History of the Fallas Festival in Valencia
No one is sure exactly when this celebration was created in history, but research shows that the origins of Fallas date back to the Middle Ages. The majority of historians agree that it may have been practiced during pre-Christian rituals, particularly involving the spring equinox celebrations.
The Origin of the Fallas in Valencia
By the late Middle Ages, Valencia’s carpenters celebrated Saint Joseph, their patron saint, on March 19th. During winter, they worked by the glow of wooden devices called parots, simple planks holding oil lamps. But, in spring, these were no longer needed. So, in a gesture both practical and symbolic, carpenters gathered up their parts and scraps of wood and burned them outside their workshops.
Gradually, this ritual extended to other inhabitants, and these bonfires evolved. Locals began dressing up their scrap wood with old furniture and clothes. Then, aiming to transform those piles into something more aesthetically pleasing, this blend of objects and waste becomes figures: the first ninots.
However, the real goal was to create an opportunity to make fun of neighbors, politicians, or societal quirks. Quickly, satire became the heart of the festival and the primary meaning of the Ninots.
Modern and Global Recognition
In 2016, Las Fallas was added to the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. If you ever attend this festival in Valencia, the creativity, community spirit, and historical importance are something truly tangible that you can almost touch.
Over two weeks, usually from the beginning of March, 700 monuments take place in the city. However, the culminating point happens in the Cremà, where all but one ninot spared by a jury vote are set on fire.
It is one of my favorite traditions I discovered when traveling slowly in Spain for over a year, allowing me to catch a glimpse of the local culture. Yet, for all its modern grandeur, the festival remains deeply rooted in its local community. Neighborhoods fundraise all year, building a communal spirit as they create sculptures, while artists pour hundreds of hours into designs destined to disappear in flames in mere minutes.
What to Expect During the Fallas Festival?
For two weeks, the whole city of Valencia doesn’t sleep. The first week begins by preparing the atmosphere and setting up scenes around the town. Kids play with firecrackers everywhere, and people are waiting for the weekend. Then, during the second week, it’s almost like a national holiday.
Most people don’t work, gather for a barbecue during the day, and party at night. The neighborhood, which has been working for a year on costumes, celebrations, parades, and music, wanders the streets, and the artists polish the last details of their Ninots. Here are the main events you shouldn’t miss during the Fallas festival in Valencia.
Main Events of the Fallas Festival
The Mascletà: March 1st-19th
On the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the city of Valencia is gearing up for the main festivities, which begin on March 1st. Every day at 2 p.m., the city hall held an impressive event called the mascletà.
It is more an auditory experience than a visual experience, but during 10 minutes, firecrackers explode in the sky, vibrating even the ground beneath your feet. You might have the impression of being transported to the center of a battleground, but it’s ok. It is an unmissable tradition of the Fallas, but if you don’t like loud sounds and crowds, please don’t go, as it can be overwhelming.
The Fallas Monument Exposition: Ciutat de las Ciencias, March 1st-14th
The exposition at the Museum of Science is a key activity leading up to the main event. It offers a glimpse into the artistry of Fallas. Admire and vote for your favorite of the miniature versions of the Ninots. With entry at 2€ or free, it’s your chance to appreciate the craftsmanship of the Artistas Falleros without embarking on an exhaustive walking tour of the city’s neighborhoods, trying to see each of them (a very long walk).
La Plantà: March 15th
The festival truly comes alive on March 15th with La Plantà. The city transforms overnight as over 700 Ninots are installed in public spaces, and the streets become pedestrian zones bustling with activity (woohoo!).
By the morning of March 16th, these artistic monuments must be complete for judging, setting the stage for the Ninot Indultat selection, the one figure spared from the flames. The Artistas Falleros and Fallas Commission work by shift all night to finish their hard work on time (no deadline extensions here, my friend).
Fireworks and Nit del Foc: March 15th-19th
As darkness falls, the sky over Valencia bursts into color with nightly fireworks displays from March 15th to 19th. Culminating in the Nit del Foc night, this tradition unites thousands of souls waiting for the light show, reaching its zenith in the early hours of March 18th.
That’s a worthwhile show, taking place at the City of Sciences, but you can also see it from the Alameda Bridge (one piece of advice: go there soon, as it becomes quickly crowded).
Flower Offering: March 17th-18th
This two-day event offers flowers to the patron saint of Valencia, Virgen de los Desamparados. Wearing traditional clothes, the Fallas Commission leads its parade to the Plaza de la Virgen. It culminates in a floral tapestry 15 meters high that adorns the cape of the Virgin. It’s a moving spectacle (and smell) not to be missed.
