Buñol's Tomatina draws 22,000 with record 150 tonnes of tomatoes

Buñol, Spain, hosted its 79th La Tomatina on Wednesday, with 22,000 participants hurling a record 150,000 kilograms (150 tonnes) of tomatoes during the hour-long battle Source: El Mundo. The festival, held each last Wednesday of August, sold out for the third consecutive year Source: Clarín.

Record turnout and tomatoes

This year's edition used 30,000 kilos more than in 2025, when 120,000 kilos were thrown Source: La Vanguardia. The tomatoes, of the pera variety, are grown exclusively for the event in Don Benito, Badajoz, and are not fit for human consumption Source: Infobae. Seven trucks distributed the fruit along the town's central streets Source: ABC.

International appeal and accessibility

Around 40% of attendees came from abroad, with a notable surge in Indian visitors inspired by the 2011 Bollywood film 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' Source: Euronews. Organizers emphasized inclusivity this year, adding pictograms, a '+ACCESIBLE' wristband, and a reinforced volunteer team to assist people with disabilities Source: El Confidencial.

Incidents and safety

Four people were treated for eye irritation after someone sprayed pepper gas during the event; all were released on the spot Source: ABC. The municipality confirmed only four minor incidents overall Source: El Mundo.

Origins and tradition

The festival traces back to a street brawl in 1945, was banned under Franco, and resumed in 1959 with official rules Source: Euronews. The only rule remains that tomatoes must be squashed before throwing Source: Euronews.