Week in News: Fallas — and the World’s Largest Mascletà? (Hint: It’s not in Valencia)
Bon dia. The news may be grim elsewhere, but Valencia is in full Fallas mode this week. Expect daily afternoon mascletàs and big crowds in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The full schedule of events is on the Ayuntamiento website:
Aemet is forecasting possible rain on several days this week, meaning some events could be rescheduled. Keep an eye on official updates before heading out.
Fallas
The Mascletà is the ultimate expression of Valencia’s love for gunpowder. But it can be an intense and overwhelming experience. On the first Fallas mascletà this year, the Red Cross was called to help 43 people many sufferign from fainting spells during the performance.
A new study by the University of Valencia maps class and wealth differences across falla communities. While the falla system preserves tradition and neighborhood identity, the report suggests wealth and influence may be concentrated among a select few commissions.
Think you know everything about Valencia’s favorite festival? This Fallas quiz is a fun way to test your trivia knowledge — and practice your Spanish at the same time.
Politics & DANA
Families and victims of the 2024 DANA disaster testified last week at the Les Corts inquiry, describing what they called a fragmented and uncoordinated emergency response. The inquiry was also criticized for including groups promoting conspiracy theories.
- Las víctimas de la dana lamentan en Les Corts que la descoordinación agravó la tragedia – Valencia Plaza
- PP y Vox mezclan en la comisión de la dana de Les Corts a familiares de fallecidos con agitadores de bulos y escépticos de la instrucción judicial – El País
As part of the emergency works to prevent another flood disaster, the Poyo ravine that runs through Chiva will be expanded to triple its water capacity. A complete overhaul of the emergency system, including flood response and urban planning near Valencia’s waterways, continues.
Meanwhile, a new crowdfunded book is compiling restored photographs damaged by floodwaters — preserving family memories and local history salvaged from mud and debris.
City and Regional News
One in five residents in the Valencian Community is now registered as foreign, reflecting sustained immigration growth. The region now has some of the most sought-after municipalities in the country.
- Uno de cada cinco residentes de la Comunitat es ya extranjero – Levante EMV
- Dos municipios valencianos, entre los 10 más deseados de España para comprar vivienda – Las Provincias
Demolition has begun at the long-abandoned Vinival winery in Alboraia. Developer Metrovacesa plans to develop a 1,000-home eco-neighborhood using Vinival’s striking vaulted warehouses near Patacona beach.
Crime & Policing
Defense lawyers in a major narcotrafficking case argue that the alleged “Valencia Clan” is not a single criminal organization but multiple separate groups — a strategy that could fragment the prosecution of a case involving 1,300 kilos of seized cocaine.
Culture & History
Forty-five years after Spain’s failed coup attempt, newly declassified government documents reveal additional details about the events of February 23, 1981. These interactive explainers break down the coup attempt in short audio and visual segments — especially useful for Spanish learners.
And finally… The largest daytime mascletà in history was not set in Valencia — but in Las Vegas!
