Some holidays are more exotic than others. La Tomatina is one of the most unusual celebrations you can find in the world. In this WebQuest you will investigate more about this strange festivity.

Activity 1

Go to the link below, read the text and complete this paragraph that will summarize La Tomatina:

The festival of La Tomatina takes place in (1) ________________, Spain, on the last (2) ________________ of (3) ________________ every year. This industrial town is (4) ________________ km from (5) ________________, the capital of Andalucia. During the celebration, over (6) ________________ people throw large (7) ________________ at each other. The festival began in (8) ________________.

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Activity 2

In this activity you will find out more about this unusual festival. There are four topics below. Investigate them using the links provided. You can work alone or in groups and present your findings in a written or oral report. You might want to illustrate your reports with images. The sites have lots of interesting pictures.

Topic 1: History

How did the festival start? There are five theories presented in the websites:

• a local food fight among friends
• an anti-Franco protest
• a juvenile class war
• by bystanders at a carnival parade
• as a practical joke
  

Read about the five theories and summarize them in your report. Which theory do you think is the most logical?

Topic 2: The Festival

1. When and how does it begin?
2. How many tomatoes are available?
   
3. Who throws the tomatoes?
4. How long does it last?
   
5. How does it end?
6. How do they clean up all the tomatoes?

Topic 3: Advice

Most things in life are controlled by rules and La Tomatina isn't different.

1. What rules exist in La Tomatina?
   
2. What advice would you give to anyone who wants to take part in the festival?

Prepare an original list of rules and tips for possible visitors.

Topic 4: Other events

There are many other events and activities at La Tomatina.

1. What can you do before the tomato-throwing begins?
2. Where can you visit in the surrounding area if you don't want to throw tomatoes?
   

Prepare a list of possible activities for different kinds of tourists: teenagers, families and older visitors.