Las Fallas in Valencia is one of the most spectacular and emblematic events in Spain. This festival, which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world, is a mixture of art, tradition and spectacle. If you are thinking of visiting Valencia in March, the Fallas are an experience not to be missed. In this article, we tell you about the origins of Las Fallas, what activities you can enjoy during the festivities and how to experience this unique festival to the fullest.

ORIGIN

The Fallas festival has its origins in the city of Valencia, Spain, and has a long tradition going back several centuries. Its origin is linked to the celebration of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. In the Middle Ages, Valencian carpenters had the custom of cleaning up their workshops on the eve of 19 March, the day on which Saint Joseph's Day is celebrated. To do so, they burnt the remains of wood, sawdust and other materials. Over time, this practice of burning waste evolved into a more elaborate festivity. During the 18th and 19th centuries, carpenters began to create more elaborate wooden figures, known as ‘ninots’, depicting scenes from everyday life, social criticism or popular figures. These figures were placed in the streets and burned at the end of the festival, in a large bonfire. The burning symbolised purification and the end of winter, as well as being a way of paying homage to Saint Joseph. Over time, the Fallas became a popular festival that includes parades, competitions, music, fireworks and, of course, the burning of the ‘ninots’ on the night of 19 March. Today, the festival has become an internationally renowned cultural and tourist event of great importance. UNESCO declared it Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2016.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Calpe is located on the Costa Blanca, in the province of Alicante, and although it is not the main place where the Fallas are celebrated, it is quite close to other cities and towns where the festival is very important. If you are in Calpe and would like to enjoy the Fallas, here are some recommendations of places nearby where you can experience this festivity:

👉Valencia (about 120 km from Calpe): The city of Valencia is the most famous place to enjoy the Fallas. The festival reaches its peak there, with huge ‘ninots’ (figures) being placed in the streets, parades, fireworks and the great ‘cremà’ (burning) of the figures on the night of the 19th of March. It is the heart of the fiesta and where the biggest and most impressive events take place.

👉Alicante (about 70 km from Calpe): Although the Fallas in Alicante are not as big as in Valencia, the city also celebrates this festival with great devotion. In Alicante, the ‘Hogueras de San Juan’ are the main festivities in June, but in March, some neighbourhoods and villages near Alicante celebrate smaller Fallas events, with figures and other activities.

👉Dénia (about 50 km from Calpe): Dénia is a coastal town close to Calpe which also celebrates Fallas, although on a smaller scale than Valencia. Celebrations here include the planting of figures, verbenas, parades, and the burning of the Fallas at the end of the festival.

👉Gandía (about 90 km from Calpe): Gandía is another town in the Valencian Community where the Fallas are celebrated with enthusiasm. Although it does not have the magnitude of Valencia, in Gandía you can enjoy a similar festive atmosphere, with ‘ninots’, music and fireworks.

👉Altea (about 10 km from Calpe): Although Altea is not as well known for its Fallas celebrations as the other towns, in some of its neighbourhoods there are smaller events during these dates. It can be an alternative if you prefer a quieter but authentic atmosphere.

In short, if you want to experience Las Fallas at its best, it would be best to head to Valencia. However, if you prefer a quieter and more local version, Alicante, Dénia or Gandía are good options to enjoy the festivity near Calpe.

Las Fallas is not only an event of art and fire, but also a cultural experience that offers a variety of activities for all tastes. Here are some of the main activities not to be missed if you visit Valencia during Las Fallas:

ℹ️ Touring the Fallas of the City
Every neighborhood in Valencia sets up its own falla, and walking around the city is an incredible way to explore these impressive works of art. During the days leading up to the “Nit de la Cremà” (the night of March 19, when the fallas are burned), you can admire the skill and creativity of the fallero artists who create these highly detailed monuments.

🎆 The Mascletà
The Mascletà A must-see event during the Fallas is the Mascletà, a fireworks display that takes place every day at 2:00 pm in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Valencia. It is an explosion of noise and colors, where fireworks create an electrifying atmosphere. The Mascletà is one of the most awaited traditions and will leave you with a unique sensation.

💐 The parade of the Offering of Flowers

📌Tips to Enjoy Las Fallas as a Tourist

If you are a tourist visiting Valencia during Fallas, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:

Book your accommodation in advance: Las Fallas attracts thousands of tourists, so it is important to book your accommodation as early as possible. Although Valencia is the epicenter, you can also stay in nearby towns like Calpe and take public transportation to get there easily.

Be prepared for crowds: The streets of Valencia will be full of people during Fallas. Make sure you are prepared for the crowds and be patient to move from place to place.

Wear comfortable shoes: You will be walking a lot, so it is essential to wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the tours and activities without problems.

Enjoy the festive atmosphere: Las Fallas is not only a festival of fire and art, but also a time to enjoy the collective joy. Participate in the events, watch the parades and let yourself be infected by the excitement and festive spirit of the city.