After a procession to the source of the mud, the locals bring it back to the village and, with the help of a few municipal hosepipes, have a huge mud fight. It's great but very messy fun. 

La Atalaya's main annual festivities are always at the end of June and the start of July and include lots of cultural events and workshops dedicated to pottery. La Atalaya is one of the few places on the island that keeps up pre-Hispanic potting and firing techniques (the island's Canarii inhabitants didn't use a potting wheel). 

The 2015 Traida del Barro procession and mudfest is on July 11. The muddy bit starts at 16.30. Arrive well in advance as parking can be a problem.

Click here for more Traida del Barro mudfest photos