The Unique Festivity of Las Fallas
From March 1st to 19th each year, the streets of Valencia, Spain, come alive with an extraordinary festive atmosphere. A variety of gorgeous, large-scale paper effigies are displayed on the streets and in squares to celebrate the local unique festival—Las Fallas. This festival is one of the three biggest celebrations in Spain. Originally, the residents of the Mediterranean region burned old furniture to drive away the spirits in their homes. However, Las Fallas has now evolved into a fire festival party, symbolizing the renewal of the old and the welcome of spring. The Origin of Las Fallas The origin of Las Fallas is rooted in a Mediterranean superstition. The residents of the Mediterranean widely believed in the existence of spirits and burned old furniture or other items in their homes on St. John's Day (June 22) to drive away these spirits. Over time, this superstitious culture has transformed into a tourist attraction in Valencia, Spain. The word "fallas" has two meanings. When capitalized, it refers to the name of the festival, while in lowercase, it refers to the paper mache figures that are born only to be burned. These figures mark the beginning and the end of the celebration. At the start of the festival, usually in early March, the fallas are placed in squares or at crossroads, thus initiating the festivities. Another theory suggests that local craftsmen were accustomed to hanging a shed outside their doors during winter to shield from the cold wind. The materials for these sheds were made from rudimentary tools, old furniture, and clothing. When spring arrived, the sheds were burned down. This is another story about the origin of Las Fallas. However, just like the debate over whether Jesus was born in December or on January 6th, this remains a topic of discussion. 🌟Miss Fallas During the festival, citizens vote for "Little Miss Fallas" and "Miss Fallas," followed by an award ceremony. Two days before the end of the festival, a parade and flower-offering event featuring all the Miss Fallas take place. Dressed in traditional Valencian attire, the Miss Fallas are adorned with beautiful, colorful skirts and intricate headpieces that accentuate their grace. The gentlemen's costumes resemble medieval attire, exuding a chivalrous aura, tall and handsome, complementing the rhythm of the band's music, looking very impressive. The parade culminates at the Plaza de la Virgen, where the Miss Fallas offer their flowers to the Virgin. According to custom, visiting the Plaza de la Virgen during the festival to pay homage to the Virgin is believed to bring peace and happiness for the year. Las Fallas is open to the public and attracts tourists from around the world every year. Valencia hosts a grand light show in the week leading up to the festival. As the lights dim and brighten, the noisy mood also quiets down. Looking at the magical fallas around, it feels as if one is in a dreamy fairy tale world. #ValenciaTravel #Fallas2024 #Documentary #StreetPhotography #Spain #StreetSnap #SeeTheWorld
