Exploring Falles in Valencia

History of Falles

Falles is a traditional celebration held in Valencia, Spain, to commemorate Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. The origins of Falles date back to the Middle Ages when carpenters would burn wooden planks and leftover materials in bonfires to mark the beginning of spring. Over the years, these bonfires evolved into elaborate sculptures made of wood, paper-mache, and other materials, which are displayed throughout the city during the celebration.

Traditions and Customs

One of the most iconic customs of Falles is the construction and display of fallas, which are large cardboard and paper-mache sculptures that depict satirical scenes and characters. These fallas are displayed in the streets of Valencia for several days before being set on fire on the night of March 19th, known as the Nit de la Cremà. This tradition symbolizes the end of winter and the welcoming of spring.

Events and Activities

During Falles, the city of Valencia comes alive with a variety of events and activities for locals and visitors to enjoy. These include parades, fireworks displays, musical performances, bullfights, and traditional dances. One of the highlights of the celebration is the daily mascletà, a loud and rhythmic firework display that takes place in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Another popular event is the Ofrenda de Flores, where thousands of people parade through the streets to offer flowers to the Virgin Mary.

Food and Drink

No celebration in Spain is complete without delicious food and drink, and Falles is no exception. During the festival, visitors can enjoy traditional Valencian dishes such as paella, fideuà, and buñuelos, as well as local wines and cocktails. Street vendors also sell a variety of snacks and sweets, including churros, turrones, and horchata. The festive atmosphere of Falles makes it the perfect time to indulge in the rich culinary traditions of Valencia.