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La Crida in Valencia: tradition, emotions, and gastronomy

trastiendamarket

La Crida, celebrated on the first Sunday of March, marks the official start of the Fallas festival in Valencia. This event is not only a moment filled with excitement and tradition but also a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Valencia’s rich gastronomy. The city comes alive with colors, music, and, of course, irresistible traditional dishes.



A cultural event full of emotion

La Crida officially kicks off the Fallas festival, a moment of deep emotion and tradition for all Valencians. From the majestic Torres de Serranos, the Falleras Mayores of Valencia, dressed in their most traditional attire, alongside city authorities, proclaim the famous words: “Valencians i valencianes, fallers i falleres, gent de tot el món, ja estem en Falles!” This cry signals the beginning of weeks filled with celebration, music, and fireworks.


Before this grand moment, the Municipal Symphonic Band performs a concert of traditional “Fallas pasodobles”, filling the streets with festive energy. After the show, the magic continues with an impressive fireworks display lighting up the Valencian sky.


The ceremony concludes with the mayor handing over the keys of the city to the Falleras Mayores, Berta and Lucía. As part of the tradition, the Falleras Mayores, accompanied by their Courts of Honor, make their way to the Basilica to offer bouquets of flowers to the Virgen de los Desamparados, a gesture symbolizing devotion and respect for the city's patron saint.



Valencian gastronomy: a feast of flavors


During Fallas, gastronomy takes center stage. Dishes such as paella, pumpkin fritters, and horchata become the stars of the season. These are just some of the delicious flavors Valencia offers during this special time of year.


  • Paella Valenciana: made with rice, fresh vegetables, chicken, and rabbit, this is the quintessential dish during Fallas. At Trastienda Market, you can find the finest rice varieties, perfect for achieving the ideal texture that defines authentic paella.


  • Pumpkin fritters (Buñuelos de calabaza): soft, fluffy, and with a hint of pumpkin, these are fried to achieve a crispy outside and tender inside, then dusted with sugar. A traditional sweet treat perfect for sharing with family and friends.


  • Horchata de chufa: the region’s quintessential refreshing drink, made from tiger nuts cultivated in Valencia’s fertile fields. Its smooth and slightly sweet taste makes it the perfect companion for buñuelos, creating a delightful combination.


Have you ever experienced the magic of Fallas?



If you ever have the chance to experience La Crida and the Fallas festival in Valencia, don’t hesitate. You’ll be part of a unique celebration filled with light, music, flavors, and a tradition that pulses through every corner of the city. Embrace the Fallas spirit, where every moment becomes an unforgettable memory. Would you dare to immerse yourself in this extraordinary festival?


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