What is La Tomatina?
La Tomatina is an extremely unique experience and not for the faint of heart. 20,000 people flock to the town of Buñol, which is around 30 minutes away from Valencia. This tradition has been held since 1945, although it hasn’t always had the giant (mostly international) crowd it has today.
The day starts extremely early with the buses leaving from Estacion Joaquin Sorollo at 7 AM. Buñol, Spain is very lively starting around 7 AM, with loud EDM music being played and beers being served by the liter. There’s another section of the town 15 minutes away that is rave, where they had a stage and a DJ and of course drinks.
I would suggest getting this point, having a few drinks, and then making your way into the main street so you can get a good spot. Trucks full of tomatoes going your way tells you it’s time for a Tomato fight, so put your goggles on and prepare for one massive food fight! You can actually pay extra to be one of the people in the trucks throwing tomatoes! The street ends up being a river of tomatoes about ankle height.
Before the trucks come, you should try to go next to a wall/on the sidewalk and not let anyone push you away when the trucks come. If you don’t like crowds, chaos, and being pushed around, this is definitely not for you. I loved my time at Tomatina and I cannot recommend it enough. However it is necessary to know the risks and be as prepared as possible!
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La Tomatina Schedule
When looking at these times, keep in mind that Spanish people are late for everything, so be prepared to just hang out in the streets for awhile!
- 8 am – Arrive, go to various beer/sangria stands or the “rave” (area with a DJ)
- 9 am – Watch a bunch of drunk people try to climb a greased up pole to get a ham.
- 11 am – The busses full of tomatoes start slowly going through the town.
- 12-12:30 pm – The party ends and you wash off in the streets
- 1 pm – Eating!! Depending on which company you go with, they serve you a paella and sangria
After this, you can either go back to your wherever you’re staying, or stay for the after party. My group left at 2:30.
Tips For Attending La Tomatina
Bring Goggles!! Make sure you have eye protection because a tomato to the eyes is not a pleasant thing.
Wear clothes you’re okay with throwing out. There’s a good chance your clothes will be ruined after this.
Mind your phone. Only bring your phone if it’s waterproof or in a water proof bag. There will be people selling waterproof phone bags in the parking lot where the buses arrive.
Plan a meeting place with your group before you go into the crowded streets. There’s a good chance you’ll get split up.
Be careful of stampedes. The streets are completely packed to begin with. When two massive trucks drive down the streets, and you’re in the middle of the street, you’ll either be pushed to the side or pushed further down, both options are chaotic.
Be careful if you’re a woman. Try to go with a group. If you’re a solo female traveler, try to join a group and beware of your surroundings. Men have been known to be touchy in La Tomatina.
Only bring what you need. They do not allow bags like purses, backpacks etc. in the Tomato fight. Most people leave their bags in the “Lockers” which are not very secure, so the less valuables, the better!
Get there early. We didn’t get to where the tomato sludge was ankle deep because it was already so crowded when we were there. You should try to get to this this location ASAP.
How to Buy Tickets for La Tomatina
There are two ways to buy tickets for La Tomatina. The first way is directly, through the official website. You can also purchase and organize transportation through them.
The other way is through third party organizers, like this one. The third-party tour operators may provide extra amenities like all inclusive meals and drinks, nicer transportation, after-party and pre-party rave tickets! These tour operators will also provide transportation from places other than Valencia. It’s completely up to your travel style, but the official website is cheapest!
How to Get to La Tomatina
You can either drive, take a public or private bus, a super expensive taxi, or take the train from Valencia to Buñol. I did see tour busses coming from Madrid, but I advise against this. Some people stay in Buñol but keep in mind the prices will be much higher than usual. The public buses 265a, 265b and 267A will be crowded but are the cheapest option. There is also a C3 train from Valencia’s North Railway Station that takes you to Buñol.
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La Tomatina FAQs
Are there rules for La Tomatina?
Yes, you cannot throw objects other than tomatoes, no ripping other people’s shirts, squash the tomatoes before throwing them so they are softer, and follow the instructions of the security staff.
How long does La Tomatina last?
The tomato fight lasts an hour but there are parties for several hours before and after the tomato fight.
Where is La Tomatina?
La Tomatina is hosted in Buñol, which is located 30 minutes away from Valencia.
Is La Tomatina in English?
The police officers and guides speak English more often than not. There are definitely a few Spaniards, but this a largely international event. It’s also not hard to get around, just follow the crowds!
