Unusual UK events in October.

October opens its odd days out with things you'd find in a kitchen cupboard or on an autumn walk. The Golden Spurtle turns porridge making into a championship, while the World Conker Championships asks rather a lot of a horse chestnut and its string. Read the event guides to see what competitors actually do and how you can watch or enter. A small piece of kit can produce a surprisingly absorbing contest when everyone agrees it matters.

The creative gatherings offer another way into the season. Whitby Goth Weekend brings its own trading spaces, outfits and community, while Derry Halloween spreads activity across the city. There may be several ways to enjoy programmes like these, but different parts can have different admission or booking arrangements. Check the current guide, because a free activity, a market visit and a controlled experience won't necessarily share the same entry rules.

Hastings Bonfire adds a fire tradition to the month, with its own society, route and spectator information. Decide which kind of outing suits your group: a championship to follow, a creative festival to explore or a procession to watch. It's about the atmosphere and practical arrangements as much as the most striking image.

October is also a good month to look closely at which edition a date belongs to. Some events on a page may have only just happened while others are still to come, and the next programme may not be complete yet. Use the calendar and organiser information before arranging a journey. The map can help you choose a base, but it can't promise that several events will fit together. Pick one that appeals, leave time for the host town and let the season provide the rest of the atmosphere.