Valencia’s Fallas celebrations officially begin with La Crida—or “The Call to Fallas”—a vibrant event held on the last Sunday of February. This is a spectacle of music, fireworks, and beloved tradition as the city comes alive for its big spring festival.

The Wake-Up Call

The festivities begin early—very early. At 7:30 AM, the despertà parade is led by traditional fallers tossing small but loud firecrackers along Plaza de la Reina, ending with a bang at the Ayuntamiento. Fallers take their festive duties seriously! Representing their casal community, they are the driving force behind Fallas, dressing up in traditional attire and organizing many of the events in the coming weeks. The despertà tradition serves as Valencia’s wake-up call by the fallers, setting the tone for the day and the weeks ahead.

Midday Festivities

At noon, traditional Valencian marching bands parade from Plaza Alfonso el Magnánimo through Calle La Paz to the Ayuntamiento, filling the streets with music. Then, at 2:00 PM, Plaza del Ayuntamiento hosts the first official mascletà of Fallas. Unlike typical fireworks displays, mascletàs are all about sound—a carefully orchestrated series of rhythmic explosions that build to an earth-shaking crescendo. There’s a reason Valencia becomes the “Cathedral of Gunpowder” during Fallas.

The Evening Spectacle

After an afternoon break, the main event takes place in the evening at the Torres de Serranos. The iconic towers are bathed in the colors of the Valencian flag, La Senyera, creating a stunning backdrop for a night of pageantry.

Each year, the show has a unique theme. For 2026, the theme is “Valencia es mou” (“Valencia moves”), highlighting the city’s energy and dynamism.

Valencia’s Symphony Orchestra sets the scene by playing the city’s anthem, the Hymn of Valencia.

The Official Declaration

Fallas officially begins when the Fallera Menor and Fallera Mayor deliver the traditional proclamation:

“Valencians i valencianes, fallers i falleres, gent de tot el món, ja estem en Falles!”

(“Valencians, fallers, and people from all over the world—we are in Fallas!”)

Practical Information

La Crida is a must-see event that draws thousands of attendees, so expect large crowds and road closures. Police will be on-site managing crowd flow and access to the main event area.

For up-to-date information on La Crida:

• Official Program: Visit Valencia
• Security and Traffic Info: Ayuntamiento Website
• Full Fallas Program: Fallas.com

Fallas is one of Valencia’s most treasured traditions. Stay safe, and enjoy the festivities!