My first response to seeing this post about the Mighty Wine Fight is, when can we adopt this wild, amusing activity in Sonoma and Napa? Here’s what’s happening in La Rioja –
Each year between the 27th and 30th of June, thousands of thirsty locals and a handful of lucky (wine addicted) tourists climb a mountain in La Rioja, Spain, and throw the sweet red liquid all over each other. This is St Peter’s Feast Day, though you’d be lucky to find a local who could tell you so, and the event is known around these parts as La Batalla del Vino de Haro – or better known by us guiris as the Wine Fight.
When It Begins
The madness of the annual wine fight starts the night before, on the evening of the 28th of June. This is by far the biggest party that the quaint town of Haro sees. As the night unfolds, the whole town gathers on the streets, from children to grandparents, who all party the night away in the town’s cobbled streets, buzzing bars and picturesque Spanish squares.
As If That Isn’t Enough
After a few hours of frolicking and fun, the fight descends down the mountain and moves into the town of Haro, where the only fight is done with traditional dances – the kind that can only be induced by hours of red wine pouring down one’s throat.
Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Don’t miss your chance to take part in the Wine Fight, also known as the Batalla del Vino en Haro.
For the history and more news click here.