This weekend, it’s October 9 celebration, the Day of the Valencian Community. Also, on this date Sant Dionís, the patron saint of lovers of Valencia, is celebrated. Our Spanish school El Rincón del Tándem tells you about the origins and typical traditions of these festivities ?
October 9 is the Day of the Valencian Community. Although its origins date back to the 14th century, it was only in 1976 that it officially became a regional institutional holiday (initially National Day of the Valencian Country and later National Day of the Valencian Community).
From a historical point of view, this festivity was meant to commemorate the arrival of King Jaime I in Valencia (1238) and the creation of the Kingdom of Valencia.
Nowadays, October 9 is the day dedicated to Valencian culture, traditions and history. In fact, in the program of events of the past years, Valencia used to host events related to old customs and traditions. Among them, the Moros y Cristianos parade in the city centre or the Correfoc, a fire show that begins in Calle Quart and ends in Plaza de la Virgen.
However, this year, due to the security measures for COVID-19, the program of celebrations is much smaller. In addition to the entrance of Moros y Cristianos and Correfoc, the 2020 celebrations do not include the traditional Fireworks Castle at the Turia Park, among other events.
Even so, it will be possible to visit the Real Senyera, the official flag of the Community that will be exhibited in the Glass Room (Sala de Cristal) of the Valencia City Council on October 8 and 9. During these two days, the Room will be open to the public at the following times:
– Thursday 8, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
– Friday 9, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
In addition to the traditional homage to the Senyera, there will be pyrotechnic shows as every year. As you already know, firecrackers and noise cannot be missed in Valencian festivities, so for two days (8 and 9) there will be fireworks in Valencia and Valencian towns.
Also, in this case, it is advisable to enjoy these shows from the balconies or in open spaces where it is possible to maintain a safe distance.
Among the many fireworks shows, we point out the Mascletá Aerea (October 9 at 1:00 p.m.) that will take place from the Terrace of the Valencia City Council.
If this is your first time in Valencia, surely these days you will stop in front of the windows of a pastry shop to admire the colourful marzipan sweets.
As we mentioned on October 9, Valencia also celebrates Sant Dionís’ Day; patron of pastry chefs and Valencian lovers. One of the most typical traditions to celebrate love in our city is to give the mocadorà or mocaorà as a present; marzipan figurines wrapped in knotted handkerchiefs.
So do not miss the opportunity to try these typical sweets and share them with your loved ones ?
Finally, we hope that this blog has helped you learn a little more about the local history and culture.
In our Spanish school we will also speak to all our students on October 9 so that they become familiar with the Valencian customs and traditions. ?
Happy day and until the next blog
