It's traditional. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%A4vle_goat) The city council of Gävle think they're famous because every year, they build a big-ass goat; everyone else knows they're famous because every year, someone burns it to the ground. They've tried guards, appeals to the public, prosecution, and dozens of flame retardants. People still burn it down.



It's a ritual sacrifice. With ham.