Las Fallas is Valencia’s biggest festival: loud, fiery and packed with tradition. Every March, the city transforms into an open-air art exhibition, with massive sculptures (fallas) filling the streets. Fireworks, parades and non-stop celebrations take over, leading up to the final night when everything goes up in flames.
But why do they burn these sculptures? What’s the history behind it? And what can you expect if you visit? If you want to know what exactly Las Fallas in Valencia is all about, this guide is for you.
Historical background of Las Fallas
Las Fallas has deep roots tracing back to medieval times. The most widely accepted origin story begins with the city's carpenters. During winter, they used wooden structures called parots to hold their oil lamps while working. As spring approached and days lengthened, these parots were no longer necessary. On the eve of Saint Joseph's Day, their patron saint, carpenters would burn these wooden lampstands, symbolizing the end of winter and welcoming spring.
Over time, this simple tradition evolved. Residents began dressing the parots in old clothes, giving them human-like appearances. These figures, known as ninots, often represented local characters or satirized societal issues, adding a humorous touch to the festivities.
As the festival grew in popularity, the creations became more elaborate. By the 18th century, entire neighborhoods collaborated to build large-scale sculptures, turning the event into a community-wide celebration. Despite facing challenges, such as bans during political upheavals and the Spanish Civil War, Las Fallas persisted, adapting and growing with each era.
Today, Las Fallas stands as a testament to Valencia's rich cultural heritage, blending art, satire and tradition. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the festival attracts visitors worldwide, eager to experience its unique blend of history and celebration.
Meaning and purpose of Las Fallas
Las Fallas is Valencia's way of welcoming spring and honoring Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. The festival's name, "Fallas," comes from the Latin word "facula," meaning "torch," highlighting the central role of fire in the celebrations.
At its core, Las Fallas is a blend of art, satire and tradition. Communities come together to create large, intricate sculptures known as "fallas." These structures often poke fun at political figures, celebrities or societal issues, reflecting the Valencian spirit of humor and critique.
The act of burning these sculptures during "La Cremà" symbolizes purification and renewal. By setting the fallas ablaze, participants metaphorically cleanse the old to make way for the new, embracing the cycle of life and the fresh beginnings that spring brings.
Beyond the flames and festivities, Las Fallas fosters a deep sense of community. Neighborhoods collaborate throughout the year, planning and building their fallas, strengthening social bonds and preserving Valencian cultural heritage.
Key events and traditions of Las Fallas
Las Fallas is a festival in Valencia that's celebrated annually from March 1st to 19th. Let us show you an overview of the main festivities:
La Crida (the call): The festival officially begins on the last Sunday of February with "La Crida." During this event, the Fallera Mayor, the festival's ambassador, invites everyone to take part in the celebrations from the historic Torres de Serranos.
La Plantà (the installation): By March 15th, neighborhoods finalize the assembly of their intricate "fallas" monuments. These towering structures are displayed throughout the city, turning streets into open-air art galleries.
La Mascletà: From March 1st to 19th, every afternoon at 2:00 PM, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento resonates with "La Mascletà." This pyrotechnic spectacle emphasizes rhythmic explosions, creating a unique auditory experience cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Tip: Make sure you have ear plugs for you and the kids, these fireworks are extremely loud and painful for your ears. You'll thank us later. ;)
La Despertà (the wake-up call): Early mornings during Las Fallas are marked by "La Despertà." Falleros, accompanied by brass bands, parade through the streets, setting off firecrackers to awaken the city and energize residents for the day's festivities.
La Ofrenda de Flores (the offering of flowers): On March 17th and 18th, thousands dressed in traditional Valencian attire participate in "La Ofrenda." They process to the Plaza de la Virgen to present flowers to a massive wooden effigy of the Virgin Mary, creating a flower carpet.
La Nit del Foc (the night of fire): The night of March 18th, known as "La Nit del Foc," features a grand fireworks display that illuminates Valencia's sky, drawing massive crowds and adding to the festival's electrifying atmosphere.
