These Russians want mosquito bites. Here's why

Friday, July 17, 2015, 8:45 AM - While Canadians try almost anything to repel mosquitoes, in Russia, residents celebrate the irritating insect.

This summer will be worse than usual for mosquitoes and blackflies in many areas of Canada, according to G.D.G. Environment, a company based in Trois-Rivieres, Que. Our recent bug report examines what to expect in the region you live in this season.

Friday marks the opening of the three-day event in the Russian city of Berezniki, in the Ural mountains. The Mosquito Festival welcomes spectators to take part in a series of unusual events. Activities include: A mosquito parade and the "tastiest girl" competition, in which women are judged based on how many mosquito bites they can get after standing in shorts and dresses for a 20 minute period, The Moscow Times reports.

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"An expert panel of judges, including a doctor, will examine their bodes and the winner will be the one with the most bites," organizer Natalya Paramonova told BBC. The 2013 winner was covered in over 100 bites, the BBC reports.

For those who opt to not get bitten by the bloodthirsty insects, there are other activities including, a competition to see who can catch the most live mosquitoes.

This is the third year Berezniki has hosted the event.

Source: The Moscow Times | BBC