What Is La Tomatina

La Tomatina: The World's Biggest Food Fight

What is La Tomatina?

La Tomatina is a Spanish festival in Buñol, Spain, where participants throw tomatoes at each other. It is said to be the biggest food fight in the world.

History of La Tomatina

The origins of La Tomatina are unknown, but it is believed to have started in 1945. According to one story, a group of young people started throwing tomatoes at each other during a parade. The police intervened, but the crowd continued to throw tomatoes and the fight soon spread throughout the town.

Another story claims that a group of children started a tomato fight in the streets of Buñol in 1945 and that the festival developed from that incident.

La Tomatina Today

Today, La Tomatina is a major tourist attraction. More than 20,000 people attend the festival each year, and it is broadcast on international television.

The festival begins at 11:00 am with a "tomatazo" or tomato fight. For two hours, participants hurl tomatoes at each other. The streets of Buñol are covered in tomatoes, and the air is thick with the smell of tomato juice.

At 1:00 pm, the "water cannons" are turned on. These cannons spray water on the participants to help them cool down. The festival ends at 2:00 pm.

How to Attend La Tomatina

If you are planning to attend La Tomatina, it is important to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are available online and at the town hall in Buñol.

You will also need to bring appropriate clothing and shoes. You will be covered in tomatoes, so you should wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.

Tips for Attending La Tomatina

Here are a few tips for attending La Tomatina:

• Arrive early to get a good spot.
• Wear old clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.
• Bring a change of clothes and shoes.
• Stay hydrated.
• Be respectful of other participants.