So, the financial institutions are flailing and a lot of people still don't have power. Forget the spooky links for now; we're just going for goofy escapism today, and will get in the proper Halloween spirit next week.

Anyway! Summer is ending, and that means the festivals get increasingly weirder. In the Alps, the cows are coming home, which means a celebration. In Belgium, it's time for the annual stilt walker contest. In France, they're honoring Icarus by flying handmade crafts off steep places, while in the UK they're honoring crabs. (They're also holding the Air Guitar Championships, if that's more your style.) And finally, here in America, the Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival sets sail this weekend.