Have you ever heard of Fallas Valencia? For many people outside of Spain it is quite unknown.
At least, out of everybody I asked, nobody knew what it was. Quite a pity though, sice it is definitely one of the biggest traditions in Spain.
Fallas takes place in the city of Valencia, from the 1st to the 19th of March. This festivity is a truly mixture of tradition, art, and community celebration.
Do you like either fireworks, atmosphere, and or party? Then you should be at Fallas, in Valencia during March. Streets are always full of people, good food and music. During the night streets are an open (free-accesible) party with dj’s (discomoviles) and big tents.
But Falla’s is a also great event for art lovers. Read here and find out why.
An introduction to Fallas
Many people of Spain come to visit Valencia during this month, only for Fallas. Streets are crowded, people visit Mascleta’s (huge firework shows), and there is atmosphere in every corner in the Valencian streets.
For some it get’s to crowded, as people who live in the city sometimes move to their families way from the city centre to avoid all the noise and party. But for any Fallas lover, or young people, it is one of the greatest festivities out there.
This exciting festival draws both locals and tourists to enjoy every part of it. It began as a day to honor Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. Over the years, this simple celebration has turned into a grand welcome for spring, where old things are burned to make way for the new. And every year it get’s bigger, more known, more firework shows and more events.
History of Fallas and how it became like it is today
At its core, Fallas is a celebration of Valencian culture that originated from an old carpenter’s tradition.
Back in the Middle Ages, carpenters would burn wooden planks and scraps from their workshops on March 19th (St. Joseph’s Day) to celebrate the arrival of spring.
Over time, this evolved into dressing up the wooden planks to resemble people, often with satirical features mimicking locals. Children would collect old furniture and flammable objects to add to these early “ninots.”
While the origins were about welcoming spring, the festival grew into an artistic celebration where neighborhoods commission elaborate satirical sculptures (fallas) to be burned on the final night.
This burning symbolizes letting go of the past and making way for new beginnings, despite the months of effort by artisans in creating these masterpieces.
What do they celebrate during Fallas?
Why all the giant sculptures and bonfires, you might ask? Fallas is all about renewal and bringing people together.
The big finale of the festival is setting the Fallas (these huge, beautiful sculptures) on fire.
I think it is a pity since it takes artists a lot of effort (months if not the whole year) and a lot of money to create these.
These larger-than-life creations are crafted by skilled artisans to criticise or poke fun at political figures, celebrities, and current events.
Burning them means getting rid of the old to start fresh.
How Do They Dress During Fallas?
Imagine everyone dressed up like they’re from the 1700s. Women wear gorgeous, full-length silk dresses with fancy lace and ribbons, along with big, decorated hairdos. Men wear historical shirts, vests, and pants, looking like gentlemen from the past. These outfits aren’t just for fun—they show respect for their history and make everyone feel part of the celebration.
Falleras and Falleros
The stars of Fallas are the ‘falleras’ and ‘falleros,’ chosen by their communities to represent them. Being a fallera or fallero is a big deal. They lead parades, join in all the events, and dress in beautiful traditional clothes, showing off the pride and spirit of their local areas.
The Fiery spectacle
But Fallas Valencia is so much more than just the sculptures. It’s a vibrant celebration that takes over the entire city for nearly a month!
The streets come alive with music, dance, and the aroma of traditional Valencian delicacies wafting through the air. People are allowed to celebrate with firecrackers, which you will hear everywhere around the alleyways, bringing some atmosphere.
The thing I like the most about fallas are the “Mascletàs,” a big firework show which goes that hard it will make you feel like you are standing on a shaking ground. It is absolutely breathtaking and it gives me goosebumps everytime again.
It takes place daily in the city center, starting from around the end of february until the end of the feast, which is the 19th of March. Mascletas are free to visit, everyday from 14:00 (it lasts about 10 – 15 minutes) and now and then during the evenings (mascletas nocturnas) at 12:00 clockwise.
Which events are there during Fallas?
Fallas Valencia is a month-long celebration filled with a variety of events and activities that will keep you entertained from dawn till dusk.
Opening Night (La Crida)
The festival kicks off with “La Crida,” a ceremonial event where the “Fallera Mayor” (the festival’s queen) officially declares the start of Fallas. This is accompanied by fireworks, music, and the traditional “mascletà” (a deafening pyrotechnic display).
La Despertà
Each morning during Fallas, the streets come alive with the sound of traditional music and firecrackers, signaling the start of a new day’s festivities. This event, known as “La Despertà,” is a lively wake-up call that sets the tone for the day ahead.
La Mascletà
One of the highlights is La Mascletà, a massive daytime fireworks show right in the city square. But it’s not just about seeing the fireworks—it’s about feeling them. The booms are so powerful they shake the ground, and the rhythm feels like a heartbeat, bringing everyone together.
L’Ofrena de flors
Midway through Fallas, the mood changes to something more touching during L’Ofrena de flors. People in their finest outfits walk through the city, bringing flowers to a statue of the Virgin Mary.
I find the sight of so many flowers and colors beautiful, and I think it shows how much they care about their traditions.
Els Castells and La Nit del Foc
“Els Castells” are impressive human towers formed by skilled performers, showcasing the strength and agility of the Valencian people. Meanwhile, “La Nit del Foc” (Night of Fire) is a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky, marking the climax of the festival.
Cavalcada del Foc
And finally, Cavalcada del Foc closes the festival. This fiery parade is a mix of costumes, performers, and special effects, showing the fiery heart and creative spirit of Valencia.
Fallas is also a feast for senses
But Fallas isn’t just about the noise and spectacle; it’s also a celebration of Valencian culture and traditions. You’ll find yourself immersed in the rich history and customs of this region, from the traditional costumes and dances to the mouthwatering cuisine.
Speaking of food, you simply can’t miss out on the local delicacies during Fallas. There are streets full of foodtrucks in and around the city centre. You can get your hands on the well known Spanish “Churros” with chocolate or the typical hot “buñuelos” ( delicious fried dough fritters) or eat a “paella” (the iconic Valencian rice dish).
A Celebration Like No Other
Fallas Valencia is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you in awe. From the breathtaking sculptures to the vibrant street parties, this festival is a celebration of life, art, and the indomitable spirit of the Valencian people.
So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars and plan your trip to Valencia for the next Fallas celebration. Trust me, it’s an experience you’ll never forget – a feast for the senses that will leave you craving more of this incredible Spanish tradition.