Las Fallas in Valencia!

So we're back from Las Fallas, having eaten plenty of famous Valencian paella and Valencian oranges. Las Fallas was one of the coolest things I have ever seen. The neighborhoods in Valencia spend a whole year crafting these elaborate scultptures (called ninots) which are made out of wood, paper-mache, and plaster. At midnight on St. Joseph's Day (March 19), they set off fireworks and light them all on fire. The one we saw was probably about 40-60 feet tall, and the heat from the flames was so intense that the whole crowd starting running backwards to get away. It's basically a firefighter's nightmare and a pyro's dream.

We got there the day before La Cremá (the burning), so we got to see the parade where everyone dresses up in regional/historical costumes. They basically walk all day in these elaborate costumes. They go all out, too--check out this dog in the traditional garb and hair piece.