Council, Idaho, has an unusual 4th of July tradition.  Flags, parades, barbecues, and fireworks?  Too mainstream.  But add in a porcupine race, and you’ve got yourself an event that attracts visitors from as far away as Canada (which is actually not that far away…).

The treatment of the porcupine stars of the day is questionable.  Not only are the nocturnal creatures bound to be traumatized by their temporary captivity and a release from garbage cans into a sunny arena surrounded by loud humans, but the rule that the porcupines are to be guided with brooms–not touched!–isn’t strictly enforced.

But say what you will: it’s certainly a unique way to celebrate the 4th.

On your mark, get set...

Council welcomes its visitors to the main attraction

It's an oversize load

Bring in the porcupines!

Left: Some of the avid onlookers – Right: The auctioneer, clad in a massive cowboy hat, accepted bids on porcupines/racers from the crowd. One young racer decided going shirtless would assist his case.

Always check the status of your porcupine with a broom

The shirtless young man's racing partner decided to follow suit. Unfortunately for them, their state of undress didn't help their race.

It may look like the spiky creature is racing, but it's really trying to escape the garbage can

Freedom: so close and yet so far

They get pretty serious about their racing in Council

Making a dash for it

Racers of all ages

We have a winner!

Look for more shots from Council’s porcupine race soon!