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There are many great festivals in Europe each year - and one of the most enjoyable for visitors to Spain is the Las Fallas festival, which is held in Valencia in March. For four days every year, the city's residents mark the end of winter and the impending arrival of spring by building huge puppet structures that are then ceremoniously set on fire. Some of the puppets surpass 15 metres in height and therefore have to be assembled days ahead of the festival. While strolling through Valencia before the event begins, you might notice some of these puppets being put together on the street corners of the city. As well as daily puppet parades, which take place all over Valencia, each day at 14:00 local time the Plaza del Ayuntamiento is filled with firecracker explosions as part of La Mascleta, which literally translates to the concert of gunpowder. Pagan rituals marking the arrival of spring are thought to have inspired the festival. Back in the 16th century, residents of Valencia marked the start of spring, and all the new life the season brings, with the lighting of fires across the city. As well as this, street lamps were hung on wooden poles around Valencia, which mirrors the puppet structures seen during Las Fallas today. A holiday to Spain would not be complete without the chance to taste some of the food and drink for which the country is famous. During Las Fallas, residents often take part in cooking competitions, battling with their neighbours to prove their paella is the best. Make sure you try a plate of this famous Spanish dish, maybe washed down with a delicious glass of sangria, a refreshing blend of red wine, orange juice, spirits and fruit pieces. Another food closely linked to Spain is the tortilla, which can be enjoyed hot or cold and usually contains a mixture of potatoes and onions, or a combination of vegetables such as red peppers. Before the festival officially begins, make sure you get a great spot along one of Valencia's winding streets to ensure the best view of all the exciting action and the chance to take some fantastic pictures to show family and friends on your return home. If you're looking to take in the Las Fallas festival in Spain, First Festival Travel offers numerous tours that will let you do just that. We provide packages for many different festivals in Europe and are the experts in creating the perfect touring experience.
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Las Fallas festival, festivals in Europe,
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