Category: Events and Holidays

La Cabalgata del Ninot: Public Art and Satire on the Streets of Valencia

The Parade of the Ninots is one of the first major events of the Fallas festival in Valencia—a vibrant carnival of music, public art, and biting satire. The parade playfully mocks politicians, celebrities, and current events, embodying the festival’s irreverent spirit.

What is a Ninot?

In Valenciano, ninot means “doll,” but during Fallas, it takes on a grander meaning. Ninots are elaborate effigies crafted specifically for the festival, often featuring exaggerated caricatures or humorous social commentary. Each neighborhood Falla creates its own set of ninots, reflecting the community’s creativity and perspective. These figures take months—sometimes over a year—to design and build. Yet, despite the enormous effort, most will meet their fiery fate in the festival’s grand finale!

Two Key Events Leading Up to Fallas

As Fallas approaches, two important events highlight the artistry and satire of the ninots:

1. The Ninot Exhibition (Exposición del Ninot)

? City of Arts and Sciences
? Until March 15
? Tickets & Info

Before they are burned, Valencia’s ninots are showcased at the Ninot Exhibition. Visitors can admire these intricate sculptures and vote for their favorite ninot infantil (child-sized figure) and ninot grande (full-sized figure). The winning ninots earn a rare honor—they are spared from the flames and preserved in the Fallas Museum for posterity.

2. The Parade of Ninots (Cabalgata del Ninot)

? A moving spectacle of satire and tradition

Unlike the ninots on display at the exhibition, the ones in the parade take to the streets in a lively, satirical procession. Each neighborhood Falla rides on elaborate floats, often dressed in costume, parodying famous footballers, celebrities, and politicians. Some of these depictions can be particularly sharp or controversial, but that’s all part of the carnival spirit!

Alongside the satire, the parade also showcases the elegance of Fallas traditions. Falleros and Falleras don their spectacular regional attire, while marching bands and dance groups bring an explosion of music and movement to the streets.

? More on the Parade’s History & What to Expect

Experience the Festival of Fallas

The Cabalgata del Ninot is one of Valencia’s most beloved traditions, blending artistry, humor, and community spirit. If you’re in town, don’t miss the chance to vote for your favorite ninot and join the celebrations!

La Crida: The Official Kickoff to Fallas

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 Calle La Paz to Plaza de la Reina, ending with a bang at the Ayuntamiento. Fallers take their festive duties seriously! Representing their casal community, they will be 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 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, mascletà are all about sound—a carefully orchestrated series of rhythmic explosions that build to an earth-shaking crescendo.

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 2025, the theme is “Despertant els nostres cors” (“Awakening Our Hearts”), dedicated to the city’s recovery from the devastating floods of October. This year’s event will feature a live orchestra instead of prerecorded music, along with performances by well-known Valencian artists. Expect stirring renditions of El Fallero, a children’s choir, and an aerial ballet above the crowd. The night concludes with a dazzling fireworks and light show over the towers.

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 2025:

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