FAQS | La Tomatina Experts

When is La Tomatina held each year?

La Tomatina is always held on the last Wednesday of August each year. Read full article – Date of La Tomatina

What time does the tomato fight start and finish?

The tomato battle starts at 12:00 when the start rocket sounds and finishes at 13:00 after the finish rocket sounds. It lasts just for one hour. Read the full article here – How long does La Tomatina Last

Where exactly is La Tomatina and how far is Buñol from Valencia?

The tomato fight takes place in Buñol, about 40–45 km west of Valencia. Travel time is roughly 30–60 minutes each way. Read the full article here – Where Is La Tomatina Celebrated

Do I need an official ticket or wristband to enter the tomato fight?

Yes. Official access to the tomato fight street zones requires a valid wristband. Read the full article here – La Tomatina Tickets

How and where do I collect my wristband or welcome pack?

If you have booked a tour with operators like PP TRAVEL then they will have already provided you with your entry passes. Otherwise you must line up in what can be very long lines, and exchange your ticket at official collection points for your entry wristband in Buñol. Your ticket provider should provide details on how/where/when to do this if they are reputable. Read the full article here – La Tomatina Tickets

Are backpacks, bags or bottles allowed inside the fight area?

No bags and no glass or hard objects are allowed inside the fight streets.

What should I wear to La Tomatina (clothes, footwear, goggles)?

Wear old clothes, closed trainers and goggles if you must for Instagram shots, but a baseball cap is often a better choice than goggles for various reasons. Avoid flip-flops and anything clothes you don’t want completely ruined. Read the full article here – What to Wear to La Tomatina

Are cameras, phones and GoPros allowed? Are selfie sticks allowed?

Small devices are taken at your own risk. We’ve seen people get in with GoPros, and we’ve seen people refused entry with GoPros. Hard objects such as selfie sticks are generally not allowed for safety.

Is there a minimum age? Can kids or minors take part?

There is no strict age limit, but participation is generally recommended for 14+. There is a “secret” family zone tomato drop at one end of the tomato zone that is far less crowded than right in the middle of the action. A separate Kids’ Tomatina (ages 4–12) runs days before.

Is La Tomatina safe for solo travellers and first-timers?

Yes the event is perfectly safe for all types of travellers. If you follow the rules, avoid the tightest crush in the centre of the tomato fight, and keep clear of the trucks, you’ll enjoy a great time at the festival. Read the full article here – Is La Tomatina Safe to Attend

What are the official rules I must follow during the tomato fight?

No bottles or hard objects. Do not rip or throw T-shirts. Squash tomatoes before throwing. Keep distance from trucks. Stop throwing at the sound of the second rocket. Read the full article here – What Are the Rules of La Tomatina

How many people can participate? Is there a capacity limit?

Attendance is limited to roughly 20,000–22,000 participants.

How do I get from Valencia to Buñol and back on the day?

Most travellers use pre-booked buses and tour companies from central Valencia. Plan early as roads and the core area are controlled and it is impossible to close to town by taxi.

Where is the meeting point in Valencia and what time do buses leave?

The meeting point for buses to Bunol from Valencia varies by tour providers and local bus companies. Common central points include the IVAM. Expect early morning departures; check your ticket. PP Travel departs from their separate accommodation centres with day trips departing from out the front of the Las Artes 4 Star Hotel near the City of Arts and Sciences

What happens if I miss the morning bus or the return bus?

You will need to make your own way to or from Buñol and contact your provider if you do not have your entry pass. Seats are not always transferable. It may be very difficult to find your provider once in Bunol so the best course of action is to NOT miss your transport option out to Bunol.

Are there lockers or a cloakroom to store valuables?

Yes, well to an extent anyway. They are not actually lockable lockers, more like a secure area that is monitored by staff in some of the the pre-La Tomatina party zones in Buñol.

Are there showers or wash-down areas after the fight?

There are wash-down points and locals often hose people down. Streets are cleaned quickly.

Are meals or drinks included with any packages? Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

Only if specified. Many vendors offer food and drink add-ons, including vegetarian and vegan choices.

What is the Tomatina After Party and how do I get in?

It is a ticketed evening party in Valencia. Entry is via a separate wristband or package add-on.

Can I just watch without joining the fight? Are there spectator areas?

You can watch from edges, but the core streets require an official wristband, and realistically, once you’re in, well then you’re in, and there will be tomatoes, so look out. It’s pretty much impossible not to be involved in some way if you enter the tomato zone.

What is the “palo jabón” ham-pole event and when does it happen?

It is a greased-pole climb held in the morning. The fight starts after the signal rocket sounds regardless of the pole outcome.

Will tomatoes stain skin or clothing? Any tips to protect eyes and skin?

Clothes may stain and may not recover. Wear hats or goggles and old clothes; the citric acid helps street cleaning.

Can I wear glasses or contact lenses during the fight?

You can, but goggles are safer. If you wear contacts, consider sealed goggles.

Is travel insurance recommended?

Yes. Conditions are crowded, wet and slippery, so insurance is sensible.

Can I bring cash or pay by card in Buñol?

Carry some cash. Small vendors and bars may be cash-first when it is busy.

Can I drive to Buñol? Is there parking near the festival?

Access and parking are restricted on festival day. Organised transport is usually easiest. It is usually very difficult to find parking anywhere near the tomato fight and you would probably be forced to walk a long distance to gain entry

What is the refund or cancellation policy for tickets and packages?

Policies vary by seller, tour operator and date. Always check your provider’s terms before buying.

Where do the tomatoes come from and are they edible?

They are grown for the event and not for suitable for eating; around 120 tonnes are used each year.

What accessibility considerations are there for people with reduced mobility?

The core zone is dense, wet and slippery. Edge viewing or a balcony is safer than joining the crush. In reality this is not an event set up in anyway for those with accessibility issues.

What are the best places to stay in Valencia for La Tomatina and how early should I book?

PP Travel has the best range of hotels of all the tour operators for La Tomatina from 3 star to 5 star options. Book 4–6 months in advance near central pick-up points for the easiest transport on the day.