La Tomatina is one of the world’s most iconic festivals, held every year on the last Wednesday of August in Buñol, a town located in Valencia, Spain.
This festival, which dates back to 1945, is famous for its tomato-throwing tradition, where thousands of people gather in the streets to throw tomatoes at each other.
If you’re planning to attend La Tomatina for the first time, this guide will help you prepare for this unique experience.
What is La Tomatina?
La Tomatina is a festival that takes place in Buñol, Spain, on the last Wednesday of August every year.
It is a tomato-throwing festival where thousands of people gather to throw tomatoes at each other.
The origins of the event are unclear, though one story suggests it began as a protest when locals attempted to disrupt a parade.
Others suggest the event started when children simply had fun throwing tomatoes from nearby vegetable stands.
Whatever its origin, today’s Tomatina came about as tomatoes were plentiful and affordable.
It takes place on the last Wednesday of August for about an hour with more than one hundred metric tons of tomatoes.
Despite seeming like sheer chaos, there is order, fire trucks begin spraying water to signify the end of the battle.
La Tomatina has become a great example of a unique Spanish tradition and each year thousands come out to join in on the fun!
Getting There
If you’re planning to attend La Tomatina, the best way to get there is by train or bus from Valencia.
There are also some tour companies that offer packages for the festival.
Depending on where you are traveling from, flying into Valencia is probably the best option.
From there it’s only a thirty kilometer taxi ride to Buñol.
If you don’t mind taking the bus, they run several times a day from the Valencia Airport and drop you right in front of the Festival’s Las Ruedas Park entrance.
Once in town you’ll need to stay overnight as most people head to the event early morning.
If you’re looking for accommodations, check out nearby towns like Turís or Chiva where there are plenty of quality places to stay.
What to Wear
It’s important to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as the festival involves throwing tomatoes at each other.
It’s also a good idea to wear goggles to protect your eyes from the tomato juice.
It’s important to remember to dress appropriately. This includes wearing clothing and shoes that can withstand getting covered in tomatoes.
Think old shorts or jeans and a t-shirt or tank top – something which absorbs liquid quickly and will dry quickly afterwards.
You’ll also want to consider wearing an eye mask or glasses so that your eyes don’t get stung by tomatoes.
When it comes to footwear, sandals or flip flops are probably not your best choice, opt for tennis shoes as they won’t slip off in all of the splashing juice.
Finally, make sure to take a good-sized bag or backpack with you for storing any belongings during the festival that you’d like to keep off the ground.
What to Bring
You should bring a change of clothes, a plastic bag to store your dirty clothes, and a waterproof camera to capture the memories.
To experience the mayhem to its full potential, make sure to come prepared with essential items such as sunscreen and a spare set of clothing.
You don’t want to be stuck in your tomato-soaked clothes after the battle.
The tomatoes used at La Tomatina are very squishy so waterproof goggles and ear plugs can also come in handy.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for running and something to cover your head with to avoid direct sun exposure.
And don’t forget your camera – it’s the only way you’ll be able to prove that you survived the messiest food fight in the world.
The Rules
There are some rules that you should follow if you’re attending La Tomatina.
These include not bringing any bottles or hard objects, not ripping anyone else’s clothes, and squishing the tomatoes before throwing them.
The Tomato Fight
The tomato fight is the main event of La Tomatina, where thousands of people gather in the streets to throw tomatoes at each other.
The tomato fight lasts for about an hour.
The After-Party
After the tomato fight, there is an after-party that lasts until late at night. The party includes music, dancing, and fireworks.
Safety Tips
It’s important to stay safe during La Tomatina.
Some safety tips include wearing closed-toe shoes, staying hydrated, and being aware of your surroundings.
Accommodation
If you’re planning to attend La Tomatina, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation early, as it can get crowded during the festival.
Other Things to Do in Buñol
Buñol is a beautiful town with lots of things to see and do.
Some other things to do in Buñol include visiting the castle, exploring the old town, and trying the local cuisine.
Sustainability
La Tomatina can be a messy festival, but it’s important to be environmentally conscious.
You should dispose of your tomato-stained clothes and any other waste properly.
Cultural Significance
La Tomatina is not just a tomato-throwing festival; it has cultural significance too. The festival is a celebration of community and solidarity.
Aside from being a fun and messy way to celebrate, La Tomatina has become symbolic of harmony and peace.
People of different backgrounds gather together joyfully to share in a common experience, participants seek personal growth through overcoming fear and embracing adventure.
As such, the festival has come to signify international unity and goodwill beyond its local significance in Bunol.
Through La Tomatina, people now share a special bond transcending language and cultural boundaries.
Tips for Enjoying La Tomatina
To fully enjoy La Tomatina, you should embrace the chaos and have fun. Don’t take yourself too seriously and be prepared to get messy.
FAQs
Is La Tomatina safe?
La Tomatina can be a bit chaotic, but as long as you follow the rules and take some basic safety precautions, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
How do I clean off the tomato juice?
The easiest way to clean off the tomato juice is to shower as soon as possible after the tomato fight. You can also bring some wet wipes to help clean off any excess tomato juice.
Are there age restrictions for attending La Tomatina?
There are no official age restrictions for attending La Tomatina, but it’s important to keep in mind that it can be a bit hectic and crowded, so it may not be suitable for young children or anyone with mobility issues.
Can I bring my own tomatoes?
No, you cannot bring your own tomatoes to La Tomatina. The tomatoes used for the festival are specially grown for this purpose and are supplied by the festival organizers.
Is there anything else to do in Buñol besides La Tomatina?
Yes, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Buñol, including visiting the castle, exploring the old town, and trying the local cuisine.
Conclusion and final thoughts..
La Tomatina is an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for this unique and exciting festival.
From what to wear to the rules of the tomato fight, you’ll be ready to join in the fun and festivities. Just remember to stay safe, be environmentally conscious, and have a blast.