Spain is a country that truly knows how to celebrate! Whether it’s throwing tomatoes, jumping over babies, or drenching each other in wine, Spain's festivals are some of the most vibrant, bizarre, and fun-filled events in the world. If you're an expat in Spain, experiencing these wild traditions is a great way to embrace your new beginnings and immerse yourself in Spanish culture.

From ancient customs to modern-day spectacles, these unique festivals in Spain offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, let’s explore the top 6 weirdest and most exciting Spanish festivals that will leave you laughing, shocked, and completely in awe!

La Tomatina – The World’s Biggest Food Fight

📍 Buñol, Valencia – Last Wednesday of August

If you love chaos, fun, and lots of mess, then La Tomatina is the festival for you. This world-famous event attracts thousands of participants from all over the globe, turning the small town of Buñol into a gigantic tomato battleground.

The History Behind La Tomatina

La Tomatina started in 1945, but no one really knows why! Some believe it was a spontaneous food fight among friends, while others think it began as a protest against the authorities. Whatever the origin, the festival became so popular that it was officially recognized by the Spanish government in 1957.

What Happens During La Tomatina?

The event kicks off with the Palo Jabón, where people try to climb a greased pole to retrieve a ham at the top.

Once someone grabs the ham, the real fun begins—huge trucks arrive loaded with over 120,000 kilos of tomatoes.

For one hour, people go wild, throwing tomatoes at each other, covering the streets in red pulp.

After the battle, fire trucks spray down the streets, and locals even provide showers for the participants.

Tips for Expats and Travelers:

• Wear old clothes you don’t mind throwing away.
• Bring goggles—tomato juice in your eyes is no joke!
• Book accommodations early—Buñol gets crowded fast.
• Don’t bring valuables—your phone and wallet will get soaked.
• Would you dare to dive into this squishy madness?

El Colacho – The Baby Jumping Festival

📍 Castrillo de Murcia, Burgos – June

If you think jumping over babies sounds crazy, you’re not alone! This festival, known as El Colacho, is one of Spain’s most bizarre and fascinating traditions, dating back to 1620.

What is the Baby Jumping Festival?

Newborn babies are placed on mattresses in the middle of the street.

Men dressed as devils (El Colacho) run through the town whipping bystanders and jumping over the babies.

The ritual is believed to cleanse the babies of original sin and protect them from evil spirits.

The festival ends with a priest blessing the children and their families.

Is It Safe?

While it sounds terrifying, no baby has ever been injured in this centuries-old tradition. The "jumpers" are highly trained and take great care.

Why Expats Love It:

For those starting a new chapter as an expat in Spain, this festival is a great way to experience Spain’s deep-rooted traditions firsthand. It’s a mix of Catholic beliefs, superstition, and spectacle—truly one-of-a-kind!

Would you let someone jump over your baby for good luck?

Fiesta de Santa Marta de Ribarteme – The Near-Death Experience Festival

📍 Las Nieves, Galicia – July 29

This festival is both chilling and inspiring. Every year, people who have survived near-death experiences participate in a procession of open coffins to express their gratitude to Santa Marta, the saint of resurrection.

How It Works:

People who have survived accidents, life-threatening illnesses, or dangers lie inside coffins.

Family members carry the coffins through the town in a solemn procession.

The parade leads to the Church of Santa Marta, where prayers and blessings take place.

The eerie mood eventually transforms into a celebration with fireworks, music, and a huge feast.

Why It’s a Must-See:

This festival is a mix of religion, superstition, and human resilience. It may seem morbid, but for those who have cheated death, it’s an emotional and spiritual way to give thanks.

La Batalla del Vino – The Ultimate Wine Fight

📍 Haro, La Rioja – June 29

If you think wine is only for drinking, think again! La Batalla del Vino turns wine into weapons in one of Spain’s wildest and most fun festivals.

What to Expect:

Thousands of people dressed in white gather with buckets, bottles, and water guns filled with red wine.

The goal? Soak everyone in as much wine as possible!

The battle lasts for hours, followed by a massive feast and plenty of actual wine-drinking.

Why Expats Love It:

For those embracing new beginnings in Spain, this festival is a perfect way to bond with locals, let loose, and enjoy Spain’s passion for wine and fun.

Entroido de Laza – The Ant Throwing Festival

📍 Laza, Galicia – February (Carnival Season)

Spain’s Carnival season is full of crazy traditions, but Entroido de Laza takes things to the extreme. Why? Because participants throw live ants at each other!

Festival Highlights:

People catch ants, shake them up to make them angry, and then throw them.

Locals dress in colorful costumes, chase each other, and whip festival-goers.

The festival ends with a massive food fight using flour, dirt, and rags soaked in vinegar.

Día de los Enharinados – The Flour Fight Festival

📍 Ibi, Alicante – December 28

Think of April Fool’s Day, but with flour, eggs, and firecrackers! Día de los Enharinados is an annual mock military coup, where participants throw flour and eggs to “seize control” of the town for a day.

Why Expats Love It:

If you love pranks, chaos, and laughter, this festival is a must-experience.

Spain’s Festivals Are Unforgettable!

Whether you’re an expat in Spain or just visiting, these festivals will leave you with incredible memories, cultural insights, and lots of messy clothes.