La Cremà (the burning): The festival reaches its highlight on March 19th with "La Cremà." Starting at 22:00 pm, the smaller fallas infantiles are set ablaze, followed by the larger monuments at midnight. This act symbolizes renewal and the community's readiness to embrace new beginnings.
Stay safe in the crowds
Las Fallas attracts huge crowds, so always be aware of your surroundings:
Check where the nearest exit of the square is in case you need to leave quickly.
Know where the closest toilets are and bring sufficient water with you.
A hand fan (abanico) is great for staying cool.
Also, be aware that large crowds can affect mobile network reception, so agree on a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
The meaning behind the fire
Fire represents renewal and purification. Burning the ninots is a way of saying goodbye to the old and welcoming the new, much like a fresh start. The tradition is rooted in Valencia’s past, when carpenters would burn wooden scraps and old furniture to mark the arrival of spring. Over time, these bonfires evolved into artistic, satirical sculptures that are now central to the festival.
Why do some ninots survive?
Not all sculptures meet the flames. Each year, one ninot is saved from burning. This is known as the Ninot Indultat (Pardoned Ninot). Before the festival, people vote for their favorite sculpture and the winning one is placed in the Fallas Museum instead of being burned.
Traditional clothing and costumes of Las Fallas
Las Fallas isn’t just about fire and fireworks. It’s also a celebration of Valencia’s heritage, reflected in the traditional clothing worn during the festivities. Throughout the event, you'll see men, women and even children dressed in stunning, historical outfits that date back centuries.
The Fallera and Fallero attire
The most recognizable figures of the festival are the Falleras and Falleros, who belong to different Fallas commissions (local groups organizing each neighborhood’s participation). Their outfits are inspired by 18th-century Valencian nobility and are a true display of craftsmanship.
For women: the Fallera dress
Elaborate gowns: made from rich fabrics like silk and brocade, Fallera dresses are adorned with intricate embroidery and floral patterns. The colors range from deep jewel tones to pastel shades.
Lace and shawls: many women wear delicate lace mantillas (shawls) over their dresses..
Traditional hairstyles: the signature Fallera hairstyle includes three carefully braided buns. One at the back of the head and two on either side, secured with decorative hairpins called "peinetas."
Jewelry and accessories: large, ornate earrings, necklaces and brooches complete the look. Each piece is often passed down through generations.
For men: the Fallero outfit
Chaleco and camisa: men wear a fitted waistcoat (chaleco) over a white shirt (camisa), often paired with a short jacket.
Faja and pantalón: a colorful sash (faja) is wrapped around the waist, while loose-fitting trousers (pantalón) give a traditional vibe.
Barret or montera hat: some men wear a "barret fallero" (a soft, rounded hat) or a more structured "montera," resembling a bullfighter’s cap.
When and where to see the traditional clothing
During La Ofrenda de Flores (March 17-18), thousands of Fallera women and men parade through Valencia’s streets in their traditional outfits, offering flowers to the Virgin Mary. This is one of the best opportunities to admire the stunning craftsmanship of these garments.
You’ll also see people in traditional attire at various parades, firework displays and cultural events throughout Las Fallas. Some locals wear simpler versions of the outfit for everyday participation in the festivities. Dressing as a Fallera or Fallero is about fasion, but also a way of honoring Valencian history and keeping the city’s traditions alive.
Do tourists need to wear traditional clothing?
No, visitors don’t need to dress up. That said, if you want to fully immerse yourself in the festival, you can find rental shops in Valencia that offer traditional attire for the occasion.
Culinary delights of Las Fallas
Las Fallas is a feast for the eyes, but it's also a paradise for your taste buds. During the festival, Valencia's streets come alive with traditional foods that are integral to the celebration. Some of your must-try dishes:
Paella Valenciana: this paella is a signature dish made with rice, chicken, rabbit and local beans.
Buñuelos de calabaza (pumpkin fritters): these sweet, deep-fried pumpkin fritters are a festival favorite. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, buñuelos are often dusted with sugar and enjoyed hot.
