|
The calendar of popular fiestas is rich
and varied in Valencia. Each part of the year has its own celebration and
recollection of tradition. The bonfires of San Antonio Abad come first on the
calendar, with burning pyres of firewood and the blessing of animals. Of
particular note is the one held in Canals. On March 15th, the Fallas
dedicated to St. Joseph take over the streets of the capital and of over 60
other towns in the province. On the appointed day, huge catafalques bearing
cardboard figures are erected, to be burnt four days later amid a blaze of
fireworks. These are the fiestas which attract the largest number of
spectators and arouse most interest among visitors, drawn by the
colourfulness of the Passacaglia, the offering to the Virgen of the
helpless and the fireworks display.
The Corpus Christi, Fiesta of Moors and Christians and of course, the
famous Tomato fiesta "La Tomatina", are other fiestas of
Valencia.
|