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:
- Official Program: Fallas.com
- Security & Evacuation Plans: Valencia City Council
- Traffic Restrictions: TransitValencia on X
Fallas is one of Valencia’s most treasured traditions. Stay safe, and enjoy the festivities!
