The Annual World Eskimo-Indian Olympic Games get underway July 15–18 in Fairbanks, Alaska with traditional competitions that include the Ear Pull, pitting components together for a tug-of-war with their ears. That’s right: A length of sinew is looped around the left ear of one competitor and the right ear of the other, and a literal pulling contest ensues to see who has the strongest ear.

Other unique games include One-Hand Reach, Toe Kick, and Eskimo Stick Ball in which contenders sit facing one another with the soles of their feet pressed together and their hands gripping a stick. To win, the stick must be pulled away from the opponent, or the opponent must be pulled over.

These and a host of other competitions replicate traditional Alaska Native games used during the long winter months to keep village residents in top physical shape for hunting and defense. Dancers perform throughout the events, dressed in authentic clothing including moose hide dresses and vests, moccasins and mukluks — soft boots made of sealskin, reindeer or other animal skin. The events take place at the Carlson Center. Vendors and artists will also be on hand to present Alaska Native crafts and food.