Las Fallas – Valencia, Spain

For nearly three weeks leading up to the spring equinox, Las Fallas celebrations take over the Spanish city of Valencia. Fire, art, and tradition — specifically the burning of large sculptures — are the heart of contemporary Fallas events. The origins of Las Fallas date back to the Middle Ages when the arrival of spring was marked by the burning of used wood and furniture. Old belongings and rags were added to the bonfires, giving the wooden structures a human-like appearance. The fires were also a tribute to San Jose, patron saint of the carpenter's guild.

These bonfires evolved into the creation of the ninots central to Las Fallas celebrations today. Ninots are massive, lifelike statues made from various materials such as wood or papier-mache, often referencing cultural and current events, that are destroyed during Las Fallas. Along with the burning of the sculptures, fireworks, light shows, and flower offerings take place across Valencia during the celebration.

Experience It: Head to Plaza del Ayuntamiento at 2 p.m. for the start of Las Fallas activities each day. The fireworks displays take place each night, and the final day of the festival is when the burning of the structures takes place.