Batalla del Vino / Haro Wine Festival – La Rioja, Spain

The Batalla del Vino (Haro Wine Battle Festival) is one of the most unusual and lively festivals in La Rioja, held every year on 29 June, the feast day of Saint Peter. The event takes place in the town of Haro and nearby countryside, attracting both locals and visitors looking for a unique cultural experience. In 2026 it was celebrated on Monday 29 June, and the next battle is on Tuesday 29 June 2027. It grew out of an old romería (pilgrimage) to the Hermitage of San Felices and was declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in 2011.

The celebration begins early in the morning, when participants dressed in white clothing gather in Haro and make their way—often on foot or by vehicles—to the cliffs of Riscos de Bilibio, about 6 km from the town. This scenic area near the Hermitage of San Felices becomes the main stage of the event.

What Happens During the Wine Battle

From early morning the “battle” rages: thousands of participants throw, spray, and pour red wine on each other using buckets, bottles, water guns, and even agricultural sprayers, and more than 40,000 litres of wine are used. The goal is simple: to soak everyone in wine until clothes turn completely purple. The atmosphere is playful and communal rather than competitive, with music, dancing, and laughter throughout the event.

After the battle and a mass at the hermitage, people return to Haro, where the festivities continue in the Plaza de la Paz with music, food, and local wine. For tourists, it is recommended to wear old white clothes and a red neckerchief, protective footwear, and bring goggles if desired. Early arrival is essential to join the procession, and transport should be planned in advance due to large crowds.

Overall, the Batalla del Vino offers a unique blend of tradition, humor, and regional identity, making it one of Spain’s most memorable and photogenic festivals.