the world to partake in the day. In fact, some years have seen upwards of 1,500 folks wanting to compete.

There are, of course, other activities and games to play throughout the day, along with some great food. Proceeds from the event go to local charities and the rotary clubs in the area.

The location for next year’s event isn’t set in stone, but the latest World Pooh Sticks Championship was held in Whitney. Keep abreast of the event and how to enter by checking out the website.