La Tomatina 2026 Guide: What You Need to Know

Every year, the small town of Buñol, near Valencia, becomes the centre of one of Spain’s most famous and unusual celebrations. La Tomatina brings thousands of visitors together for an unforgettable day of tradition, music and, above all, tomatoes.

The 2026 edition takes place on Wednesday, 26 August, with up to 20,000 participants expected to take part in the world-famous tomato fight.

La Tomatina 2026 at a Glance

• Date: Wednesday, 26 August 2026

• Location: Buñol, Valencia, Spain

• Participants: Up to 20,000

• Tomatoes: More than 100 metric tons

• Main event: Approximately one hour

• Distance from Valencia: Around 38 km

• Tickets: Required

What Is La Tomatina?

La Tomatina is an annual festival held in Buñol on the last Wednesday of August. Its origins date back to 1945, when a spontaneous food fight during a local celebration eventually developed into the tradition known today.

Since then, La Tomatina has grown into an internationally recognised event, attracting visitors from around the world while maintaining its roots in the local community.

What Happens on the Day?

The celebrations begin in the morning, as visitors gather in the streets of Buñol and prepare for the main event.

• The Palo Jabón

Before the tomato fight, participants traditionally attempt to climb a greased wooden pole with a ham positioned at the top. Known as the Palo Jabón, it is one of the traditional spectacles of the festival.

• The Tomato Fight

Around noon, trucks carrying more than 100 metric tons of tomatoes enter the town centre. Once the official signal sounds, the tomato fight begins.

For approximately one hour, thousands of participants throw, crush and cover one another with ripe tomatoes. When the second signal sounds, the fight officially ends and no more tomatoes can be thrown.

The streets are then washed down, while participants begin cleaning themselves and changing into dry clothes.

La Tomatina Rules and Safety

Despite its playful nature, there are several important rules to follow:

• Only tomatoes should be thrown. Bottles, stones and other hard objects are prohibited.

• Crush tomatoes before throwing them to reduce their impact.

• Do not deliberately tear or pull other people's clothing.

• Keep a safe distance from the tomato trucks.

• Stop throwing immediately when the second signal sounds.

• Follow instructions from event staff throughout the celebration.

What Should You Wear?

La Tomatina is definitely not the place for your favourite clothes. Wear old, comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting covered in tomato pulp.

Closed shoes with a good grip are recommended, as the streets can quickly become wet and slippery. It is also useful to bring a change of clothes and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Most importantly, expect to get messy — getting covered in tomatoes is part of the experience.

Getting to La Tomatina from Valencia

Located around 38 kilometres from Valencia, Buñol is easily accessible from the city. However, thousands of visitors travel to the festival on the same day, so roads and public transport can become particularly busy.

For travellers looking for a more comfortable and organised journey, LocalRydes provides private chauffeur transportation between Valencia and Buñol. A pre-arranged vehicle allows you to travel directly from your accommodation to the festival without having to navigate crowded public transport or worry about driving and parking.

After the event, your private chauffeur can take you back to Valencia, providing a convenient way to end a day that is likely to be considerably messier than it began.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to reach the town centre before the crowds become larger.
• Bring only what you need. Keep valuables to a minimum and protect anything you take with you from water and tomato pulp.
• Plan your return. Thousands of people will be leaving Buñol after the event, so arranging your transportation in advance can save time and stress.
• Embrace the experience. La Tomatina is intentionally chaotic. The best way to enjoy it is to accept the mess and take part.

Experience La Tomatina 2026

For one day each year, Buñol becomes the setting for one of Spain's most distinctive celebrations. With thousands of international visitors, more than 100 metric tons of tomatoes and one unforgettable hour of organised chaos, La Tomatina 2026 promises an experience unlike any other.

If you are travelling from Valencia, planning your journey with LocalRydes in advance can make the day more seamless — leaving you free to enjoy the festival, get covered in tomatoes and make the most of this extraordinary Spanish tradition.