Spain is in mourning after Wednesday’s train crash in Toledo. A Renfe train rear-ended an Iryo train, killing at least 68 people and injuring dozens more. The toll may rise. Investigators are still working to establish what happened, though early indications point to a combination of human error and system failure.
Here in Valencia, Saturday evening is also a moment of remembrance. People will gather in Plaza de la Virgen to mark the second anniversary of the 2024 DANA and honor its victims. Sunday is All Saints’ Day, traditionally a time to remember loved ones who have died.
Halloween events are still going ahead alongside these commemorations, and the City Council has announced additional police presence for what is expected to be a busy night. If you’re heading out Saturday, check local news for updates.
Want to help those affected by the train crash? There has been a call for blood donations. The Generalitat Valenciana has published a list of blood donation locations across the region.
News at a glance
- Saturday, 31 October: DANA anniversary protest Plaza de la Virgen + Halloween
- Sunday, 1 November: All Saints’ Day
Festivals and Traditions
Alongside the weekend’s commemorations, Halloween has firmly established itself on Valencia’s events calendar. From family-friendly activities to more traditional and decidedly spooky evenings, here’s what’s on.”
- Russafira, Ruzafa’s community festival, runs from 30 October to 1 November at Parc Central, a family-friendly Halloween alternative with a weekend of activities. The highlight is the “Parade of Souls” on Sunday, 1 November.
- On Saturday evening, Mercado El Grao hosts a Halloween party. Kids get a costume competition and games, and adults get tardeo drinks and a DJ later on.
- For a Valencian take on the night, El Velatori de l’Albaet is not necessarily one for kids. The Alqueria de Zarzo in Benimaclet revives this traditional wake where people celebrate the life of a departed child with music, dancing and food. The tradition was once frowned upon, and cultural groups are now working to bring it back.
- Halloween is also La Rambleta’s annual Rocky Horror Picture Show night. The cult classic is shown in VOSE, and the audience is expected to come dressed for the part and bring props for the interactive screening.
Music
On Thursday, 29 October, Swedish singer-songwriter Jose González presents his new album, solo voice and guitar, in a concert at La Rambleta. Also at La Rambleta: Legendary Cuban guitarist Eliades Ochoa, made famous by the Buena Vista Social Club and known as the Johnny Cash of Cuba.
Also on Thursday, Berklee performs “Moving La Verbena” at Les Arts, a modern riff on Spanish musical theatre with Latin rhythms and global influences. It is a prelude to Les Arts’ upcoming zarzuela production.
On Monday, Loco Club is hosting Eli “Paperboy” Reed, American soul and R&B artist.
And finally, if you like your Halloween celebrated with classical music, the Film Symphony Orchestra is playing favorite scary film scores – from Dracula to Jaws to the Addams Family – at Palau de les Arts.
Art
On Saturday, 31 October at La Mutant, Elena Carvajal presents I was told not to make eye contact with Tom Cruise. The performance piece is ostensibly about film extras and explores what happens to people living on the margins. Interestingly, it includes non-professional actors and community members. The title comes from a fascinating 2023 Guardian interview with record-holding film extra Jill Goldston.
Sports
Copa del Rey football matches have been postponed in light of the Toledo train crash to the 5 and 10 November.
The Valencia Boat Show is back. For anyone wanting to see the latest in sailtech, along with food and music, the Veles e Vents building is the centerpiece of this marine expo.
Community Calendar
For teens aged 14-19, Acting in English has a new filmmaking workshop starting 15 November, led by award-winning creative director Marvi Lacar. It covers cinematography, camera work, lighting, composition and video editing. Register for a trial class at the link.
Valencia All Over the Place has more on the way if you missed the Halloween stand-up special at La Fabrica del Hielo. Upcoming talks include Battle of the Boulevards plus a surprise option from host Alexey Timbul.
Jon’s Tours has another weeked of excursions. Guadalest and Javea on Saturday. Albarda Gardens and Denia on Sunday. Small groups of max 8 people. Over 16s only.
Coming Up
Cuina Oberta is back next month. Menus and reservations are now open. It’s a chance to dine at some of the city’s finest establishments for fixed-price menus, including some Michelin-starred venues. But book early if you have your heart set on a particular place.
CAHH Anniversary Month. The contemporary art museum will have a special program of events to celebrate its birthday, including a concert with Michelle David & The True-Tones on 14 November.
