A Guide to Valencia Province’s Local Festivals

Valencia Province, a gem in the southeastern part of Spain, is not only renowned for its stunning coastline, historical architecture, and vibrant culture but also for its lively and deeply rooted festivals. These celebrations, steeped in history and tradition, offer a unique insight into the soul of the region and its people. Whether you are a visitor or a local, Valencia’s festivals provide an immersive experience that showcases the province's rich cultural heritage, passionate community, and exuberant spirit. This guide explores some of the most iconic festivals in Valencia Province, highlighting their significance, traditions, and what you can expect when you participate.

1. Las Fallas (Falles)

When: March 15-19
Where: Valencia City

Las Fallas is undoubtedly the most famous festival in Valencia Province, if not all of Spain. This UNESCO-listed celebration is a five-day festival that culminates in the burning of large, elaborate sculptures known as "fallas." These sculptures, made of wood and papier-mâché, often depict satirical scenes, celebrities, or political figures. The festival is a blend of artistry, pyrotechnics, and community spirit.

The origins of Las Fallas date back to the Middle Ages when carpenters would burn their wooden lampstands as a way to celebrate the arrival of spring. Over time, these small fires evolved into the enormous, intricate structures we see today. The festival also includes parades, traditional music, fireworks, and the offering of flowers to the Virgen de los Desamparados, the patron saint of Valencia.

Participating in Las Fallas is a sensory overload; the scent of gunpowder fills the air from the "mascletà" (daily firework displays), the streets are alive with the sounds of traditional bands, and the night skies are lit up with spectacular firework shows. The festival reaches its climax on the night of March 19th, known as "La Cremà," when all the fallas are set ablaze, lighting up the city in a fiery spectacle.

2. La Tomatina

When: Last Wednesday of August
Where: Buñol

La Tomatina is another globally recognized festival that takes place in the small town of Buñol, about 40 kilometers from Valencia City. This unique and somewhat bizarre festival involves thousands of participants throwing ripe tomatoes at each other in a massive food fight. The origins of La Tomatina are somewhat unclear, but the most popular theory is that it began in 1945 when a group of young people started a spontaneous food fight during a parade.

The event officially begins at 11 am with the "palo jabón," a greased pole with a ham placed on top. Once someone successfully climbs the pole and knocks the ham down, the tomato fight begins. Over the course of an hour, participants hurl over 150,000 ripe tomatoes at each other, turning the town square into a sea of red pulp. After the fight, the streets are cleaned, and participants can wash off in public showers or the nearby river.

Despite its chaotic nature, La Tomatina is a well-organized event with safety measures in place. Participants are encouraged to squish the tomatoes before throwing them to avoid injuries, and goggles are recommended to protect the eyes. La Tomatina is a fun and energetic celebration that attracts people from all over the world, making it a must-visit for those looking for a unique festival experience.

3. Moors and Christians (Moros y Cristianos)

When: Various dates (mainly April-October)
Where: Throughout the province (especially in Alcoy, Villena, and Ontinyent)

The Moors and Christians festival is a historical reenactment that commemorates the battles between the Christian forces and the Moors (Muslims) during the Reconquista, when the Christians sought to reclaim Spanish territory from Muslim rule. This festival is celebrated in many towns and cities across the Valencia Province, with each town adding its unique twist to the event.

One of the most famous Moors and Christians festivals takes place in Alcoy, where the event dates back to the 16th century. The festival is divided into two main parts: the "Entradas," where participants dressed as Moors and Christians parade through the streets, and the "Embassies," which are theatrical reenactments of the battles. The elaborate costumes, booming cannons, and lively music create an immersive experience that transports you back to medieval times.

The festival is also a celebration of local identity and pride, with each town’s citizens actively participating in the planning and execution of the events. The Moors and Christians festival is not only a visual spectacle but also a deeply emotional experience for many participants, as it represents the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

4. La Feria de Julio (Feria de Julio)

When: July
Where: Valencia City

La Feria de Julio is a month-long festival that takes place in Valencia City, offering a diverse array of events and activities for locals and tourists alike. The festival was originally created in 1871 to encourage people to stay in the city during the hot summer months. Today, it has evolved into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and entertainment.

One of the highlights of La Feria de Julio is the "Batalla de Flores" (Battle of Flowers), a colorful parade where participants throw flowers at each other from elaborately decorated floats. The event takes place on the last Sunday of July and is a beautiful and fragrant spectacle that attracts thousands of spectators.

The festival also includes open-air concerts, fireworks displays, traditional dances, and a funfair. The "Gran Nit de Juliol" (Great Night of July) is a particularly special event where the city stays awake all night with street performances, live music, and fireworks. La Feria de Julio is a fantastic way to experience the lively and festive atmosphere of Valencia during the summer.

5. Corpus Christi

When: June
Where: Valencia City

Corpus Christi is one of the oldest festivals in Valencia, with origins dating back to the 14th century. This religious festival celebrates the presence of the body of Christ in the Eucharist and is marked by solemn processions, elaborate costumes, and traditional dances.

The main event is the Corpus Christi procession, which features "Las Rocas," large wooden floats that depict biblical scenes. The procession also includes "Los Gigantes y Cabezudos," giant papier-mâché figures that represent historical and mythical characters. These figures dance through the streets to the sound of traditional music, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

One of the unique aspects of Corpus Christi in Valencia is the "Cabalgata del Convite," a parade where participants dressed as characters from the Bible invite the public to attend the procession. The festival also includes the "Danza de la Moma," a symbolic dance that represents the battle between good and evil. Corpus Christi is a deeply spiritual and cultural event that offers a glimpse into Valencia’s religious traditions and history.

Conclusion

Valencia Province is a region rich in traditions, and its festivals are a testament to its vibrant culture and history. From the fiery spectacles of Las Fallas to the chaotic fun of La Tomatina, and the historical reenactments of the Moors and Christians festival, each celebration offers a unique experience that is deeply rooted in the local community. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply looking for a good time, Valencia’s festivals have something to offer everyone. These events not only provide entertainment but also a deeper understanding of the province's cultural identity and the passion of its people. So, mark your calendars, immerse yourself in the local customs, and experience the unforgettable festivals of Valencia Province.