Flour, eggs and fireworks fly as Spaniards stage traditional mock battle
Residents of the Spanish town of Ibi have once again taken part in the annual festival known as Els Enfarinats, transforming the streets into a chaotic scene of flour clouds, broken eggs, and loud firecrackers. The long-running event, held each year in late December, is one of Spain’s most unusual cultural traditions and attracts both locals and visitors.
During the festival, participants split into opposing groups and stage a mock coup, symbolically taking control of the town for the day. Armed with bags of flour, eggs, and small fireworks, the groups engage in a playful but intense “battle,” covering streets, buildings, and participants from head to toe. By the end of the event, the town is blanketed in white flour and eggshells.
Despite the messy appearance, the festival is carefully organised with safety measures in place. Participants wear protective clothing and goggles, and authorities oversee the use of fireworks. Money collected through fines issued by the mock rulers is later donated to charity, giving the event a social purpose beyond entertainment.
The origins of Els Enfarinats date back more than two centuries and are believed to symbolise satire of authority and social order. For residents of Ibi, the festival is a point of local pride and a way to preserve cultural heritage while celebrating humour and community spirit.
Once the mock battle ends, extensive cleaning efforts begin to restore the town, marking the conclusion of a tradition that combines chaos, history, and celebration in equal measure.