What are the Fallas of Valencia and why are they a unique festival
Origin and history of Las Fallas
The Fallas of Valencia are an experience that must be experienced, at least, once in a lifetime. In fact, in 2016 they were declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Even though it is such a beloved celebration, there is no official version of its origins. Although, in the absence of a certain one, there are dozens of unofficial versions. One of the best known is that the Fallas were born from an old custom of carpenters, who on the eve of Saint Joseph's day (their patron) burned old junk on the doors of their workshops to celebrate the end of winter.
In 1901, the first award ceremony was held, which led to the creation of a new profession: Fallas artist. And over time, many artists have ended up dedicating themselves full time to creating the faults.
Starting in 1945, events began to be added to the celebration until it became the Fallas festival that we know today.
What is a Falla and how is it constructed
A Falla is a construction made of wood, cardboard and other materials that is composed of different ninots (small figures that form a fault). Ninots are traditionally built with a cardboard base that is cut, sanded and glued to the shape of the flaw and prepared for artists to paint it.
Essential events of the Fallas of Valencia
Although the most anticipated events of Las Fallas take place from March 15 to 19, the celebrations have already started at the end of February, there are many events in which to create memorable moments and little time to waste. That's why we leave you this guide on what to do in the Fallas of Valencia so you can choose which #CampStories you want to experience.
La Crida: the official start of Las Fallas
La Crida is the first of many events, and the one that kicks off Las Fallas. It is celebrated on the last Sunday of February. In this event, the largest Fallas of Valencia kick off the Fallas with the well-known “¡Valencians i Valencianes, Fallers i Falleres, Gent de Tot el Món, ja estem en Falles!” from the Serranos Towers.
La Mascletà: the daily gunpowder show
From March 1 to 19, you can experience #CampStories that you will not forget at Mascletà.
An explosion of firecrackers, colors and explosions that make the Town Hall Square vibrate every day at 2 p.m. But the thing is that the party starts even before the Mascletà, the square is filled with music until the traditional “senyor pirotècnic, pot comença la mascletà” kicks off the impressive show.
La Plantà: when Fallas take to the streets
Although since La Crida Valencia already smells of Fallas, most of the essential events are concentrated between March 15 and 19. This is the case of the Plantà de las Fallas, the day when monuments are dried on the street to be admired by Valencians and judged by the jury, which awards prizes to the best.
On the same 15th in the morning, the Plantà de las Fallas infantiles begins, smaller Fallas, formerly made by children. And on the morning of March 16, one of the most anticipated moments of the year arrives: the Plantà de las Fallas.
The Offering to Our Lady of the Forsaken
On the 18th you will be able to create another memory that you will hardly forget: the Offering of Flowers to the Mare de Déu. The excited falleras, the marching bands, and the cloak of the Virgin that is filled with flowers little by little until the sculpture is completed, make it a very emotional moment.
La Nit del Foc
On the night of March 18, the fireworks display from the Turia Garden, where Valencians gather to enjoy the show. This night is ideal for arriving early, having a picnic with your loved ones and creating unforgettable memories with family or friends.
La Cremà: the great farewell of Las Fallas
La Cremà is the event that puts the finishing touch to these festivities and their most emotional moment. The Fallas that have been built throughout the year burn up, creating an image that is as beautiful as it is unforgettable. A bitter farewell because this year's Fallas come to an end, but also a beginning, since the next morning the Fallas of next year are already beginning to be created.
Tips for enjoying the Fallas of Valencia like a local
Best places to see La Mascletà
There are two ways to experience the Mascletà of Valencia:
- From the Town Hall Square itself — If you want to live the full Fallas experience, we recommend this option. The excitement you breathe in the street and the opportunity to feel the tremor under your feet will make this #CampStory unique and unforgettable.
- From the coveted balconies — If you're coming with children or if crowds aren't your thing, this is your option. During the festivities, many of the balconies surrounding the Town Hall Square are rented so you can enjoy the show from above, and for foodies: some even offer catering!
How to get around Valencia during the Fallas
During the Fallas, Valencia gets more crowded than ever, so you can forget about the car. And although you could get around by public transport, the subways and buses are very crowded and the latter change their routes. So your best option is to bring comfortable shoes and get around on foot.
What clothes to wear and why is it important?
- The Fallas scarf — An accessory that cannot be missing in your outfit these days, it is worn around the neck and is worn by everyone.
- Fallero blouse — The most experienced falleros even wear a special jacket for these dates, if you want to live the full experience of the Fallas, you can't miss it.
Living Las Fallas with children
Although Las Fallas are a bit of a rowdy celebration, if done well they can become an unforgettable experience for the little ones in the house. For this reason, we recommend:
- Experience Mascletà from a balcony, rather than from the square.
- Going to see the children's Fallas, with themes closer to them and without causing so many crowds, are the best introduction for children to this celebration.
Where to stay to visit the Fallas of Valencia
With our guide to the Fallas of Valencia and these tips, you're ready to live this experience like a Valencian. If all you need now is to decide where to stay near Valencia, don't worry: we bring you two campsites near Valencia ideal for continuing to create good times with your loved ones after the busy days of Fallas.
Camping near Valencia with beach and nature
Just 45 minutes' drive from Valencia is HolaCamp Chilches, the perfect retreat to rest away from the noise and bustle of the city during the Fallas. Just a step away from the beach, the campsite has a swimming pool, playground and restaurant, so that when you return from Las Fallas you just have to focus on enjoying and gathering strength for the next day.
And if you have some free time between Mascletà and Mascletà, with the guided activities, children's entertainment and HolaCamp shows you can continue creating the best #CampStories in the family.
We also recommend that you take the opportunity and stay one more day to reconnect with nature in the spectacular environment of the campsite, which is surrounded by rice fields and is located a few minutes from the Los Estanques de Almenara Natural Area. An ideal opportunity to reconnect with the essentials.
Camping near Valencia to combine Fallas and a beach getaway
Although typical of Valencia, these festivities are popular throughout the Valencian community, and Gandía is no exception, since in this city the Fallas are experienced with great intensity. That makes HolaCamp Gandía an ideal base for these dates.
With a pool and restaurant and just 1 hour's drive from Valencia, it's perfect for experiencing the Fallas up close, but with the tranquility of the sea. In addition, the little ones can continue to create unforgettable memories thanks to the park and the children's entertainment at the campsite.
Don't think twice, come and experience the Fallas of Valencia from HolaCamp Chilches or HolaCamp Gandía and create your most festive #CampStories with your family.
We are waiting for you to make this unique experience unforgettable as well.
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