La Tomatina is one of the most unique and fun festivals in the world. Held annually in Buñol, Spain, this tomato-throwing extravaganza attracts thousands of visitors eager to join in the messy fun. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or just curious about what makes La Tomatina so special, this guide covers everything you need to know.

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What is La Tomatina?

La Tomatina is a massive food fight where participants throw overripe tomatoes at each other. It’s held in the town of Buñol, located in the Valencia region of Spain. The festival is famous for its sheer chaos and vibrant red mess, and it’s celebrated every year on the last Wednesday of August. The event starts around 11 am and lasts for about an hour, but the memories (and the stains) can last much longer!

Why is La Tomatina Celebrated?

The origins of La Tomatina are a bit murky, but it’s believed to have started in 1945. According to local lore, a group of young people were kicked out of a parade for participating in a mock fight. In retaliation, they began throwing tomatoes from a nearby vegetable stand, and thus, the tradition was born. Despite its somewhat spontaneous beginnings, La Tomatina quickly became a cherished annual event for the people of Buñol.

The History Behind the Festival

La Tomatina’s official history dates back to 1957 when it was officially recognized and began to be organized by the town. The festival was initially met with some resistance from local authorities who saw it as a waste of food, but it has since grown into a beloved tradition. Over the years, the festival has evolved from a local affair into an international spectacle, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe.

How to Get to La Tomatina

Traveling to La Tomatina is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip:

1. Travel to Spain: Book a flight to Spain and head to Valencia, which is the closest major city to Buñol. Valencia has a well-connected airport (Valencia Airport VLC) with flights from many international destinations. Alicante-Elche Airport is another great option (ALC).
2. Get to Buñol: From Valencia, you can take a train or bus to Buñol. The train journey is about 30 minutes, and buses are also available. There are also organized shuttles that run specifically for the festival.
3. Accommodation: It’s wise to book your accommodation well in advance, as Buñol and the surrounding areas get quite crowded during the festival. Options range from local hotels and hostels to Airbnb rentals.
4. Prepare for the Mess: Wear old clothes and sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting ruined. Many people also wear goggles and gloves to protect themselves from the tomato pulp.

What to Expect During the Festival

When the festival starts, participants gather in the streets and await the signal for the tomato-throwing to begin. A few trucks filled with tomatoes are driven into the town square, and once they are unloaded, the tomato fight begins. The streets quickly become a sea of red as people hurl tomatoes at each other with abandon. It’s all in good fun, and the camaraderie and excitement are palpable.

The festival kicks off with a pre-event known as ‘la de la empalma,’ which refers to the all-night party that takes place the night before La Tomatina. Sponsored by the town and local residents, this festive prelude includes street parties and makeshift bars, where people celebrate until dawn.

Around 10 am on the day of La Tomatina, the first event takes place: the ‘palo jabón,’ a greasy pole climb to reach a ham suspended at the top. The moment someone manages to dislodge the ham, the tomato battle begins. The main event starts at 11 am with the sound of fireworks or a loud bang, signaling the start of the tomato fight. Six trucks deliver nearly 150 tons of tomatoes to the participants, and since 2013, the event has had a maximum capacity of 22,000 people.

Family-Friendly Fun

La Tomatina isn’t just for adults. Since 2013, there’s been a special event for kids called ‘La Tomatina Infantil.’ Held on the last Saturday of August at 1 pm in Plaza de Buñol, this mini tomato fight is designed for children aged 4 to 14. The event lasts about 30 to 40 minutes and ensures that even the youngest festival-goers can enjoy the fun in a safe environment.

Famous Attendees and Media Coverage

La Tomatina has attracted numerous celebrities and media outlets over the years. Notable attendees have included actors, musicians, and even reality TV stars who come to experience the festival’s unique atmosphere. Major media outlets from around the world cover the event, so you might spot it on TV or online news reports.

Tips for Enjoying La Tomatina

• Stay Hydrated: The festival can be physically demanding, so drink plenty of water before and after the event.
• Protect Your Belongings: Leave valuables behind or secure them in waterproof bags.
• Follow Local Rules: There are some basic rules to ensure safety, such as no hard objects being thrown and respecting the locals.

After the Festival

Once the festival ends, you’ll likely be covered in tomato residue, so head to the designated washing areas where you can rinse off. Buñol also hosts a communal washing down of the streets, and it’s a great opportunity to socialize with fellow festival-goers. After cleaning up, explore the town, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Buñol.

La Tomatina is more than just a food fight; it’s a celebration of community, fun, and tradition. If you’re looking for a memorable experience that combines chaos with good old fashioned fun, this festival should be at the top of your list!

Share Your La Tomatina Experience!

Have you attended La Tomatina or are you planning to go this year? We’d love to hear from you! Tag us in your photos and videos on social media to share your epic tomato-throwing moments. Whether it’s a shot of the action, your favorite memories, or just the vibrant mess of the festival, we want to see it all. Don’t forget to follow us for more updates and features from the festival!

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