October 9th, also known as “Nou d’Octubre,” is a significant day for the Valencian Community. It marks the regional holiday, and thus, there are celebrations across its territory. Below, we detail the October 9th festivities and events in Valencia, the capital and, therefore, where it holds the most significance.
If you decide to visit Valencia on this day and want to learn more about the city’s history, don’t hesitate to leave your backpack in the luggage lockers of LOCK & enjoy! located right in the center of Valencia. We are one of the most economical options for lockers, and if you book in advance, you can access discounts and promotions.
What is celebrated on October 9th?
October 9th commemorates the entry of James I the Conqueror, then King of Aragon, into the city of Valencia in 1238. The goal was to reclaim it, as it was under Muslim rule at the time. The most significant outcome was the establishment of the Kingdom of Valencia.
This day symbolically represents the birth of the Valencian people. However, the first celebration dates back to 1338, marking 100 years since the event.
October 9th Festivities and Events in Valencia
This holiday takes on special importance in both political and social spheres. Most activities and celebrations have a distinct cultural character, reflecting Valencian identity.
Festival “Som de la Terreta”
This event, organized by the Generalitat Valenciana for the first time, commemorates this important festivity for the Valencians. All activities aim to highlight the region’s cultural and musical diversity. The chosen date is Saturday, October 5th, at the City of Arts and Sciences.
In the morning, children play a significant role. There are workshops and games, bouncy castles, musical shows, yoga classes for the whole family, face painting, etc. The schedule is extensive, starting at 11:00 and ending at 15:00.
In the evening, there are a series of concerts featuring well-known artists. Entry costs only €2, which will be donated to local associations. Although the first concert starts at 16:00, at LOCK & enjoy! we advise you to arrive early to secure a good spot. The guest artists include:
- Funzo & Baby Loud.
- Íñigo Quintero.
- Itaca Band.
- Maldita Nerea.
- Marlena.
- Samurai.
We would also like to highlight that throughout the festival, there are numerous gastronomic spaces with food trucks, and you can also try typical Valencian products.
Valencian Lovers’ Day
The city of Valencia also has its own version of Valentine’s Day, coinciding with the regional community day, known as Sant Dionís. It’s a very traditional celebration.
The origin is quite curious as it also relates to the entry of James I into Valencia. In the 18th century, the Decrees of Nueva Planta prohibited celebrating this event, leading Valencian confectioners to protest by making marzipan sweets resembling the fireworks and rockets that could not be launched. These sweets were accompanied by fruits and vegetables, another symbol of this region.
Today, couples gift these sweets wrapped in a “mocadorà,” or handkerchief.
We invite you to buy this product in some of the city’s most notable confectioneries, such as Pastelería Galán or Forn Llatzer.
Municipal Symphonic Band of Valencia
On October 8th at 19:30, a concert by the Municipal Symphonic Band of Valencia will be held in honor of the regional holiday. It’s a must-see for lovers of Valencian band music; in 2023, more than 5,000 people attended.
This concert takes place at the Palau de la Música, specifically in the Iturbi Hall. Tickets can be purchased in person or via the website.
“Mascletás” and Fireworks
Firecrackers and gunpowder are essential elements of the October 9th festivities and events in Valencia.
While the exact dates and times are not yet known, in previous years, two “mascletás” have been held on different days, always at the Town Hall Square at 14:00. Additionally, there will be a fireworks display at night on the Paseo de la Alameda.
The Real Senyera
The Real Senyera is the official flag of the Valencian Community and thus holds particular significance during this festival. It is featured prominently in two key moments:
Firstly, on October 9th, the Senyera is lowered from the balcony of Valencia’s Town Hall. This marks the start of a procession that carries the flag to the city’s cathedral for a mass in its honor. Afterwards, it is returned to the town hall.
Secondly, the Real Senyera can be visited in the Crystal Hall of the town hall. Visiting hours are generous, from 10:00 to 20:00, offering a great opportunity to view one of the most important symbols of Valencian culture. Entry is free.
Just 5 minutes from the town hall, there’s a LOCK & enjoy! locker where you can leave your backpack.
There are numerous activities to enjoy in Valencia, so we invite you to visit on this important day. Make your booking for a day or hourly basis.
Sevilla