Last week was a tremendous week in my community. October Ninth is a day of celebration in Valencia because two big holidays occur on this date this year- Nou d’Octubre and Sant Dionís. These days are typically called the Region of Valencia Day and the Day of Lovers, respectively. Festivals are held from dusk to dawn within the city, celebrating the people’s independence, freedom, pride, religion, and love.
Nou d’Octubre is a traditional festival celebrated throughout the region of Valencia. October Ninth is a day set aside to celebrate freedom and show pride in the city, and the people of Valencia go all out to celebrate this national day. All businesses and schools close and people flood the streets of town. The events start the night before, October Eighth, at midnight. There is a huge firework show held in La Plaza del Ayuntamiento, which is located right outside of my apartment. The plaza is full of locals waving Valencian flags, singing traditional songs, and dancing to folk music. You can hear the popping of firecrackers and chanting of voices early into the morning The next day is full of events, including parades, concerts, processionals, dances and more! Every event that takes place is symbolic of the history of Valencia, which I'll tell you more about in just a bit!
