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Las Fallas: The Cridà and the first Mascletà
Las Fallas are the most popular street festivals in Europe and yesterday they were officially inaugurated in Valencia.
Last night, around 45,000 falleros vibrated with the words of the Valencia Mayoress Rita Barberá and the Falleras Mayores (festival queens) Marta Agustín and María Berbel.
This year, the traditional act of the Cridá, originated in 1931, had a peculiar innovation. It was supported by an aerial acrobatic show with giant balloons accompanied by lights, images and smoke.
Serranos Tower
Once the Crida was finished, a firework display took place and then the committee walked along the Caballeros street towards the Lady of the Forsaken Basilica, where the Falleras Mayores and their courts laid bunches of flowers on the Virgin’s feet.
At two o’clock on the same day, the first mascletà, was displayed at the Plaza del ayuntamiento, the main square in front of the Town Hall where were thousands of people enjoying under a shining sun. These mascletàs will took place at the same time up to St. Joseph’s Day (19th March), the closing day of the festival. It is a a unique concert of gunpowder, an event that should not be missed by anyone who plans to experience the genuine Fallas atmosphere.
La Cridá marks the official opening of the Fallas Festival.
Fallera Mayor
About the Cridá
Crowds of onlookers and all the Fallas Committees gather beneath the Serranos Towers, one of historical Valencia’s best-known monuments, usually on the last Sunday in February.
After a spectacular inaugural display of light, sound, music and fireworks, the “Fallera Mayor” of Valencia (elected festival queen), surrounded by her Court of Honour and the city authorities, invites everyone to enjoy the imminent fiesta, proclaiming its excellence and virtues.
La Crida 2009 Fireworks – 22nd February
La Cridá 2009 - 22nd February
Mascletá 2009- 22nd February
- Source: www.fallasfromvalencia.com
- Main Photo: ©Anroir http://www.flickr.com/photos/64119933@N00/427001125
Have you ever been in a Mascletá?
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My husband and I usually take a city break for our anniversary in March and last year we went to Valencia, a very nice experience. We do recommend it. The city is wonderful, ideal for everybody, young, old and kids! Las Fallas are unique!
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