How La Tomatina in Spain is a Special Retreat
Explorers and tomato enthusiasts! Grab your goggles, pick your squishiest weapon, and prepare to dive into La Tomatina, Spain’s most sensual extravaganza! This isn’t your average food fight; it’s a boisterous festivity that turns Buñol’s streets into an ocean of creamy mayhem. All are invited to this incredible combination of humor, tomatoes, and a unique flavor of Spanish fiesta culture, regardless of experience level with salsa dancing. Be yourself for a dirty and exciting adventure at the la Tomatina festival, so fasten your seatbelt and consider packing a poncho.
What is La Tomatina?
The primary objective of La Tomatina is to throw tomatoes at people in a two-hour long food fight where throwing tomatoes at people is not only allowed but promoted. The only intention behind it is enjoyment. Valencian Spanish culture has made the festival an essential part of its heritage since it began in 1945. The world’s biggest state-approved food fight is called La Tomatina. Every year, Buñol’s La Tomatina event draws an average of about 40,000 participants, though it has had up to 50,000 in previous years.
For just two hours, people from all over the globe come together at la Tomatina in Spain, to hurl tomatoes at one another, using approximately 150 tons of overripe, rejected tomatoes from Extremadura in the region of Spain.
Way to participate in La Tomatina
The Tomatina festival was free to attend for both locals and tourists for many years, but due to high participation, the city of Buñol started collecting a tiny 10-euro entrance fee in 2013. As a result, only 30,000 people are now permitted to take part in the festivities. For buying your tickets in advance online allows you to schedule transportation to and from Buñol at the same time, even though you can save money by doing so when you get in Buñol.
Tickets from Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona, Costa Blanca, La Manga, Cartagena, Almeria, and Malaga may be purchased for La Tomatina on the official website. Note that the actual tomato-throwing event takes place only between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. So for make your booking, you can visit to the official website.
Things to do in La Tomatina
On this lovely Wednesday morning in the summer, Buñol, a little town about 40 km west of Valencia, is filled with sunshine. Enjoying the real paella you’re about to have for lunch, you’re exploring all the nooks and crannies of the majestic 12th-century Castillo de Buñol and picturing what it was like to be a medieval soldier guarding its vast walls.
- Join tomato fight
Get into the biggest food fight on Earth and let your inner kid loose among a ton of juicy tomatoes by joining the Tomato Fight. Take part in this chaotic, yet thrilling, ritual and feel the rush. During the tomato fight, participants fling tomatoes at one another in the streets of Buñol. Fun, humor, and a feeling of unity are all combined in this one-of-a-kind encounter.
- Take Pictures and Save Memories
Check you capture every juicy moment by following these professional photography recommendations. Keep your memories of this historic occasion alive with waterproof gear and action photos. Take along a water-resistant camera or protect your smartphone with a case. Embrace the unscripted moments of flinging tomatoes, vibrant outfits, and the joyous occasion.
- Plan Your Costume
Create an own impression among the masses of celebrants donning tomato-covered attire. Dressing up enhances the enjoyment and keeps your clothes safe, whether you’re going for a tomato theme or something more wacky. Think about dressing in shabby clothes that you don’t mind getting torn or dirty also wear comfortable, supportive shoes and use goggles to shield your eyes from tomato pulp.
- Celebrate at the After-Party
Keep on the fun at the post-event celebrations following the tomato fight. After the thrill, relax with traditional Spanish food, dancing, and live music. After-parties with food and music are held in Buñol’s local restaurants and bars. Enjoying the evening and mingling with other participants and locals is a terrific chance.
- Explore the city
Take some time to stroll through the charming village of Buñol after the festival is over. Take in the rich cultural legacy of the area, visit historical landmarks, and try the local food. The old Buñol Castle, quaint streets, and delicious cafes with real Spanish food are all features of this attractive city. Explore the town’s atmosphere with a leisurely stroll.
When is La Tomatina celebrated?
It is very common to think, “When is the right time to grab your salsa dancing glasses and let your inner pro at La Tomatina?” for non-Spaniard. So grab your caps as well as your tomatoes because it is every last Wednesday in August. In Buñol, Spain, where is la tomatina celebrated, hosts an incredible food battle spectacle! Place the biggest celebration of the year on your calendars. The streets glow red when the sun comes out, and laughter fills the air. You won’t want to miss this tomato-tastic journey. So prepare to paint the town red at La Tomatina by gathering your squad and practicing your squish technique!
