Region of Valencia Day 2025

Every year on October 9, the people of Valencia commemorate their region's national day. This event commemorates the historic entry of King James I into Valencia in 1238, marking the city's liberation from Moorish rule. While the main festivities are on October 9, the celebrations kick off with spectacular fireworks at midnight on October 8, followed by various activities leading up to the big day.

Festivity Highlights

The following day, known as San Dionisio Day, marks the main celebration and is considered Valencia's version of Valentine's Day. A tradition called Mocaorà involves men gifting their girlfriends and wives a silk scarf filled with sweet marzipan. Each year, Valencian bakers create thousands of these marzipan figures to be given as special gifts to wives, girlfriends, and mothers.

Parade

After this sweet custom, the opening of the festivity starts with a traditional Descent of the Royal Flag from the History Museum and the procession follows. People are walking down the street to the Metropolitan Church Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria. During their walk, the procession stops at the monument of King James the First and leaves a floral tribute in front of the statue. From there, everyone continues their walk to the Town Hall, where the procession ends.

The second part of this festivity is filled with dancing, music, and people dressed like during a carnival. The main celebration is accompanied by numerous amusing events organized by the locals.

Valencia Medieval Market

In celebration of the Day of the Valencian Community, the Federation of Moors and Christians of Valencia will host a lively medieval market at Antiguo Cauce del Turia this year. For eight days (October 5-12), visitors can immerse themselves in a range of activities, including stalls with traditional gastronomy and crafts, exciting medieval tournaments, and attractions for children such as an eco-friendly merry-go-round, theater, and craft workshops. The event also features live medieval music, parades, falconry displays, and a medieval camp where guests can learn about the daily life of soldiers and artisans.

History

Region of Valencia Day or 'Día de la Comunidad Valenciana' is a regional holiday that commemorates King James I of Aragon's capture of Valencia from Moorish forces in 1238. Valencia, originally founded by the Romans, alternated between Christian and Moorish control from the 8th to the 13th century. King James I laid siege to the city in the spring of 1238, and after five months, the Moors surrendered on September 28. On October 9, he officially took possession of the city. On Valencian Community Day, many businesses and organizations close, with only some bakers and smaller food stores remaining open.