The Cremà: March 19th
At the heart of Las Fallas is the creation and subsequent destruction of the Ninots. These towering figures, some needing cranes for installation, tell the unique stories of each Falla. The climax? La Cremà, on March 19th, sees all Fallas consumed by fire (people like fire; I don’t know why, but I like it too).
This poignant act of destruction, beginning with smaller monuments at 8 p.m. and ending with the large ones by 10 p.m., is a spectacle of renewal and rebirth, with festivities drawing to a close at the burning of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento Ninot.
What to Eat in Valencia During the Fallas?
Regardless of whether you are visiting Valencia for 2 days or a week, one of the joys of experiencing Las Fallas is also diving into Valencia’s culinary traditions. After all, eating is part of the festive spirit and helps us through days and nights of celebrations. The festival is the perfect moment to taste the region’s most renowned dishes.
Paella Valenciana: A Local Legend
A few dishes are most famous in Valencia, like paella. This iconic meal is part of the city’s soul. Traditionally, it is prepared with rabbit, chicken, green beans, and garrofón (a type of large white bean) and simmered in large, thin saucepans.
It is not a dish exclusive to the Fallas festival but still takes on special significance during the event. The reason? In some evenings, grand paella competitions are organized, the most renowned being the International Valencian Paella Contest held in Sueca. Let there be no doubt, and give it a shot!
Buñuelos de Calabaza: The Sweet Essence of Fallas
If you smell frying dough on the streets, you’ll likely stumble upon a buñuelos de calabaza stand. They are made with zucchini flour, and I could easily eat a dozen of them. The outside is golden and crispy, while the inside is very fluffy. Ask any local, and he will tell you that it is one of the symbols of the Fallas festival, which is impossible to resist.
After trying many, the best way to enjoy them is warm, dipped into cups of thick, hot chocolate. It’s a very tempting ritual of the festival.
Horchata con Fartons: A Refreshing Pause
When the crowds and the fires leave you with a craving for something calm and gentle, go for a glass of horchata de chufa. This traditional drink, made from tiger nuts, has a particular flavor I love.
It is usually served cold with fartons, a sugar-glazed and soft pastry perfect for dipping into your horchata. You can find horchata stands scattered throughout Valencia.
What to Do After the Fallas?
Explore the Island of Mallorca
Right after the festival finishes, your journey doesn’t have to stop. It is an opportunity for you to explore the fantastic island of Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands. There is a ferry service linking the two destinations, which takes approximately 8 hours and is easily accessible and affordable, costing between 30 and 40€ one way.
Usually depicted as a tourist hub and lacking authentic culture, Mallorca displays a different aspect during the shoulder seasons. With the Fallas festival ending at the beginning of April, you are at the perfect time to go. Outside of the summer, the Balearic islands are full of authenticity, local traditions, and prices, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. Therefore, jump on the boat and embark on a memorable itinerary in Mallorca!
Discover the Spanish Basque Country
If you’re looking for a part of Spain that you’ve never heard of but is the most traditional and authentic, you’re in the right place. Before discovering this region, I was clueless about its potential, but things have changed now. The Spanish Basque Country is one of Spain’s most treasured regions, boasting hidden gems, rich traditions, natural beauty, and a rich history.
The Basques are one of the most enigmatic people in Europe. No one knows their roots or the origin of their language. What I can affirm is that they are proud people and that their heritage and land are worth exploring. If it piqued your curiosity, come with me on this road trip into the Spanish Basque Country.
Visit Southern Spain
Some will argue that this is where most Spanish heritage is located, and I might agree with them. The southern part of Spain reflects some of the most well-known and oldest traditions locals strive for.
You have probably heard of Flamenco, Spanish life rhythms, la siesta, or tapas. It all originates from southern Spain. All of those are good excuses to pick a train or bus and start exploring the Spanish southern gems!
Final Thoughts on the Fallas Valencia Festival
The Fallas festival is rich in traditions that represent Valencian culture. For many locals, it symbolizes community spirit, creativity, and solidarity through a spectacular event. Over two weeks, all the problems disappear with the burning giant dolls.
Thanks to the complex and detailed piece of art created by the Artistas Falleros, satire and social criticism are conveyed to anyone, following a long-standing tradition in Valencia. These artists, who make the Fallas and Ninots, are the hidden actors in a crucial cultural tradition and history.
So, my friend, if you have the chance to attend the festival, let the fires of Las Fallas ignite your passion for exploration and a deep appreciation for the culture. But your path doesn’t stop here, as there are still many opportunities and places to discover when traveling slowly in Spain. Where will you go next?