Valencia, a city with vibrant traditions and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. Here is a breakdown of some of the most significant festivals in Valencia, their approximate dates, and a brief description of how they are celebrated.
Las Fallas (Fallas de Valencia)
When: 15th to 19th March
Celebration: Las Fallas, a spectacular festival in Valencia, Spain, is an explosion of culture, art, and festivity and is Valencia’s most famous festival. Originating from carpenter traditions in the Middle Ages, it has evolved into a grand city-wide celebration. The festival is renowned for its towering “fallas” – elaborate sculptures made of wood, papier-mâché, and plaster, often satirizing political and social issues.
These artistic masterpieces, displayed throughout the city, create an open-air museum atmosphere. The climax is the “Cremà,” where these sculptures are set ablaze amidst fireworks, symbolizing rejuvenation. Accompanied by traditional music, parades, and paella contests, Las Fallas is a vibrant expression of Valencian culture and creativity.
La Tomatina
When: Last Wednesday of August
Celebration: La Tomatina, held in the Valencian town of Buñol, is a world-famous festival centered around an exhilarating tomato fight. This unique event takes place on the last Wednesday of August each year. Thousands of participants from across the globe gather for this playful battle, where overripe tomatoes are hurled in a joyous celebration.
The origins trace back to a spontaneous food fight among locals in 1945. Today, it’s a well-organized spectacle, with safety rules ensuring a fun environment. The streets become rivers of red pulp, creating a lively, messy, and unforgettable experience. La Tomatina is not just a festival but a symbol of fun and camaraderie.
Feria de Julio (July Fair)
When: Throughout July
Celebration: This month-long festival transforms the city into a hub of cultural and recreational activities and has been celebrated since 1871. The fair features a diverse lineup of events, including open-air concerts, cinema, theatre, and dance performances, appealing to a wide audience.
A highlight is the spectacular ‘Battle of Flowers’ (Batalla de Flores), where beautifully decorated floats parade along the Paseo de la Alameda, and participants engage in playful flower-throwing exchanges. The fair’s vibrant fireworks, known as ‘Castillos de Fuegos’, light up the Valencian night sky, creating an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike.
Fiesta de San Vicente Ferrer
When: The Monday after Easter Sunday
Celebration: The Fiesta de San Vicente Ferrer is a vibrant celebration held in Valencia, Spain, honoring its patron saint, Vicente Ferrer. This festival blends religious devotion with community spirit. The city comes alive with various activities, including religious processions, theatrical performances, and prayers at the saint’s altars scattered throughout Valencia.
A highlight is the ‘Altar del Tossal’, where children reenact miracles attributed to San Vicente. The festival is a blend of faith, tradition, and Valencian culture, offering a unique experience that reflects the local community’s deep reverence for their patron saint
Semana Santa Marinera (Maritime Holy Week)
When: Week leading up to Easter
Celebration: Semana Santa Marinera, celebrated in Valencia’s maritime districts, is a unique and emotive rendition of Holy Week. Unlike typical Semana Santa observances, this festival reflects the maritime heritage of the region. The event, deeply rooted in tradition, dates back to the 15th century.
It features solemn processions where brotherhoods and fraternities, dressed in traditional robes, parade through the streets carrying religious statues. The air is filled with a profound sense of spirituality and respect. The highlight is the ‘Holy Burial’ procession on Good Friday, a moving spectacle that draws large crowds, creating a blend of religious fervor and local culture.
Corpus Christi
When: 60 days after Easter
Celebration: Corpus Christi in Valencia is a vibrant blend of religious devotion and popular festivity, celebrated since the 14th century. This feast, honoring the Eucharist, is one of the city’s most ancient and revered traditions. The streets come alive with the ‘Cabalgata del Convite,’ a colourful parade featuring biblical characters and mythical beasts, captivating both locals and visitors.
Elaborate costumes, dance, and music add to the spectacle. The ‘Misteri de Sant Cristòfol’ play, depicting the struggle between good and evil, is a key highlight. This festival is a true testament to Valencia’s rich cultural tapestry, combining solemnity with jubilant celebration.
