The Fallas of Valencia: A Spectacle of Tradition, Art and Fire

Valencia dresses up every March to celebrate the Fallas, one of the most spectacular and emblematic festivities in Spain. For several days, the city is filled with artistic monuments, music, mascletás and fireworks, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world. In this post, we explore the origin, essence and main events of this celebration that is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Origins of the Fallas

The Fallas have their roots in the ancient traditions of Valencian carpenters, who, with the arrival of spring, burned useless materials in honour of Saint Joseph, their patron saint. Over time, these piles of wood and shavings evolved into large-scale artistic monuments, full of humour and social criticism.

Key elements of the Fiesta

The Fallas Monuments

The fallera commissions build impressive sculptures of cardboard, wood and other materials, which can reach heights of more than 20 metres. Each falla tells a story or criticises society with a touch of humour.

The Mascletá

Every day, from the 1st to the 19th of March, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento becomes the epicentre of the roar with the traditional mascletá. This fireworks display is a true sensory delight, where sound and vibration mark the essence of the fiesta.

The Flower Offering

One of the most emotional events is the Offering of Flowers to the Virgen de los Desamparados, patron saint of Valencia. During the 17th and 18th of March, thousands of falleras and falleros parade towards the Plaza de la Virgen to adorn an imposing floral mantle to the image of the Virgin.

La Nit del Foc

On the night of 18th March, the skies over Valencia light up with the "Nit del Foc", the most eagerly awaited fireworks display of the fiestas.

La Cremà

On 19th March, Saint Joseph's Day, the Fallas come to an end with the "Cremà". All the fallas, except the children's first prize winner, burn in impressive bonfires, closing the festive cycle with fire and emotion.

Main Programme of the Fallas 2025

1 to 19 March:

• Mascletà in the Town Hall Square (14:00 h).

14 March:

• Plantà of all the children's fallas.

15 March:

• Plantà of large faults.

17 and 18 March:

• Flower Offering to the Virgen de los Desamparados (16:00 h - midnight).

18 March:

• Fireworks display in the old Turia riverbed (00:00 h).

19 March:

• Mass in honour of St. Joseph in Valencia Cathedral (12:00 h).
• Cremà of the children's fallas (22:00 h) and the big fallas (00:00 h).

Las Fallas is a unique experience that combines tradition, art and passion. If you are in Valencia during these dates, don't miss the opportunity to experience one of the most vibrant festivities in the world.