Batalla del Vino de Haro 2026

Every June 29, the quiet Riojan town of Haro transforms into a battlefield. The Batalla del Vino (Wine Battle) is exactly what it sounds like: thousands of people climb the hill to the Riscos de Bilibio and proceed to drench each other in red wine using buckets, water pistols, spray bottles, and anything else that holds liquid. It is simultaneously one of the most absurd and most joyful wine events on earth.

How It Works

The day starts early. Around 7am, participants gather in Haro's main plaza for a procession up the hill to the Riscos de Bilibio, led by the town's mayor on horseback. A mass is held at the hermitage of San Felices de Bilibio at the top. After the religious ceremony, the mayor fires a rocket — and the wine battle begins.

For the next two hours, the hillside descends into cheerful chaos. Every participant wears white clothing, which is entirely stained purple by the end. The wine used is not fine Rioja — it is cheap red wine bought in bulk specifically for the occasion. Organisers estimate that between 50,000 and 70,000 litres of wine are poured, sprayed, and thrown during a typical battle.

The battle winds down by mid-morning, and the crowd descends back to Haro, where the streets are already set up for a day of eating, drinking, dancing, and a traditional running of the bulls in the afternoon.

What to Bring

Wear all white — this is tradition, and you will stand out (in a bad way) if you do not. Old white clothes that you can throw away afterwards are ideal. Bring at least one container for wine: a bucket, a large water gun, a spray bottle, or a bota bag (leather wineskin). You can also buy these from vendors in Haro on the morning of the event.

Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip — the hillside gets slippery from spilled wine. Leave valuables at your accommodation. Bring a waterproof phone pouch if you want photos. A change of clothes stashed in a car or locker is essential for the afternoon.

Getting There

Haro is in the Rioja Alta subregion, about 45 minutes northwest of Logrono and 90 minutes south of Bilbao. If you are driving, park early — by 6am the streets around the centre are closed. Many visitors stay in Logrono or Bilbao and arrange transport to Haro for the morning. Buses run from both cities, with extra services laid on for the festival.

Where to Stay

Haro itself has limited accommodation that books out months in advance. The town of Laguardia (30 minutes south) and the city of Logrono (45 minutes east) offer more options. Haro's Station Quarter — the historic bodega district where several of Rioja's oldest wineries are clustered — is worth visiting the day before or after the battle, when you can actually taste the wine rather than wear it.

Insider Tips

Get up to the hill early. The procession officially starts at 7am, but serious participants begin gathering at 6am to claim good spots. The battle itself is remarkably good-natured — aggression is extremely rare, and the atmosphere is closer to a music festival than a fight. Families with children participate, particularly around the edges of the main battle zone.

The afternoon fiesta in the town centre — live music, open-air bars, and food stalls — is almost as good as the battle itself. Haro's restaurants serve exceptional Riojan cuisine, and the bodegas in the Station Quarter often open their doors for tastings on June 29.