Fiesta de San Juan (St. John’s Feast)
When: Night of 23rd June
Celebration: Fiesta de San Juan in Valencia marks the arrival of the summer solstice with a magical night full of traditions and joy. Celebrated on the night of June 23rd, this festival transforms the city’s beaches into vibrant hubs of activity. Locals and tourists alike gather to build bonfires, symbolising purification and renewal.
The highlight is the tradition of jumping over the fires and bathing in the sea at midnight, believed to cleanse the soul and bring good luck. Music, dancing, and fireworks light up the Valencian coastline, creating an atmosphere of communal celebration and a memorable welcome to summer.
Nou d’Octubre (Valencian Community Day)
When: 9th October
Celebration: Nou d’Octubre, or Valencian Community Day, commemorates the date in 1238 when King James I officially entered the city of Valencia, freeing it from Moorish control. Celebrated annually on October 9th, this day is a symbol of Valencian identity and pride. Festivities include parades featuring historical reenactments, traditional music, and dance performances, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The ceremonial lowering of the Senyera (Valencian flag) from the balcony of Valencia’s City Hall is a poignant moment, followed by fireworks and public gatherings. It’s a day that unites Valencians in celebration of their history and community spirit. Traditions include “mocadorà” (a gift of marzipan sweets wrapped in a handkerchief) given to women.
Christmas Celebrations
When: December
Celebration: Christmas in Valencia is a vibrant blend of traditional charm and festive cheer. The city comes alive with twinkling lights and bustling Christmas markets, where locals and visitors alike can browse for artisan gifts and savor seasonal treats. Central plazas are adorned with elaborate Nativity scenes, and the sound of carols fills the air.
A highlight is the spectacular Christmas tree in Plaza del Ayuntamiento, creating a magical atmosphere. Families enjoy strolling through the streets, soaking in the festive spirit, and children eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Three Kings Parade, a beloved event that brings the magic of the season to life.
New Year Celebrations
When: December 31st
New Year’s Eve in Valencia is a dazzling affair, marked by joyous celebrations and vibrant traditions. As the clock ticks towards midnight, Valencians gather in town squares, especially the bustling Plaza del Ayuntamiento, to partake in the Spanish custom of eating twelve grapes, one at each chime, symbolizing good luck for each month of the coming year.
The air is electric with excitement, filled with the sounds of fireworks and music. Post-midnight, the city’s lively bars and clubs come alive, hosting spirited parties that last until the early hours, making it a memorable start to the New Year.
Carnival
When: February (dates vary based on the lunar calendar)
Celebration: Carnival in Valencia is a vibrant and colorful celebration, showcasing the city’s rich cultural tapestry. This annual festivity, occurring before Lent, is marked by a spirited atmosphere filled with lively parades, elaborate costumes, and rhythmic music. Streets come alive with dancers and performers, while locals and tourists alike revel in the joyous ambiance.
The highlight is the grand parade, featuring flamboyantly dressed participants and imaginative floats. Festive masks, traditional foods, and various entertainment events add to the carnival’s allure. It’s a time when Valencia’s spirit of fun and community shines, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes)
When: 5th January
Celebration: The Three Kings Parade, known as “Cabalgata de Reyes,” is a magical event that captivates both children and adults alike. Held annually on January 5th, this enchanting procession marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men into the city. Spectators line the streets, eagerly awaiting the beautifully decorated floats from which the Kings throw candies and small gifts to the delighted crowd.
The air is filled with excitement and joy, especially among children, who believe the Kings bring presents. This traditional celebration, steeped in cultural significance, embodies the spirit of giving and the joy of the holiday season in Valencia.
These are just some of the main festivals celebrated in Valencia. The city’s rich tapestry of traditions ensures that there’s almost always a celebration or event happening, making it a lively destination year-round. If you’re planning to visit during a specific festival, it’s a good idea to check the exact dates as some can vary each year.