Crackle! Whistle! Bang! BOOM!

As we enter March, while some of us are donning raincoats and umbrellas, there is one unique city in Spain called Valencia that has started celebrating a month-long traditional festival called ‘Las Fallas’, or ‘Fallas’ for short. (The double L is pronounced like a Y.) And as if one month isn’t long enough, people in Valencia started celebrating a whole month early with small bang snaps and firecrackers. Don’t we all love their festive spirits?

This incredible festival, which starts in March, is all about fire and loud sounds, and although it can be a little dangerous at times, it is an event that you wouldn’t want to miss.

The origin of Fallas dates back to the ancient tradition of the city's carpenters, who on the eve of their patron Saint Joseph (in Spanish, San José) would burn useless junk in front of their workshops, in the streets, and in public squares. That is why every year on March 19th, the day of Saint Joseph, the Fallas monuments are burned.

On the last day of Fallas, some statues that had been brought into the city square a few days earlier were set on fire. This creates an enormous bonfire, along with all the fireworks and firecrackers. Setting the statues on fire can be a bit questionable for tourists, and they probably wonder why such beautiful statues are burned. However, as mentioned above, this is actually part of an ancient Spanish tradition.

If you are looking for peace and relaxation, this would not be the ideal time to come to Valencia; waking up in the middle of the night to fireworks and loud music doesn’t boost your energy or allow you to rest. However, if you're looking for the experience of your life or you want to just have fun, Valencia celebrating Fallas is the place for you!

Written by Dyana and proof-read by Eleanor Raven