Valencia, Spain

Las Fallas: A Valencian Tradition

Participating in an Artistic Tradition Gain insight into the long-cherished Valencian custom of Fallas, the city’s annual festival welcoming the spring. This colorful street party began in the Middle Ages, when artisans disposed of unused wood each spring by setting it on fire. Over time, the church asked that their fiery ritual coincide with the annual celebrations for St. Joseph. The wooden offerings evolved into elaborately carved satirical figures called ninots , some of them many stories tall. You will begin with a panoramic tour of Valencia’s major sights, including a photo stop at the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences. Visit the Fallas Museum to view fascinating pieces dating to 1934 that were deemed too artistic for the fires. Next, pass by the Colón Market and Serranos Towers en route to the workshops of the Fallas Artists. Here, a skilled artisan teaches you traditional techniques so you can paint your own ninot as a memento of your visit. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.