Complete Guide To La Tomatina:
Essential Insider Tips
- Lucie Viktorin
- 6 Minute Read
- Subscribe To The Newsletter Here
Attending La Tomatina was an incredible experience, filled with the thrilling chaos of the world’s largest tomato fight. However, looking back, I realized that being prepared mentally, would have made the event even more enjoyable. That’s why I’ve created a complete guide to La Tomatina. This three-part guide offers a thorough overview of what La Tomatina is, what to expect, and key tips to ensure you have a fantastic time. Welcome to the second part of this guide: La Tomatina Essential Insider Tips. Let’s dive in!
What To Wear
Choose old clothes you don’t mind throwing away afterward. Apply the same rule to shoes and possibly even opt for cheap water shoes, as you will be ankle deep in tomato juice.
Insider Tip:
Wear a white shirt, one that you don’t mind ruining and bring a black marker. With that you can have your friends sign your soon-to-be-covered-in-tomatoes top and create your very own souvenir. My friends and I did this on the train to Buñol. After signing each others shirts it didn’t take long till other travelers asked to have their shirts signed. It was an amazing bonding experience pre-fight, not gonna lie!
What To Bring
Pack a waterproof bag in case you want to bring your phone to take photos. Most definitely wear goggles to protect your eyes from tomato juice.
Insider Tip:
It is probably not wise to attempt to take photos during the fight, as you might get bumped into a lot by other contestants. Enjoy the fight, and save the photo-taking for post-fight when you can relish in the red sea of tomatoes.
Getting There
Arrive in Buñol early to secure a good spot and soak in the festive atmosphere. The town becomes crowded quickly, so plan your travel accordingly.
Insider Tip:
Keep in mind that you might also need extra time to find the correct stall or tent, where to secure your bags and valuables. I wished the locating of it would be more straightforward, but it isn’t. That is just something we need to live with. Which is why it is best to take care of the organizational parts of the day swiftly, so that you can enjoy the party mood longer and without stress.
What Not To Do
Do not bring any bags and objects other than your covered phone to the throwing area. Security will not let you on the premises otherwise.
Insider Tip:
This is not an exaggeration. While going through security, I’ve seen people who were turned away because they tried to enter with their backpacks or even small handbags.
How To Protect Valuables
Keep your phone in a waterproof bag and bring it with you in case of photos. Leave your keys, wallet and everything else in your backpack.
Insider Tip:
I was initially worried about keeping all my valuables in the locker area, but there was truly no issue with anything. In the end, I even left my phone in my backpack and we got everything back without worry.
Timeline Expectations
The start of La Tomatina is signaled by a cannon shot at 11 AM. The end is signaled exactly one hour later at 12.
Insider Tip:
The cannon shots are at 11 and 12, but they don’t mark the exact start and end. Following Spanish traditions, the trucks were late with their unloading, so the throwing didn’t begin until around 11:15. Likewise, the fun didn’t stop immediately with the second shot, and the tomato fight continued for about 15 to 30 minutes afterward.
Dealing With The Tomatoes
As it is a tomatoe-throwing festival and you’re planning on attending, simply be aware that there is no way to avoid getting tomatoes in your face. A thing you should be even more aware of is how bad the smell and taste can be.
Insider Tip:
While most sources say the tomatoes are “overripe”, my experience suggest that some are downright rotten, given their smell and taste. The first tomato to hit your face might be a shock, but once you’re surrounded by them, the smell becomes nonexistent. Because let’s face it, you’ll smell like those tomatoes. However, the taste is another story – it’s something you won’t get used to. The best approach is to accept that you will taste some of the juices, make peace with it, and try to keep your mouth closed as much as possible.
Washing After The Fight
Cleaning up after La Tomatina is a must. You won’t be able to use any of the public transportation if you don’t get at least most of the pulp off. Thankfully there are multiple options available: the little creek at the bottom of the town, set up showers close to the train station or citizens with their garden hoses.
Insider Tip:
Please don’t try to take a full shower with shampoo and body wash. Use the washing stations to remove the tomatoes so you can use public transportation and avoid dirtying your car. Save the thorough cleaning and smell removal for home!
Regarding the cleaning options, I recommend bringing some cash if you plan on using the garden hoses to help the people there with their water bills. If you don’t have cash, the little creek is a good option for a bath, but be prepared for some tomato pieces floating by. I personally found that part highly amusing!
As you can see,
being well-prepared with these essential insider tips will make your experience during the La Tomatina festivities even better. Embrace the fun, stay safe, and make the most of this unforgettable festival!
For further insights, check out the first part of this guide, ‘What La Tomatina Is & What to Expect’ and don’t miss the third part, ‘Good to Knows’, to ensure you’re fully equipped for an amazing time at this year’s tomato fight!Happy tomato-fest!
And feel free to share on:
Leave a Reply