The world-famous food fight event, La Tomatina, is held in Buñol, Spain, on the final Wednesday of August. Participants throw tomatoes for an hour in this joyful and raucous celebration, turning the town red.
Many theories exist about La Tomatina’s origins, from a 1945 food fight among local adolescents to a parade gone wrong. Regardless of its origins, the festival has become a global tourist destination with thousands of participants.
Participants climb a greased pole to retrieve a ham to start the event. The actual action comes when the ham is secured or the time limit expires. The hurling begins when overripe tomato trucks enter the busy town centre. The sheer volume of tomatoes and active engagement make it weird and exciting.
The event is mostly about having fun, but there are safety requirements. To reduce impact, participants should crush tomatoes before throwing and stay away from trucks. The acidic tomato juice can irritate eyes, so wear protection.
In addition to the tomato fight, Buñol hosts a week-long festival with parades, music, dancing, and other cultural events. The town is buzzing with enthusiasm and togetherness. A messy, memorable, and particularly Spanish fiesta, La Tomatina.