I am tempted to say that the cultural span is now limited to the time between adverts on the media (thank the Lord for the BBC)

But if you want a folk tradition that can continue indefinitly try a challange round song such as Crawshaw Bailey (trad SWales) where those who cant remember/invent another verse buy the beer.

I have seen/heard/participated in contests lasting up to 25 minutes.

Gareth.