La Tomatina is an annual festival held in Buñol, Spain, renowned for its massive tomato-throwing event. In 2026, the festival is scheduled for Wednesday, August 26th. The origins of La Tomatina trace back to 1945, when a local altercation during a parade led to a spontaneous tomato fight among participants. This impromptu event became an annual tradition, evolving into the world-famous festival it is today. Each year, thousands of participants from around the globe converge in Buñol to engage in the tomato-throwing battle. The event typically begins around noon, with trucks delivering overripe tomatoes to the town square. The signal to start the fight is the firing of water cannons, and the battle continues for approximately one hour. Afterward, fire trucks are used to clean the streets, and participants often wash off in the Buñol River.

For those planning to attend, it's important to note that official tickets are required for entry. Since 2013, the number of participants has been limited to 20,000 to ensure safety and manage the event effectively. Tickets can be purchased through official channels, and various tour packages are available, including transportation and accommodation options.