If you’re living in Valencia or just visiting during the fall, one of the most exciting dates on the calendar is October 9th – a day full of  history, tradition, and culture. This is Valencia’s regional holiday, known as the «Dia de la Comunitat Valenciana» and it celebrates the day in 1238 when King Jaume I reclaimed the city from Moorish rule, marking a pivotal moment in its history.

It’s a regional holiday filled with vibrant parades, cultural events, fireworks, and the exchange of mocadorà, marzipan-filled handkerchiefs, as part of Valencia´s every own version of Valentines Day. Whether you’re new to the area or have been here for a while, here’s why you should mark this day and make the most of the celebrations.

Why is October 9th so important?

The 9th of October commemorates the day in 1238 when King Jaume I of Aragon (or James I) reclaimed the city of Valencia from the Moors. This event marked the beginning of Christian rule in the region, which shaped the identity and cultural foundations of what is today the Comunitat Valenciana. As a result, the day is both a celebration of freedom and a tribute to the rich history and unique identity of Valencia. It’s an opportunity for the locals to honor their roots, and for students like you, it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Valencian culture.

Key Events and Traditions

So, what can you expect if you’re in Valencia on October 9th? Let’s look at some of the main events and traditions:

Parade of the Senyera: The day begins with the Procession of the Senyera, the official flag of the Valencian Community. The Senyera is carried from the City Hall to the Cathedral without ever being lowered, a symbol of respect and pride. It’s followed by a parade featuring historical figures, including King Jaume I, knights, and soldiers, all dressed in medieval attire. It’s offers a chance to step back in time and witness an important part of Valencia’s heritage.

Fireworks and Music: Like many Spanish celebrations, no day would be complete without a spectacle of fireworks. The city comes alive with a fireworks display in the evening, especially in areas like Turia Gardens or along the riverbed. The famous «mascletà» — a rhythmic firework show — often steals the show, with synchronized explosions that shake the ground and echo through the city streets.

Mocadorà: If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in luck! The 9th of October also celebrates Valencia´s own Valentines Day – Sant Donís, the patron saint of lovers in the region. On this day, it’s traditional for couples to exchange a mocador (handkerchief) filled with marzipan treats shaped like fruits and vegetables. These sugary gifts are wrapped in a silk scarf, and giving one to someone special is a romantic gesture deeply rooted in local tradition.

Concerts and Cultural Activities: Throughout the city, you’ll find free concerts, street performances, and cultural events that showcase the region’s music and dance. From traditional Valencian folk music to more modern performances, the streets and squares of Valencia become a hub of artistic expression.

Other exciting events

This year, the city is also welcoming a Great medieval market to the Turia gardens. What was life like in the time of Jaume 1? What did people work with? What were the trades like? When October 9th approaches, these are some of the questions that are usually on peoples minds and we all want to learn about the traditions of this special day – thats why the Turia gardens will be filled from October 5th-October 12th with medieval houses and stores.

The Balconet market also returns this year with the objective to show how objects were made by hand in the past and to value this craft in a world where everything is just a click away with a mobile or tablet. There will also be tournaments, music performances and children´s attractions.

The muncipal Symphonic Band of Valenica will offer a free concert at the Palau de la Musica to celebrate the 9th of October.