Let us be your guide to the craziest festival in Europe: La Tomatina de Buñol.
The biggest and messiest food-fight of the year is fast approaching and it is right here, in our very own backyard, buñol, Valencia. So, we’ve not only put together the ultimate guide to enjoy this crazy tradition, we’ve also got you sorted with our very own La Tomatina Package too.
More of that later, first, let’s go back and take a look at how a small town in Spain became home to the tradition that sees upwards of 20,000 people cover themselves, and the streets, in over 120 tonnes of ripe tomatoes…
La Tomatina – How it all began
The exact origins of the festival are unclear, but it likely began in August 1945 during a Buñol procession. A scuffle broke out when young people tried to join, leading to a spontaneous vegetable fight. Though police shut it down, locals repeated it for fun the next year. Initially, authorities tried to ban it, but over time, the event gained recognition and eventually became the world-famous La Tomatina we know today.
The Festival – What you need to know!
When and where? La Tomatina occurs every year on the last Wednesday of August in the town of Buñol, about 40km outside of Valencia. The food-fight begins at 11am, but most people arrive early in the morning to begin enjoying the festivities. Bars open early allowing Tomatina-goers to start warming up for the epic food-fight ahead. Tour Me Out got your transport covered from Valencia and we’ll even help you get started with some pre-party Sangria (and a post-Tomatina beach crawl, too!).
What to wear?
Traditionally, people wear white, though it won’t stay that way for long! Expect to be drenched in tomato juice, so wear something you don’t mind ruining—or tossing. When you book with us, you’ll get your own La Tomatina shirt!
Closed shoes are a must—20,000 people means a high chance of getting stepped on. And don’t forget goggles—trust us, you’ll want to keep that tomato juice out of your eyes!
What to take? Valuables are easily destroyed, lost or stolen during an event like this, so leave the passports at home. Carry only what you need in a secure pouch attached to your body or around your neck. Keep your phone waterproof and in an extra-protective case. Go pros or similar are perfect to capture the craziness of the festival, so take one if you have one!
The food fight – What to expect
During the lead up to the 11am tomato throwing, participants are seen attempting to climb a greased up pole in order to reach a ham at the top. When the first person reaches the ham, it signals the beginning of the food fight; although, it is nearly impossible to actually reach the top and so an 11am cut-off is set, ensuring the food fight begins no later than that.
Guidelines are set before-hand advising participants to crush the tomatoes in their hands before throwing them, although this rule is not always followed. Expect some tomato-related “injuries” during the fight. You may also be in for a surprise when a bucket of water is sent pouring down from the balconies above, so maybe consider a raincoat!
By the end of the tomato throwing, the city is swimming in tomato juice and the fire-fighters head out to clean up. Many people then head to the river to wash off, or you can find locals standing around with hoses ready to spray you down.
While it sounds like a crazy, messy day, don’t worry – it’s also one of the most cultural and thrilling experiences you can have! La Tomatina sees groups of friends and strangers bond in the mutual love of vegetable-throwing, so grab your tickets now and get ready for the biggest food fight in Spain!
Created by Rebecca Jenkins
