Date
Saturday
Mar
15

March 15-19

Falles

Experience the vibrant and colorful celebration of Falles in Valencia, Spain - a festival filled with fire, music, and tradition. Don't miss it!

Yearly Date
March 15
Type
Week
Category
Religious
Country
Spain

Introduction

Get ready for a festival full of fiery fun and vibrant celebrations, because Falles is just around the corner! This annual tradition takes place in Valencia, Spain every year from March 15-19 to honor Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. The festivities are known for their spectacular firework displays, colorful parades, and towering papier-mâché sculptures that are burned on the final day. It's a time for locals and tourists alike to come together and indulge in delicious food, music, and traditional costumes. So mark your calendars for this exciting event – you won't want to miss it!

Falles Timeline

Middle Ages
Falles Origins
The Falles tradition started in the Middle Ages when artisans disposed of the broken artifacts and pieces of wood they no longer needed by burning them.
1784
Falles Satirical Evolution
By the late 18th century, locals in Valencia began creating larger and more elaborate fallas, often with satirical or humorous themes.
1931
First Falles Festival
The city of Valencia held the first organized Falles festival, with neighborhood groups competing for the best fallas.
1995
Falles Museum Opens
The Falles Museum opened in Valencia in 1995, offering visitors a year-round opportunity to learn about the history of this unique tradition.
2016
Falles UNESCO Recognition
The Falles festival was added to UNESCO's list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, giving worldwide recognition to this Valencian tradition.

How to Celebrate Falles

1

Attend a Falles festival

Immerse yourself in the culture and celebration of Falles by attending a local festival. Experience traditional music, food, and parades that showcase the vibrant spirit of the holiday.

2

Create a Falla

A Falla is a large, elaborate structure made of wood, paper, and other materials that is displayed during the festival. Gather some friends and create your own Falla to display in your neighborhood.

3

Try traditional Falles foods

Indulge in some delicious traditional Falles foods such as paella, buñuelos, and churros. You can either make them yourself or visit a local restaurant that specializes in these dishes.

4

Decorate your home with Falles colors

Get into the spirit of Falles by decorating your home with the traditional colors of red, yellow, and blue. Hang streamers, balloons, and other decorations to celebrate the holiday.

5

Attend a fireworks display

End your Falles celebration by attending a dazzling fireworks display. Many cities host grand displays on the last day of the festival, so make sure to plan accordingly.

Why Falles is Important

A

It celebrates tradition and culture

Falles is a traditional celebration that has been around for centuries in Valencia, Spain. It honors the city's patron saint, Saint Joseph, and is deeply rooted in Valencian culture. Falles is a way to preserve and showcase the unique customs and history of the region.

B

It brings people together

During Falles, entire neighborhoods come together to create elaborate papier-mâché figures called "fallas" and compete for the best design. These fallas are then burned on the final night of the celebration amidst a grand fireworks display. This tradition builds camaraderie and fosters a sense of community among residents.

C

It promotes tourism

Falles has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness this unique celebration. The city comes alive with parades, street parties, and various cultural events. Falles not only celebrates Valencian culture but also promotes tourism and brings in revenue for the city.

Falles Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Mar 14
Tuesday
2024
Mar 14
Thursday
2025
Mar 14
Friday
2026
Mar 14
Saturday
2027
Mar 14
Sunday