After the excitement of Sunday’s events, marked by the traditional «Crida,» which officially marks the arrival of the Fallas festival, we can finally immerse ourselves in the key events that define this spectacular celebration. The unmistakable roar of firecrackers, the rhythmic beats of explosions, and the electrifying energy of the crowd will come to life starting March 1st, as the city eagerly welcomes its first mascletà.

We´ll dive into what a mascletà actually is a bit later, but after you see and hear one properly for the first time, it is easy to understand why its explosive sounds pulls in thousands of locals and tourists, sparking a lively celebration of life, creativity, and community from the moment the mascletà begins. As the city buzzes with excitement, the mascletà transforms into more than just an event; it becomes a vibrant expression of Valencia’s rich cultural heritage and the spirited heart of its people.

This week’s blog is your ultimate guide to Valencia´s famous mascletà! We’ll cover everything you need to know about these thrilling pyrotechnic displays, from their fascinating origins to when and where you can experience them.

Early origins of the Mascletà

The mascletà originated in the late Middle Ages, around the 18th century, amongst a special group of people, Valencian carpenters. The carpenters would celebrate the feast of Saint Joseph (San José), their patron saint, by burning leftover wood and materials from their workshops. This practice was a way to clear out the old and welcome the new, symbolizing the arrival of spring. As part of these celebrations, carpenters began to incorporate firecrackers and fireworks into their festivities. The loud noises were believed to ward off evil spirits and were a way to attract attention to the celebration. The use of gunpowder became more common, leading to the development of more elaborate pyrotechnic displays.

By the 19th century, the practice of using firecrackers had evolved into a more organized event. The mascletà began to take shape as a distinct form of pyrotechnic display, characterized by its rhythmic explosions and powerful sounds. It became a central feature of the Fallas festival, which was officially recognized in 1865. The first official mascletà is believed to have taken place in 1885. As the festival grew in popularity, the mascletà became a daily event during the Fallas celebrations, particularly in the lead-up to the main event on March 19th, the feast day of Saint Joseph.

The art of the Mascletà

What sets the mascletà apart from other fireworks displays is their focus on rhythm and sound rather than visual spectacle. Each mascletà is a carefully choreographed performance, featuring a series of firecrackers, rockets, and other pyrotechnic devices that create a symphony of noise. The goal is to produce a harmonious blend of sounds that build in intensity, culminating in a thunderous finale.

The artistry involved in crafting a mascletà is immense. Pyrotechnicians, known as «pirotècnics,» spend months designing and perfecting their creations. Each mascletà is unique, with different combinations of explosives, timing, and techniques that result in a distinct auditory experience. This individuality is what makes each event special, as no two mascletàs are ever the same.

Where to hear and see the Mascletà during the Fallas festival

The Fallas festival runs from March 1st to March 19th, and the mascletà always takes center stage in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The schedule always includes a daily mascletà at 2PM where crowds and crowds of people gather all around this central square to witness the explosive performance. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:

• March 1st-19th: Daily mascletà at 2PM
• March 15th-19th: The final days of the festival feature the most anticipated mascletà shows, with larger crowds and heightened excitement as the festival reaches its climax.
• March 19th: The final mascletà, known as the «Mascletà de la Cremà,» marks the end of the festival. This event is particularly special, as it combines the traditional mascletà with the ceremonial burning of the fallas, symbolizing renewal and the arrival of spring.

Now you know everything about Valencia´s famous Mascletá, the only thing left is for you to experience one! Leave us a message below to share your thoughts about Fallas!

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