The vibrant atmosphere of Valencia ignited on Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the iconic mascletà performed by Pirotecnia Peñarroja marked the official opening of the Fallas festival. This thrilling pyrotechnic display, titled 'Tacaeta,' featured over 120 kilos of explosive materials, captivating thousands gathered at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, known as the heart of the festivities.
Despite light rain and cooler temperatures, the public flocked to the central square, greeting the six-minute long spectacle with cheers. The sound of the mascletà rattled the streets, providing the perfect kickoff to nearly three weeks of celebrations filled with fireworks, music, and jubilant revelry.
The emotional backdrop for this year's Fallas was highlighted by calls for solidarity with victims affected by the severe weather disaster, known as 'dana,' which struck the region on October 29, 2024. The event also drew attention to the community's resilience, with attendees showing their support by applauding both the dazzling performance and each other.
Local officials attending the event included government ministers and leaders. Notably absent were members of the Valencian government, which drew protests from some attendees demanding the resignation of regional president Carlos Mazón for his handling of the recent natural disaster. A poignant reminder of the connectedness within the community, the atmosphere was both festive and reflective.
Valencia's Mayor María José Catalá expressed her appreciation for the city's recovery, stating, "These will be the most supportive, affectionate, and brotherly Fallas of their history." She noted the participation of 1,400 individuals from towns affected by the dana, all set to take part in the traditional Ofrenda to the Virgen de los Desamparados, another key event during the festival.
The Fallas festival is recognized as UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity and features various events scheduled from March 1 to March 19. Among these are daily mascletàs at 14:00 hours, leading up to the grand finale – the cremà, where the towering festival sculptures are set ablaze at the end of the celebrations.
This year's mascletà lineup includes some of the most renowned pyrotechnic companies:
- Sunday, March 2: Pirotecnia Gironina
- Monday, March 3: Pirotecnia Alto Palancia
- Tuesday, March 4: Pirotecnia Dragón
- Wednesday, March 5: Pirotecnia Pibierzo
- Thursday, March 6: Pirotecnia Zaragozana
- Friday, March 7: Pirotecnia Martí
With the backdrop of Valencia's stunning architecture, every evening is set to be filled with the bursts of fireworks, bringing both locals and international visitors together. The spirit of Valencia is bound to shine through both the celebrations and the community's expression of solidarity.
For onlookers unable to attend the events, elperiodic.com offers live streaming of the festivities, ensuring everyone can partake virtually. The atmosphere during Fallas promises to be charged with excitement and heart, celebrating not just the city's traditions, but its resilience and community spirit.
It is urged to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots, as crowds build quickly around the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Attendees are reminded to protect their ears, as the sound levels exceed 120 decibels, making earplugs highly recommended. With the unpredictable weather, checking forecasts before heading out is also wise.
Fallas 2025 is more than just fireworks; it showcases the heart of Valencia—a unique blend of history, culture, and community resilience. And among all festivities, the mascletà remains the standout tradition, bringing life to the streets and igniting the spirit of the city.