The city of Valencia will kick off its annual Fallas festival with a day of traditional celebrations on Sunday, February 22, 2026, marking the official countdown to the main events. The Fallas, a unique cultural event known for its vibrant displays of artistry and pyrotechnics, draws visitors from around the globe.
The festivities begin with the “Macrodespertà,” a massive awakening of the city intended to shake off the winter doldrums. Thousands of falleros and falleras – members of the Fallas committees – will take to the streets in a boisterous parade filled with noise, gunpowder, and excitement, signaling the arrival of the Fallas season.
The Crida, a traditional call to celebrate, coincides with the parade. The Crida will put voice to the fallero sentiment and close the day with a spectacle of light and color illuminating the night of Valencia.
The Macrodespertà 2026 is being spearheaded by the Falla Corona and executed by Pirotecnia Alto Palancia, and will officially launch the countdown to the festival’s peak. While active participation in the parade and the setting off of firecrackers is reserved for registered falleros, residents and visitors are encouraged to line the streets to witness the spectacle.
Following the morning’s pyrotechnics, a parade of musical bands will begin at 12:00 p.m. From Plaza de Tetuán, making its way to Plaza del Ayuntamiento, filling the city center with festive music and energy.
At 2:00 p.m., the mascletà, a powerful and coordinated firecracker display, will take place in Plaza del Ayuntamiento, courtesy of Pirotecnia Valenciana. The event is known to reverberate throughout the city.
Later in the day, the Fallera Mayor and Fallera Mayor Infantil will officially open the Fallas 2026 from the imposing Torres de Serranos. This ceremonial act marks the official start of the festival.
Macrodespertà 2026 Program
6:30 a.m. – Prayer by the Fallera Mayors of Valencia and their Courts of Honor to Saint Barbara at the Church of San Juan del Hospital.
7:00 a.m. – Children’s “Despertà.”
7:30 a.m. – “Macrodespertà” sponsored by Falla Corona. The event will conclude in Plaza del Ayuntamiento with a spectacular “terremoto” (tremor). *Note: Participation in the parade and subsequent breakfast is restricted to registered falleros. The public can view the event from designated areas.
12:00 p.m. – Parade of Musical Bands.
2:00 p.m. – “Mascletà” in Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
7:30 p.m. – “Crida” at the Torres de Serranos. Followed by a light and color show.
