What is Falla? A Guide to the Spanish Tradition of Burning Caricatures
If you are looking for a unique and spectacular way to celebrate the arrival of spring, you might want to check out falla, a traditional festival that takes place every year in Valencia, Spain. Falla is a word that means both "torch" and "failure" in Valencian, and it refers to the giant constructions of inflammable materials that are burned to ashes on the night of March 19th, the feast day of Saint Joseph. These constructions, also called fallas, are based on figures that are caricatures (ninots) of politicians, celebrities, or other public figures that are mocked or criticized for their actions or behaviors. Falla is a festival that combines art, humor, fire, and social commentary, and it attracts millions of visitors every year who want to witness this spectacular display of creativity and rebellion.
Introduction
Falla is a festival that has been celebrated in Valencia since at least the 18th century, although its origins are not clear. Some historians trace it back to the medieval practice of burning old furniture and wood on the eve of Saint Joseph's day, as a way of cleaning up and preparing for spring. Others link it to the pagan rituals of fire worship that were common in many ancient cultures. Whatever its roots, falla has evolved over time to become a complex and elaborate cultural expression that involves thousands of people and hundreds of associations (falleros) that work all year round to create and display their fallas. Falla is also recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2016.
falla
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Falla takes place every year from March 15th to March 19th in Valencia, although some smaller towns and villages in the region also celebrate it. During these days, more than 700 fallas are installed in different locations around the city, creating a colorful and festive atmosphere. The fallas are usually accompanied by music, fireworks, parades, and other events that make falla one of the most lively and vibrant festivals in Spain.
The Process of Making and Burning Fallas
The process of making a falla is a long and meticulous one that requires a lot of skill, creativity, and teamwork. The falleros are organized into committees that raise funds, design, and construct their fallas, often with the help of professional artists (falleros mayores). The materials used for making a falla vary, but they usually include wood, cardboard, paper-mâché, polystyrene, or other combustible substances. The ninots are usually made with clay, plaster, or wax, and they are painted with bright colors and realistic details. The size and complexity of a falla can vary greatly, but some can reach up to 20 meters high and weigh several tons.
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The themes and messages of a falla are usually related to current events, social issues, or popular culture. The ninots often represent politicians, celebrities, or other public figures that are mocked or criticized for their actions or behaviors. The ninots often represent politicians, celebrities, or other public figures that are mocked or criticized for their actions or behaviors. The ninots often have witty captions or signs that explain the meaning or the message of the falla. Some of the topics that are commonly addressed by the fallas are corruption, environmental issues, social media, gender equality, immigration, or international conflicts. The fallas are meant to be humorous and satirical, but also to raise awareness and provoke reflection on the problems of the society.
The fallas are displayed and judged during the days of the festival, and the public can also vote for their favorite ninots. The best fallas receive prizes and recognition from the authorities and the media. However, the fate of all the fallas, except one, is to be burned on the night of March 19th, in a spectacular event called la cremà (the burning). The fallas are set on fire by the firemen, who also ensure the safety of the spectators and the buildings. The flames consume the fallas in a matter of minutes, creating a stunning visual effect and a symbolic act of purification and renewal. The only falla that is spared from the fire is the one that receives the most votes from the public, and it is called el ninot indultat (the pardoned ninot). This ninot is then exhibited in a museum along with other ninots from previous years.
The Cultural and Social Significance of Falla
Falla is more than just a festival; it is a way of expressing the identity and values of the Valencian people. Falla reflects their love for fire, art, humor, and social critique. It also showcases their creativity and craftsmanship, as well as their ability to adapt to new technologies and materials. Falla is a form of popular culture that allows the people to have a voice and to challenge the status quo.
Falla also promotes creativity and satire in the society, as it encourages people to use their imagination and their sense of humor to create and appreciate the fallas. Falla is a form of artistic expression that combines aesthetics, politics, and entertainment. It also stimulates critical thinking and dialogue among the participants and the viewers.
Falla also fosters community spirit and participation, as it involves thousands of people who work together to make the festival possible. Falla is a collective project that requires collaboration, coordination, and solidarity among the falleros and falleras. It also creates a sense of belonging and pride among the Valencian people, who share their culture and traditions with visitors from all over the world.
Conclusion
Falla is a unique and spectacular festival that celebrates the arrival of spring by burning caricatures of public figures. It is a festival that combines tradition, satire, and art in a stunning display of creativity and rebellion. It is also a festival that reflects the identity and values of the Valencian people, who use fire, humor, and social critique to express themselves and to challenge the problems of the society. Falla is a festival that you should not miss if you want to experience one of the most lively and vibrant festivals in Spain.
FAQs
What are some of the most famous fallas in history?
Some of the most famous fallas in history are:
The falla of 1937, which depicted Francisco Franco as a fascist dictator.
The falla of 1977, which celebrated the first democratic elections after Franco's death.
The falla of 1992, which commemorated the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's voyage to America.
The falla of 2004, which paid tribute to the victims of the Madrid train bombings.
The falla of 2018, which featured Donald Trump as King Kong.
How much does it cost to make a falla?
The cost of making a falla depends on its size, complexity, and materials. The average cost of a falla is around 60,000 euros, but some can cost up to 300,000 euros or more. The falleros usually raise funds through donations, sponsorships, or events throughout the year.
How can I visit or participate in falla?
If you want to visit or participate in falla, you should plan your trip well in advance, as Valencia gets very crowded during these days. You can find information about accommodation, transportation, tickets, schedules, and maps on the official website of falla: You can also join one of the many tours or activities that are organized by local agencies or associations that offer a closer look at the fallas and the falleros. You can also become a fallero yourself by joining one of the committees and contributing to the making and burning of a falla.
What are some of the other events and activities that take place during falla?
Some of the other events and activities that take place during falla are:
The mascletà, a daily display of loud and rhythmic fireworks that takes place at 2 pm in the main square of the city.
The ofrenda, a procession of thousands of falleros and falleras who offer flowers to the Virgin Mary, creating a huge tapestry on her image.
The nit del foc, the night of fire, which is the most spectacular fireworks show of the festival, taking place on the night of March 18th.
The cabalgata del fuego, the parade of fire, which is a performance of fire artists and dancers that precedes the burning of the fallas.
The paella, the typical dish of Valencia, which is a rice-based meal with meat, seafood, or vegetables, cooked in a large pan over a fire. It is usually enjoyed with friends and family in the streets or in restaurants.
How is falla related to other fire festivals around the world?
Falla is not the only festival that celebrates fire and its symbolic meaning. There are many other fire festivals around the world that share some similarities with falla, such as:
The Bonfire Night in England, which commemorates the failed attempt of Guy Fawkes to blow up the Parliament in 1605 by burning effigies of him and other figures.
The Hogmanay in Scotland, which marks the end of the year and the beginning of the new one by lighting bonfires, torches, and fireworks.
The Lantern Festival in China, which celebrates the first full moon of the lunar year by releasing lanterns into the sky or water.
The Holi in India, which welcomes spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil by lighting bonfires and throwing colored powders at each other.
The Burning Man in Nevada, USA, which is a temporary community of artists and enthusiasts who create and burn a large wooden effigy in the desert.
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