Churros with hot chocolate: these elongated doughnuts sprinkled with sugar, are best enjoyed dipped in thick hot chocolate.
Horchata: a refreshing beverage made from tiger nuts that tastes sweet and has a milky flavor.
Fideuà: similar to paella, but this dish is made with noodles instead of rice. Fideuà is typically prepared with seafood like squid and prawns.
Bocadillos (sandwiches): hearty sandwiches filled with ingredients such as cured meats, cheeses or tortillas.
All i Pebre: a traditional eel stew cooked with potatoes, garlic and paprika.
Selection of Fallas queens
Each year, two women are chosen as the faces of Las Fallas: the Fallera Mayor (senior queen) and the Fallera Mayor Infantil (child queen). These roles are highly respected, and the selection process is a big event in Valencia.
How are the Falleras Mayores chosen?
Each falla (neighborhood group) selects its own Fallera Mayor and Fallera Mayor Infantil.
From these local queens, a jury picks one senior and one child queen to represent all of Valencia.
The jury, made up of former Falleras Mayores, cultural experts and officials, considers public speaking skills, knowledge of Fallas traditions, personality and involvement in the community.
The final decision is made in October, months before the festival begins.
What are their responsibilities?
The Falleras Mayores act as ambassadors for Las Fallas, attending official events, ceremonies, and media appearances.
They lead key moments of the festival, including the Crida (opening ceremony) and the Ofrenda de Flores (flower offering to the Virgin Mary).
They wear traditional Valencian dresses, which can weigh over 15 kg and take hours to put on.
During La Cremà, they give the final farewell to the fallas before they are set on fire.
Becoming a Fallera Mayor is an honor, but it also requires dedication. The chosen queens spend nearly a year fulfilling their duties, representing the spirit of Valencia and its most famous festival.
Religious significance of Las Fallas
Las Fallas has deep religious roots. The festival honors Saint Joseph (San José), the patron saint of carpenters. The final day, March 19th, is Saint Joseph’s Day, an important date in Spain’s religious calendar.
Religious traditions
Masses and Services: special church services take place across Valencia, especially at the Valencia Cathedral on March 19th.
Ofrenda de Flores: thousands of falleros and falleras bring flowers to the Plaza de la Virgen. These flowers form a massive cloak for the Virgin Mary, showing devotion and gratitude.
Religious processions: participants carry statues of saints through the streets, followed by prayers and music.
Las Fallas balances religion and celebration. Some see it as a spiritual tribute. Others enjoy the Mascletàs, fireworks and street parties. For Valencians, it’s both. A festival of faith, culture and community.
Economic and social impact of Las Fallas
Las Fallas is a major economic driver for Valencia. The festival brings in millions of euros each year, supporting local businesses, tourism and jobs.
How are the Fallas funded?
Building massive sculptures and hosting city-wide events isn’t cheap. Funding comes from:
Fallas committees: each neighborhood (casal faller) raises money through membership fees and events.
Local businesses: many companies sponsor Fallas displays in exchange for visibility.
City and regional government: authorities provide funding, especially for public events and infrastructure.
Tourism revenue: the influx of visitors helps cover costs through spending on hotels, restaurants and event tickets.
Boost to the local economy
Tourism: over a million visitors arrive for Las Fallas, filling hotels, restaurants and bars.
Job creation: artists, musicians, vendors and hospitality workers all benefit from seasonal employment.
Small business sales: street food stalls, souvenir shops and traditional clothing stores see a peak in customers.
Where is Las Fallas festival in Valencia celebrated?
After being completely informed about Las Fallas, we understand you want to experience these festivities. Las Fallas is most famous in Valencia city, but it's also celebrated in towns across the Valencian Community. Every town has its own schedule of events, so it’s best to check their official website or social media pages. Cities like Gandía, Denia, Benidorm, Xàtiva and Pego all have their own Fallas celebrations, each with unique traditions.
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