Barcelona Carnival
Spain is renowned for its variety of food, art, and culture and festivals are a great way to celebrate these.If you’re planning a trip to Spain, here are three festivals that will help you enjoy the countries rich and diverse culture:
Las Fallas in Valencia
Those visiting the Mediterranean coast in spring should brace themselves for one of the most spectacular celebrations in Spain. Las Fallas, held March 15-19, began as a way to praise Saint Joseph many centuries ago and features parades, fireworks and bonfires.
Satirical papier-mâché statues greet thousands of spectators who flock to the festival each year. Firecrackers explode at 2 p.m. each day in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, creating a euphony known as la Mascletá. Neighbourhoods also celebrate by firing dozens of masclets simultaneously.
This festival also includes the Ofrenda de Flores a la Virgen de los Desamparados, a parade of costumed villagers that wind through the streets, delivering bouquets of flowers to a shrine for Valencia’s patron Virgin.
Be sure to attend one of the world’s most impressive firework displays in the Paseo de la Alameda on March 18 as the celebration draws to a close. Then marvel as residents create giant bonfires to torch the papier-mâché figures.
The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona
Even if you’re not into risking life and limb, attending The Running of the Bulls is filled with excitement. The bulls run as part of the San Fermin festival, held July 6-14. Daily runnings start July 7 and are open to anyone 18 and up. Balconies provide ideal viewing, but side streets are blocked off for spectators as well. Crowd estimates average 1,000,000.
Runners wear traditional clothing: white shirt and trousers with a red neckerchief at the waist. The event begins with song and prayer. Rockets are fired to signal the start of the running at approximately 8 a.m. when six bulls are released into the streets near Town Hall Square. The bulls travel at approximately 24 kilometres an hour on a route stretching 826 meters.
Carnival in Barcelona
If Rio isn’t in your travel plans this year; those wishing to experience Carnival should consider Barcelona. This festival has gained popularity since a 44-year ban was lifted in 1980. Each March, more and more visitors assemble in Barcelona to see the elaborate floats and costumes.
The main event takes place on Avinguda Parallel, near Poble Sec and Raval streets. More than 2,000 parade participants dance and sing while traveling the route. The event draws an average of 35,000 spectators.Other activities include smaller parades, children’s games, costume contests, food eating contests and decorating contests. The fun wraps up just in time for Ash Wednesday.
If you want to take part in any of these festivals, use a flight comparison tool to help you find a great deal on your flights to Spain.