Javea News Visit the Valencia Fallas March 2008

On March 17th we visited Valencia with some friends. The occasion being St Patricks day and middle of the fallas fiestas.
We travelled by train from Xeraco and arrived at the station just as the parades of falleras were passing on their way to collect their prizes from the ayuntamiento.

This is a good day for the fallas as there are many activities in the day.  Having received their prizes the groups marched back to proudly display them on their fallas.

There are several fallas constructed in the central area of the city , so it is not too difficult on the feet!!  However with time to spare before the mascaleta - loud noisy fireworks - we decided to take in the view of Valencia from the Cathedral tower in the plaza de reina. MISTAKE!!!!!  

The staircase was very narrow and seemed endless with very little space to stop for a rest.  Having reached the top it took us a good five minutes to get our breath back!  However the views were worth it - even though my legs could not stop shaking from the effort!!! And with the music of the festival all around it was a fantastic experience.
 
We chose to listen to the masceleta at 2pm from the adjoining Plaza - this was loud enough for us!! but once again a tremendous atmosphere!

After lunch we watched the Falleras parade through the Plaza with their flower offerings .  these were then threaded into a huge wooden framework and formed the cloak of the Virgin. this in itself is a spectacular sight.
 
at this point we decided to celebrate St Patricks day. We found a lovely Irish bar in the Barrio de Carmen -O'Haras. Here we  joined by several Americans, Spanish and Irish for a great sing song and dance!! At 8pm we decided we should make our way to the train.

Trains run every half hour and there are extra ones during the night for fallas. we were glad to find a seat and finally got back to Javea about 11pm. we were exhausted but what a great day. Thoroughly recommend the 17th for the fallas as there is lots happening. Maybe next year we shall stay to see the fabulous firework display at 1 am!!!