Having just had the Easter holidays, Valencia is lucky enough to celebrate yet another holiday – this time a local one in honor of Valencia’s patron saint, San Vicente Ferrer.

This year it will take place on Monday 25th April, which means that many businesses, including Euroace, will be closed. Despite it being an annual festival, many Valencians don’t know much about the history or origin of this celebration, and even about the events taking place in the city.

So, what is this holiday all about?

Why is this day celebrated in Valencia?

“San Vicente Ferrer” was a philosopher and a Dominican preacher, who was also known as “Sant Vicent el del ditet” because it’s said that he used to make miracles happen using his index finger! He is now the patron saint of Valencia and so a holiday is taken in remembrance of him.

He was born on January 22^nd, 1350 in Valencia and dedicated his life to traveling on his donkey all over Spain and other European cities, spreading his thoughts on religion and performing ‘miraculous acts’  everywhere he went. In 1410 he founded the first registered orphanage in the world right here in Valencia, before he died in Britanny in 1419.

San Vicente Ferrer – 2022

Every year, Valencia hosts many events to commemorate their patron saint. Look out for many religious ceremonies such as masses, theater performances, and parades celebrated in plazas across the city, mostly during the weekend of 23rd – 24th April.

During the celebrations, groups who organize the events act out various short plays based on events that were said to have happened in San Vicente’s life. At different points across the city, 12 alters are assembled with images and figures of the Saint, which are known as “Pujà del Sant”, (in English “To lift the saint up”).

Perhaps this celebration is not as well-known as others, but the fact that it is in honor of the patron saint of the city makes it a special celebration for Valencians!