9 Surprising Drinking Rituals Around The World

In this country, we're no strangers to drinking, and neither are countries around the world — so much so that drinking has become a ritualistic pastime. In fact, some drinking rituals may surprise you.

9 Surprising Drinking Rituals Around the World (Slideshow)

When traveling from country to country, you'll likely to discover that each have their own customs — sometimes quirky — when it comes to drinking and getting belligerent.

Swedes will sing a drinking song before, during, and after each round of shots of aquavit, which are followed by a glass of beer. As the shots keep coming, the singing gets louder and more enthusiastic.

The Dutch style of drinking genever, a kind of flavored whiskey, is to do it by "head butting." To do this, they pour chilled genever in a tulip glass until the drink reaches the very tip of the rim. Bending from the waist, they take a sip, then straighten up and follow with a sip of beer. The "head butt" is repeated until the drink is gone.

Russians have a habit of giving long, story-like toasts with a punch line. And when they've finished a drink, empty glasses go under the table, not on top.

Read on for more surprising drinking rituals you may have never heard of.

Australia — Shouting a Round of Beers

When grabbing "schooners" (beers) with mates, Aussies pass the baton of buying a round, which they call "shouting." If you don't step up and shout a round of schooners when it's your turn, you may labeled a "tight ass" or a bludger," neither which are nicknames you want to be called.

Croatia — Rajika for Medication and Digestion

Croatians drink Rajika, which is like moonshine, for more than social reasons. They also drink it to cure illnesses and as a digestive after a meal.

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Haley WIllard is The Daily Meal's assistant editor. Follow her on Twitter @haleywillrd.