Ottery St Mary in southwestern England hosts dramatic annual barrel burning festivals . Seventeen flaming barrels are carried through the town 's streets in a tradition begun centuries ago . Wade 's message to them is simple : `` The atmosphere is lighthearted , but the barrels do get run through the streets . Other English towns host dramatic flaming festivals , including Lewes and the Shetland Isles .
Ottery St Mary in southwestern England hosts dramatic annual barrel burning festivals . Seventeen flaming barrels are carried through the town 's streets in a tradition begun centuries ago . Other English towns host dramatic flaming festivals , including Lewes and the Shetland Isles .