Medieval-Style Salad Battle: The Year’s Most Joyful 'War' Takes Place in Villena (Alicante)!

Medieval-Style Salad Battle: The Year’s Most Joyful 'War' Takes Place in Villena (Alicante)!

This weekend — on 8 March 2026 — the small town of Villena in Alicante province transforms into a true medieval arena of fun and green “ammunition”. The highlight is the famous Salad Battle (Batalla de las Lechugas), affectionately dubbed “La Lechuguina” by locals.

Thousands of participants dressed in medieval costumes gather in the square at the foot of the castle to “battle”… with giant heads of lettuce! White and green “armies” exchange powerful throws; the air fills with flying leaves, laughter, and cries of joy. Anyone can join — just show up and pick a side.

This year, the event kicks off at 11:00 a.m. at the Explanada entrance to Castillo de Villena and is open to all. The atmosphere is extraordinary: live music, dancing, a medieval market, a torchlight procession (the evening before), knightly tournaments, and even theatrical weddings. All this forms part of the three-day Fiestas del Medievo 2026, running from 6 to 8 March and turning Villena’s historic centre into a living Middle Ages set.

One participant (in fact, a participant of any gender) vividly captured the emotions:

“An experience you must live at least once in your life! Immersing yourself in this celebration is unforgettable. Thank you, Villena — and thank you to everyone who makes this magic possible!”

If you’re in Alicante, on the Costa Blanca, or simply seeking unique experiences — Villena in March is absolutely worth your attention.