Stunning new photographs have emerged capturing the explosive and messy chaos of one of Spain's most unique annual celebrations. The images show the town of Ibi transformed into a cloud of white powder during the legendary Els Enfarinats festival.
A Day of Anarchic Tradition
The event, which took place on Sunday 28 December 2025, saw participants engage in a full-scale, good-natured battle using an unusual arsenal. The primary weapons of choice were flour, eggs, and firecrackers, turning the streets into a vibrant, if somewhat hazardous, spectacle. This centuries-old tradition, specific to the town of Ibi, involves a group known as 'Els Enfarinats' – which translates roughly to 'the floured ones' – staging a mock coup d'état for the day.
The Ritual of the Flour War
The curated photo gallery, selected by Associated Press photo editors, vividly documents the ritual. Revelers, dressed in an eccentric mix of military-style uniforms and civilian clothing, can be seen hurling bags of flour and eggs at each other with great enthusiasm. The air is thick with powder, and the crackle of firecrackers adds to the cacophony. The 'battle' is a central part of the festival's narrative, where the self-proclaimed rulers impose humorous fines on locals, with the collected money later donated to charity.
The festival is a deeply rooted cultural event in the Valencian Community, blending satire, tradition, and community spirit. While it appears anarchic, the proceedings follow a well-understood local protocol that has been passed down through generations. The visual spectacle of streets and participants coated head-to-toe in flour provides a powerful draw for photographers and visitors alike.
More Than Just a Messy Spectacle
Beyond the obvious visual comedy and chaos, Els Enfarinats serves a important social function. It acts as a pressure valve and a celebration of local identity. The event underscores the rich tapestry of regional festivals found across Spain, each with its own distinct character and history. For the residents of Ibi, it is a proud and eagerly anticipated highlight of the festive calendar, marking the day after Christmas with unforgettable, flour-filled fervour.
The successful staging of the 2025 event, as shown in the photographs, demonstrates the resilience of such traditions. It offers a colourful reminder of the diverse and often playful ways communities around the world celebrate their heritage, creating shared memories literally etched in flour.
