If there is one celebration steeped in history in the Valencian Community, it is October 9. A holiday that has been part of Valencian life since 1338, when—coinciding with the centennial of the conquest—the first procession of the Senyera Reial took place. This tradition continues today, though it is now complemented by many other festive activities such as concerts, dance performances, historical parades, and, of course, plenty of fireworks.
This year also marks the 750th anniversary of the death of James I, so the program is especially dedicated to the historic king of Aragon who conquered the Islamic taifa of Balansiya and founded the Kingdom of Valencia, with the recreation of a military camp from that era among the highlights.
But October 9 is not only a holiday for historical and military reasons; it is also the feast day of Saint Dionysius, the patron saint of Valencian lovers. This holiday is celebrated with the traditional mocaorà: men give women a silk handkerchief wrapped around marzipan sweets shaped like fruits, vegetables, and fireworks (piuleta and tronaor). Just a few days ago, the award for the best mocaorà of 2026 was presented, though there is a long list of bakeries and pastry shops that prepare these sweets exquisitely.
Schedule of Events for October 9, 2026, in Valencia
October 1–7
- Open House at the Palau de la Generalitat Valenciana.
October 4–13
- Medieval Market in the Turia Gardens.
October 6–8
- A 360° audiovisual projection on the facade of the Palau de la Generalitat Valenciana.
- “La Nostra Senyera” Exhibition in the Crystal Hall of Valencia City Hall: the Reial Senyera and James I’s sword will be displayed together for the first time.
Thursday, October 8
- Concert by the Valencia Symphony Orchestra and pianist Carlos Apellániz at the Palau de la Música.
- “Cant a la Senyera” with the Valentina Polyphonic Choir in the Crystal Hall of Valencia City Hall.
- The Grup de Dansa de l’Alcúdia, the Grup de Danses of the cultural organization El Piló, the Grup de Danses Arcude la Vall d’Uixó, and the Colla Va de Bó de Quart de Poblet will perform a showcase of Valencian dances, music, and songs in the Town Hall Square.
- Folk dance in the Town Hall Square.
- International Pyrotechnics Festival: a double show on the Monteolivete Bridge.
Friday, October 9
- A civic procession and floral tribute to James I will take place from Town Hall Square to the Cathedral, and from there to Alfonso the Magnanimous Square.
- Mascletà in the Town Hall Square
- The Bajada de Gloria procession from the Town Hall Square to the Glorieta.
- Procession of the Moors and Christians. From the Glorieta Gardens to Xàtiva Street.
October 9–18
- Dramatized tours on the history of James I through the streets of Ciutat Vella. To register, send an email to inscripcionturismo@valencia.es
