Valencia
Shine Bright Like Las Fallas
After living in Spain for 6 months, we discovered that Spaniards have a lot of traditions and celebrations. Between Tomatina (a giant tomato throwing party) and the Wine Battle of Haro there is no shortage of strange and wonderful things to experience. Las Fallas in Valencia is no exception. To say that this festival was breathtaking would be an understatement.
Peak
Every March Spaniards spend an entire year making beautiful hand crafted,hand painted, wooden, larger than life sized statues with important messages and meanings. For a week they are displayed and enjoyed by crowds, only to be burned to the ground at the end of the festival. There is really nothing like the experience of seeing these exquisite effigies along with the sounds of these loud firecrackers during “La Mascleta”. Between the art, dances, pageants, and wonderful light show, it truly was a magical experience.
Valley
Unfortunately, our teaching schedule did not allow us to take two days off to watch the effigies being burned. The culmination of the festival would have been awesome! But maybe next time!
Appreciation
We definitely learned to appreciate combination of Spanish history and modern culture. Las Fallas celebrates Saint Joseph, the saint of carpenters. Today, hundreds of contestants enter their effigies into the competition where only one can win (and not be burned)
“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.”
-Tim Cahill
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