Las Fallas is one of Europe’s most unique festivals, celebrated every March in Valencia, Spain. This festival is full of energy and spirit, vibrant colors, fire, and plenty of noise and smoke, attracting visitors from every corner of Spain and all over the world. The origins of Las Fallas is somewhat of a mystery, but many believe that it dates back to the pagan tradition during the Middle Ages where artefacts were burned to celebrate the onset of spring and harvest season.
It is also a commemoration of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, which has evolved over the years into the electrifying festival it is today. “Las Fallas” translates to “the fires” which is a major component of the festival. Random firework displays erupt all hours of the day and night throughout the city, leading up to the finale on the 19th.
The 5-day event centres around the creation and imminent destruction of huge puppets called “Ninots” which are crafted all year round out of materials including wood, paper mache, plaster and cardboard. The Ninots often portray current events in a satirical fashion.
Many of the Ninots are gigantic, some reaching several stories in height, requiring the aid of cranes to display. The fascinating Ninots are erected on the 15th and can be found all over the city in over 350 parks and popular intersections.
Plaza de Toros of Valencia showcases several bullfights during Las Fallas, which officially kicks off the bullfighting season. Most shows take place at 5 pm, and prices can range from 11 to 140 euros, depending on whether you want to sit in the sun or shade. Be prepared to be dazzled by fabulous costumes, colours and music, and the thrilling show! While you’re there, you can also check out the adjacent Bullfighting Museum.
Ruzafa District Light Show
During Las Fallas, the entire city is illuminated in displays of bold and colourful lights. The most spectacularly lit neighbourhood is the Ruzafa District where over 750,000 light bulbs shine brightly along three streets—a spectacle not to be missed! Make sure to come early to grab a bite at one of the many fabulous street food stalls.
Cabalgata del Fuego
While there are numerous outstanding parades during Las Fallas, the highlight is the Cabalgata del Fuego “fire” parade which showcases vibrant costumes, street performances, music, floats, and of course, tons of fire! The parade begins at 7 pm on March 19th along Colon Street and Porta de la Mar Square.
La Cremà
You can’t miss the grand La Cremà finale on the 19th. On this evening, the Ninots are stuffed full of fireworks. As the sun sets, the city’s lights are turned off, the crowds begin to chant and at midnight the Ninots are set ablaze—all except for one lucky Ninot who is spared and displayed in a local museum. Ninots are burned all over the city, and it is not possible to see everything. We recommend scoping out your favourite Ninot during the week and then go back to that location for the burning celebration. Traditionally the final Ninots is burned at Plaza Ayuntamiento where the daily La Mascletá takes place. Here just like everywhere else, you’ll find the city frolicking about, singing, dancing and celebrating with glee.
Museo Fallero (Fallas Museum)
For art, culture and puppet lovers, we recommend paying a visit to the Fallas Museum to see the lucky Ninots whose lives have been spared over the years. We suggest roughly one hour for viewing time. The entrance fee is normally 2 euros though free on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Street Food
During Las Fallas, the city is overflowing with food stalls selling a wide array of Spanish specialities including roasted chestnuts, calamari bocadillo, fried buñuelos, churros and porres—all for incredibly reasonable prices. Don’t hold back, give them all a try!
The spirit of Las Fallas is both captivating and fascinating. There is nothing quite like it, somehow a bizarre mix between Burning Man, the 4th of July and Carnival. If this sounds exciting and something you want to explore further, consider checking out TourRadar’s Las Fallas tour offerings. Booking a tour through TourRadar alleviates all the hassle and stress and ensures that you’re at all the right places at the right time, so you can sit back, enjoy and celebrate!
