Las Fallas: A “must see” Spanish experience

When I traveled to Spain back in 2005 I was excited to see Barcelona, but knew nearly nothing about the second part of our trip – Valencia. Turns out we had perfect timing and got to experience one of the biggest marvels in Europe. 

When most people think of Spain it brings to mind Barcelona and Madrid. If Valencia even comes to mind it is probably mostly because of oranges. What the city should really be known for is Las Fallas.

What is Las Fallas?

Las Fallas is a festival running from March 1-19 each year to celebrate the arrival of spring and commemorate Saint Jose, the patron saint of carpentry. It is full of fireworks, giant sculptures made of paper mache and wood, street food, and cultural traditions that showcase regional Valencian heritage. 

Each neighborhood association commissions two fallas or sculptures for the festival. One large one for the adults and one small for the kids. The sculptures are whimsical, comedic, beautiful, and completely unforgettable. 

When to go?

The best time to visit in order to see the sculptures in all their glory is from March 15th through the 19th. The 15th is a late night for artists as all fallas must be completed by midnight in order to be included in the judging. It is a matter of neighborhood pride to win and the winning ninot (small sculpture) is the only one to survive the festival (more on that later).

On the 17th, another impressive sculpture begins to take shape. It is also the day to see gorgeous traditional Valencian regional costumes as men, women, and children make their way to Plaza de la Virgen. Here they make flower offerings to the Virgin Mary which are then incorporated into a 14 meter high wooden statue of the Virgin Mary. 

All of this is a lead up to La Crema on the 19th. That is the final day of the festival and the day that all of the sculptures, except the winner chosen on the 15th, are burned. The city is lit up as the fallas are set aflame and fireworks explode and the air is filled with pure revelry. 

What else to see

Of course, Valencia is well worth a visit even if you can’t make it during Las Fallas. Here are a few of our other favorite experiences from The Capital of the Turia. 

Las Fallas museum

Whether you make it for the new sculptures or not this museum is a fun stop. This is where the winners are housed after La Crema and you can see phenomenal sculptures from the 1940s to today. You will also get a more in depth history of this festival with drawings, photos, and explanations of how it comes together and how it historically looked. 

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of the Arts and Sciences)

This was technically the reason we headed to Valencia. My husband was an architecture student at the time so this Santiago Calatrava designed complex was high on his list for a trip to Spain. I’m not usually a buildings person, but these are awe inspiring. Don’t worry the inside is just as exciting. Check out all the interactive exhibits, art, and natural life. 

L’Oceanografic 

This gigantic oceanographic park is part of the City of the Arts and Sciences and the largest aquarium in Europe. Shaped like a water lily each “petal” represents a different aquatic environment. You can see over 500 different species of animals from sharks to turtles to wetland birds.

La Lonja de la Seda

These gorgeous buildings were built between 1482 and 1533 and originally acted as the market for the silk exchange. Now a UNESCO Heritage site the complex is a beautiful example of gothic architecture with delicate spiral columns and vaulted ceilings. It stands as a reminder of the wealth and grandeur that once permeated Valencia as a merchant powerhouse. 

Central Market

Located just across from the Silk Exchange, the Mercado Central is a great place to see modern Valencian culture. As one of the largest markets in Europe it is well worth a visit. You will find fresh produce from local farms, artisan goods, great food stands for a quick bite, and plenty of opportunities for people watching. 

If you are also headed to Barcelona, check out our tips for Mercato de la Boqueria. 

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