Updated 27 May 2023
Las Fallas, the vibrant and awe-inspiring festival celebrated in the heart of Valencia, Spain, is a spectacle that ignites the senses and captures the imagination. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, this week-long extravaganza of art, music, and fireworks has evolved into one of Spain’s most iconic and eagerly anticipated cultural events. Join us as we embark on a journey through time, exploring the origins of Las Fallas, its remarkable evolution, and the rich traditions that define this extraordinary celebration.
Table of Contents
Origins and Evolution of Las Fallas
Las Fallas finds its origins in the Middle Ages when Valencian carpenters celebrated the arrival of spring by burning wooden planks, known as “parots,” which were used to support their lamps during the long winter nights. Over time, this simple ritual evolved into a grand fiesta, where neighborhoods competed to create intricate and elaborate sculptures known as “fallas.” Today, Las Fallas has transformed into a massive cultural event, attracting millions of visitors from around the world.
Types of Materials Used in Fallas Sculptures
Throughout its evolution, the materials used in creating fallas sculptures have evolved as well. Initially, wood was the primary material, reflecting the festival’s humble origins. However, as artistic ambitions grew, papier-mâché, plaster, and Styrofoam became popular choices due to their versatility and ease of manipulation. These materials allow artists to craft intricate and delicate details, transforming the fallas into extraordinary works of art.
Key Terminology of Las Fallas
a. La Mascleta: This explosive daytime spectacle is an essential element of Las Fallas. La Mascleta is a breathtaking display of fireworks, percussion, and pyrotechnics that fill the city’s main square, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, with thunderous booms and vibrant bursts of color. It’s an awe-inspiring sensory experience that celebrates the Valencian passion for pyrotechnics.
b. Ninots: These are the individual sculptures and figures that make up the larger fallas monuments. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ninots often depict satirical or comical representations of popular characters, celebrities, or current events. Visitors are invited to vote for their favorite ninot, which will be spared from the fiery fate during the “Nit de la Cremà.”
c. Falleras/Falleros: These are the men and women who actively participate in Las Fallas. Falleras are elegantly dressed women adorned in traditional Valencian attire, complete with ornate hairstyles, embroidered dresses, and extravagant jewelry. Falleros are their male counterparts, dressed in traditional attire as well, reflecting the festival’s deep cultural roots.
d. Falla: The term “falla” refers to both the festival itself and the individual monuments. These monumental structures can reach staggering heights and are meticulously crafted by teams of artists and craftsmen over many months. Each falla tells a unique story, often satirizing political figures or social issues with a touch of humor and wit.
e. Casal: Casals are the community centers or meeting places where fallas commissions, or groups, come together to plan, organize, and create their fallas sculptures. These spaces serve as the heart and soul of each neighborhood’s fallas preparations, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
Present-Day Celebrations and Cultural Significance
In present times, Las Fallas in Valencia has grown into an internationally recognized event, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe. The festival offers a rich tapestry of experiences, including daily fireworks displays, dazzling parades, traditional music, and captivating light shows. Beyond the visual spectacle, Las Fallas embodies the Valencian spirit, showcasing the region’s history, heritage, and cultural pride.
Las Fallas Schedule: Your Guide to the Spectacular Annual Events
March 1 to 19 – Mascletà
Officially on March 1 to 19, precisely at 2pm, Plaza del Ayuntamiento vibrates with an explosive display – gunpowder and fireworks, a tradition known as ‘mascletà’.
A tip shared by locals – keep your mouth open during mascletà to help distribute the sound throughout your body and not hurt your eardrums.
March 15 to 16 – La plantà (the installation)
Takes place, when the falleros and falleras, get together and work through the night on putting them together in order to have them finished by dawn on the 16th. Soon after, a jury visits all the sculptures (over 750) throughout the city and chooses the winners.
March 15 to 19 – Fireworks and the Nit del Foc
Each night at midnight, people gather on Paseo de la Alameda to enjoy the València sky fill up with with light and colour of impressive firework displays. On the early hours of March 18, a more spectacular show is held. It is called Nit del Foc (Night of Fire).
March 17 – Prize Award Ceremony
An exciting day for all falleros because on the morning of 17th, the falleros go to Plaza del Ayuntamiento to collect their prizes.
March 17 to 18 – Ofrenda de Flores (Offering of Flowers)
Takes place, when the falleros and falleras, get together and work through the night on putting them together in order to have them finished by dawn on the 16th. Soon after, a jury visits all the sculptures (over 750) throughout the city and chooses the winners.
March 19 – La Cremà (The Burning)
On the evening of March 19, all of the sculptures, go up in flames. At 10 pm, La Cremà of the children’s sculptures begins. Two hours later, the large sculptures. The last one to burn is the falla at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, usually at 1 am. It is always preceded by a small but spectacular fireworks display which fill the square with noise, light and colour. This Cremà marks the end of the festival.
For up to date information, visit the
Las Fallas Valencia Information Page for English Speaking Visitors.
