Knobbly knees competition

Dad, butlins, skegness, 1956

Knobbly Knees Competition is a traditional contest that has its roots in the British holiday camp culture, particularly popular during the mid-20th century. The competition is a light-hearted event where participants, often male, showcase their knees to be judged on their prominence, shape, and overall "knobbly" appearance. The contest is one of many novelty competitions held at holiday camps, such as Butlin's and Pontin's, designed to entertain guests with quirky and humorous activities.

History

The Knobbly Knees Competition emerged in the post-war era, a time when British holiday camps were at their peak of popularity. These camps were designed to provide affordable holiday options for working-class families, offering a range of entertainment and activities. The competition became a staple of the camp's entertainment lineup, alongside other contests like the "Glamorous Grandmother Competition" and "Miss Lovely Legs."

Criteria and Judging

In a Knobbly Knees Competition, participants are judged on several criteria, primarily focusing on the knobbly nature of their knees. Judges look for uniqueness, the prominence of knee bones, and the overall aesthetic of the knees. The competition is often conducted with a sense of humor, with judges and participants alike embracing the fun and absurdity of the event.

Cultural Significance

The Knobbly Knees Competition holds a nostalgic place in British cultural history, symbolizing a bygone era of holiday entertainment. It reflects the post-war British society's values of community, humor, and the ability to find joy in simple pleasures. While the popularity of such competitions has waned with the decline of traditional holiday camps, they remain a fond memory for many and are sometimes revived for special events or themed parties.

Modern Day

Today, the Knobbly Knees Competition is less commonly found in its traditional setting, as holiday camps have evolved and diversified their entertainment offerings. However, the spirit of the competition lives on in various forms, such as charity events, themed parties, and as a nostalgic reference in popular culture. It serves as a reminder of the quirky and communal aspects of British holiday-making traditions.

See Also

• British holiday camps
• Butlin's
• Pontin's
• Holiday camp entertainment