When: The last Wednesday of August, every year. Fixed date.
Tickets: Ticketed (required) — An official paid ticket is required and sells online ahead of time; bus-plus-entry packages from Valencia are the common way to go. Buy from the official seller or a reputable operator.
What it is
For one hour, tens of thousands pelt each other with over a hundred tonnes of tomatoes in the small town of Buñol — a joyful, messy free-for-all.
How to get started
- Buy an official entry ticket in advance — the event is capped (around 20,000 people) and you cannot just turn up.
- Decide between a standalone ticket and a bus package from Valencia, which most visitors use.
- Pack closed shoes, goggles and clothes you'll throw away.
Tickets & where to buy
An official paid ticket is required and sells online ahead of time; bus-plus-entry packages from Valencia are the common way to go. Buy from the official seller or a reputable operator.
- Where to stay
- Most people base in Valencia (about 40 minutes away) and travel in for the day.
- First-timer tips
- Wear closed-toe shoes and swim goggles, bring nothing you mind losing, and squash tomatoes before throwing (the rules require it).
- Watch out
- It's slippery and chaotic — protect your eyes and phone, and follow the stewards.
Several of these festivals are tied to Easter or a lunar calendar, so the exact dates shift each year. Confirm the current year's dates and ticket on-sale times from the official source before you book flights.