As October rolls around, the excitement for Halloween is beginning to bubble up. Costumes, candy, and all things spooky will soon fill the air, and what better way to celebrate this thrilling season than with a visit to a Pumpkin Festival? This charming event in Valencia on Friday combines the spirit of Halloween with a rich cultural experience, making it a must-visit for families and friends.

The history of pumpkins

Pumpkins have become a defining symbol of Halloween, primarily due to their association with the harvest season and their versatility for decoration. The tradition of using pumpkins dates back to ancient Celtic festivals, particularly Samhain, when people would carve turnips and leave them lit with candles to ward off wandering spirits.

When Irish immigrants came to America, they discovered that pumpkins, native to the region, were larger and easier to carve than turnips. This led to the practice of creating Jack-o’-lanterns, which soon became a Halloween staple. The bright orange hue of pumpkins not only evokes the autumn season but also adds a festive touch to decorations, making them perfect for both spooky and celebratory themes during this time of year. Now you know everything about these round, orange fruits lets tell you all about this Friday´s festival!

The rise of Halloween festivities in Spain

It is true that Halloween festivities in Spain differ significantly from those in the USA, so it’s wonderful to see that pumpkin events, such as this one in Benimamet, are playing a significant role in the growing popularity of Halloween festivities in Spain. These celebrations not only highlight the charm and creativity of local traditions but also encourage community engagement and a deeper appreciation for seasonal produce.

Spain’s Halloween celebrations tend to blend with Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day) on November 1st, emphasizing remembrance of deceased loved ones rather than just spooky fun. While costumes are becoming more popular, they are generally less elaborate, and trick-or-treating is not as widespread. Instead, local festivals, like the Festa de la Carabassa, celebrate pumpkins and seasonal produce, often centered around family gatherings and traditional foods, reflecting a unique cultural significance that sets Spanish celebrations apart.

Benimàmet´s Pumpkin Festival

On October 25th, the Lluís Cano square in Benimàmet will host a new edition of the Festa de la Carabassa of Horta de Campanar-Benimàmet, a celebration organized by Taula Per la Partida, the Benimàmet and Campanar Neighborhood Association, with the support of the Valencia City Council.

The festival, which has been successfully celebrated since 2015, is a vibrant highlight of the autumn season and is part of the dynamic Massa per a la Carabassa initiative. This exciting celebration not only promotes the consumption of seasonal and local products but also emphasizes the rich cultural heritage of the Valencian garden. Each year, the festival draws in families and visitors eager to immerse themselves in the flavors, traditions, and artistry that define this beloved event.

Attendees are greeted by a kaleidoscope of beautifully decorated pumpkins, showcasing the creativity of local schools and associations. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of roasted pumpkin, inviting everyone to partake in a communal snack that warms the heart and spirit. The festival offers an opportunity to connect with the land and its bounty, which no doubt fosters a deeper appreciation for locally sourced ingredients and the vibrant agricultural community.

Itinerary

The event kicks off at 5:30pm with an exhibition of decorated pumpkins by educational centers and associations, followed by a communal snack featuring roasted pumpkin and mistela at 6:00pm. For those who don´t know, Mistela is a sweet, fortified wine from Spain made by mixing grape juice with a distilled spirit like aguardiente. It is often flavored with spices or fruits and is usually enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert wine.

At 6:30pm, children can enjoy a storytelling session by El Gran Jordiet, and to wrap up the day, at 7:30pm, the GreenGos drum group will provide a lively finale to this free festival.