2020 might be remembered for its challenges, but it also delivered some truly bizarre and hilarious moments. If you need a break from the seriousness of the world, here are ten ridiculous news stories that actually happened. Prepare to smile!
10. Cows Take Over Beer Garden at Closed Restaurant
When a British hotel and restaurant reopened after COVID-19 closures, they found a dozen cows had moved into their beer garden! The cows, from a nearby farm, were enjoying the outdoor seating, showing no respect for social distancing. The Moat House joked on Facebook that even the cows couldn’t wait for them to reopen. The bovine squatters were eventually returned home, and the hotel proceeded with its reopening plans.
9. Ex-eBay Employees Charged with Mailing Spiders to Critics
Six former eBay employees faced criminal charges for harassing a couple who ran a blog critical of the company. The harassment included sending obscene messages, live insects (including spiders and cockroaches), and a bloody pig mask. Executives, angered by the blog, allegedly conspired to “burn her to the ground.” The tactics, inspired by the movie ‘Johnny Be Good,’ escalated to sending pornography with one of the blogger’s names to their neighbors.
8. Marijuana Delivered to the Wrong Home
A family in Houston, Texas, received an unexpected package containing 32 bags of marijuana. Surprised, they called the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to report the accidental delivery. Since marijuana possession is illegal in Texas, deputies arrived to take the evidence. The Sheriff’s Office then cheekily posted on Instagram, inviting the rightful owner to claim their lost goods. It remains a mystery who sent the package and who was eagerly awaiting its arrival.
7. Florida Man Fights Alligator to Save Dog
Trent Tweddale, a Florida man, was walking his dog, Loki, when a 13-foot alligator snatched Loki in its jaws. Tweddale wrestled with the gator, pounding on its head until it released Loki. Loki’s front leg was severely injured but was reattached with surgery. Tweddale then spent his time trying to trap the alligator. A true testament to the bond between a man and his dog!
6. Man Slices Kiwis for Guinness World Record
David Rush broke two Guinness World Records in one week. First, he sliced 65 kiwis with a sword in one minute while standing on a balance board, smashing the previous record of 35. He also broke the record for bouncing 16 ping-pong balls into a pint glass. Rush, who has broken over 150 world records, does it to promote STEM education.
5. Batman Costume with 30 Working Gadgets Breaks Record
Keith Dinsmore, of Portland, Maine, broke the Guinness World Record for the most functional gadgets on a Batman suit. His costume included 30 working items, such as Batarangs, a grappling hook, a fingerprint kit, a tracking device, and even flashbangs. He outdid Julian Checkley, who previously held the record with 23 gadgets. Dinsmore’s suit is impressive and could rival Hollywood’s costume departments.
4. Man Refused Service at KFC Drive-Thru for Using a Horse and Cart
Ian Bell was refused service at a KFC drive-thru in Carlisle, Cumbria, because he was using a horse and cart. The manager cited health and safety concerns for other customers. Bell, feeling humiliated, pointed out that horses were around long before cars. He ended up going to McDonald’s, where he was served without issue. This story highlights the sometimes absurd rules we encounter.
3. Letting Agent Secretly Living in Tenants’ House
Tenants in London discovered their letting agent was secretly living in their spare room. The agent came for an inspection but then moved his belongings in, claiming he had signed a contract and paid a deposit. However, the landlords, who were also the tenants’ neighbors, confirmed this was false. The tenants reported the agent to the police, who intervened to remove the squatter.
2. Poland Accidentally Invades Czech Republic
Polish soldiers mistakenly crossed the border into the Czech Republic, preventing Czech citizens from entering a church. The incident, near Pelhřimovy, was attributed to a “misunderstanding.” Poland’s Ministry of Defense downplayed the event, and the Czech Foreign Ministry confirmed there were no hard feelings. It seems even countries can have those “oops” moments.
1. Man Fined for ‘Provocative’ Fart
A man in Vienna, Austria, was fined €500 for letting out a “massive intestinal wind” in front of police officers. The officers claimed the man was being uncooperative and behaving provocatively before the incident. They stated he intentionally stood up, looked directly at them, and released the fart. The story went viral, leaving many with gastrointestinal issues worried about potential fines. No word on whether he paid or contested the fine.
These stories remind us that even in serious times, the world provides moments of levity and absurdity. From cows taking over beer gardens to accidental invasions, these events offer a much-needed escape from the everyday.
What was the most ridiculous story you’ve heard lately? Leave your comment below!
