Battle of the Flowers in Valencia

Summer brings out the best in us. Our skin gets tanned, we wear vibrant colors, we look better and we emanate a different energy too.

And it appears to be that the same is true for cities, saving their best festivities and celebrations for this time of the year. There are festivities of all types and for all tastes, but I have fallen for this particularl one: Valencia’s Battle of the Flowers. And the name says it all. There is no justification for war anywhere, but if only all wars were like this one…

Imagine red carnations raining throughout the city to the rhythm of majestic carriages, elegant horses and festive music. A spectacle worth beholding, there is no doubt about that.

Those who’ve already experienced it will know that it’s best to arm yourselves with tennis racquets or similar, to use them as shields as you watch thousands of flowers fly across the Valencian sky. Those in the carriages, dressed in traditional costume emulating the bourgeoisie of the late 19th century also carry racquets that they decorate for the occasion. It’s worth staying till the very end to see the city fully covered in a multicolored blanket of flowers.

The Battle of the Flowers of Paseo de la Alameda began in 1891, and it takes place every last Sunday in July, to mark the end of Valencia’s Feria de Julio, which has been celebrated every single year since 1871. A summer festival full of activities and free events, among which we can highlight impressive firework displays and concerts of well-known artists. And all that with a side serving of the most succulent cuisine, travelling funfairs, and tempting street markets.

Valencia is just full of color and vibrancy in the month of July.

This year’s Battle of the Flowers of Valencia’s Feria de Julio will be held on Sunday July 26^th, at 8pm in the Paseo de la Alameda.

The novelty this year was adding this event to an online ticket selling system, which made it easier for those interested in attending to get their hands on a ticket. Every summer, Valencians and foreigners alike are dying to experience this colorful event and take part in the most beautiful of all wars. Most have already booked their Valencia apartment to not miss a thing. What about you?