Discover the unique Els Enfarinats festival in Ibi, Spain, where an epic food fight with eggs and flour marks the Day of the Innocents every year.

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Els Enfarinats Festival: Ibi’s Unique Annual Food Fight

The Els Enfarinats festival is a one-of-a-kind event held annually in Ibi, a town in the Alicante province of Spain. Every year, the streets become a battleground, blanketed in a mix of flour and egg shells as locals celebrate this entertaining and historic tradition.

What is Els Enfarinats?

Originating over 200 years ago, the Els Enfarinats festival takes place on the 28th of December, coinciding with the Day of the Innocents—Spain’s own version of April Fools’ Day. During the festival, participants dress in military-style costumes and stage a playful ‘coup’ using eggs, flour, and firecrackers, creating an unforgettable and chaotic spectacle.

How the Tradition Works

• Participants, known as “eggers,” parade through the town.
• They “collect taxes” from locals—these are actually donations to charity.
• Those who refuse to pay are playfully “punished” by being pelted with eggs and flour.

The event is not only a riotous, joyful mess but also helps support local charities, making Els Enfarinats a celebration with heart.

Why Visit Ibi During Els Enfarinats?

Visiting Ibi during this lively festival offers a glimpse into Spanish cultural traditions and community spirit. Witness the streets transform into a whitewashed playground of laughter, tradition, and generosity.

Looking to explore more unique holidays in Spain? Check out our article on Spanish festivals you should know.

Learn More

To discover more about how the Els Enfarinats festival is celebrated annually and its cultural impact, visit the BBC’s feature on Els Enfarinats.

Video editing by Zahra Fatima and Jack Burgess