Taking place on the last Wednesday of August every year in the small town of Buñol, this festival is not only a cultural highlight but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you will participate in a fun tomato "war" with thousands of people, enjoying the joy and connection that few places can match.
About the tomato throwing festival
La Tomatina is one of Spain’s most unique and prominent events, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world . This festival began in 1945 and has become an integral part of the culture of the town of Buñol. Every year, people gather to participate in a vibrant tomato fight, turning the town into a vibrant sea of red. This is not only a time for fun but also an opportunity for everyone to enjoy happy moments together.
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Where is the tomato throwing festival held?
La Tomatina is held in the town of Buñol, in the province of Valencia, Spain. The town has a population of only about 9,000, but that number can swell significantly on festival day. Buñol is famous for its narrow streets, which make for the perfect setting for a tomato fight. The streets become rivers of red, and locals and international visitors alike join in the festive atmosphere.
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Activities at the tomato throwing festival
At around 11am, trucks carrying tons of tomatoes arrive at the Plaza del Pueblo in the center of Buñol for La Tomatina, the tomato-throwing festival. The festival begins when someone grabs a ham from the top of a pole, and when the ham falls, it signals the start of a fierce food fight. Participants enthusiastically throw tomatoes at each other for about an hour or two, turning the town into a sea of bright red. When the final gunshots are heard, fire trucks clear the town, and people bathe in the Buñol River to wash off the tomatoes.
PHOTO: FREEPIK
Interesting points of tomato throwing festival
What makes La Tomatina unique is the organized chaos. While it may seem like a tomato fight, the festival adheres to a number of rules to ensure everyone’s safety. And of course, you need to book tickets in advance to attend the event.
Rules of La Tomatina:
- Do not bring bottles or hard objects as they may cause accidents and injure other participants.
- Don't tear other people's t-shirts.
- You should crush tomatoes before throwing them as this reduces injury to others.
- Make sure you keep a safe distance from the truck.
- As soon as you hear the second gunshot, you must stop throwing tomatoes.
Helpful tips:
- Wear closed-toe shoes that you don't mind throwing away afterwards. If you wear flip-flops, you could get injured or you could easily lose them in a fight.
- Wear old clothes or clothes that you don't plan on wearing again. They are likely to be ruined by being torn or extremely dirty.
- You may find goggles helpful. However, it is safer to simply make sure you always have something clean to wipe your eyes with. It is best if you tuck your T-shirt into your shorts to keep the bottom of your T-shirt clean and dry.
- If you plan on taking pictures, bring a waterproof camera!
- If you are not from Buñol and want to stay overnight, don't forget to search and secure accommodation in advance.
- Don't miss the Palojabon - a greased pole with a piece of Spanish ham on top. Whoever can climb the pole and get the ham gets to keep it!
- Stay safe and enjoy the festival as much as you can.
The feeling of throwing tomatoes at each other in a safe, fun environment that makes everyone feel excited and relaxed is what makes La Tomatina such a memorable event.
PHOTO: FREEPIK
La Tomatina is not only a fun event but also an important part of Spanish culture and spirit. Participating in this festival, you will not only experience moments of joy and excitement but also have the opportunity to understand more about the beauty of solidarity and friendship between people. If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate to come to Buñol and experience an unforgettable festival day, where joy and happiness spread in every moment.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/thoi-trang-tre/doc-dao-le-hoi-nem-ca-chua-la-tomatina-tai-tay-ban-nha-185240905120023574.htm
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