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Yes. That is the largest bonfire you have ever seen.
Yes. It is in the middle of the city of Valencia.
Yes. There were more... one at each intersection to be exact.
When we landed at the Valencia airport the first thing we heard was the sound of those fireworks that are just a flash and a loud bang. Well actually, we heard a ridiculous trumpet recording an a man with a British accent say, "Congratulations! You've just landed on time with Ryan Air. The airline with the cheapest fares and best on time records." More like, 'Ryan Air, the airline with the most hidden fees and obnoxious commercials blaring during your flight.' That's another story... Back to the bombing sound.
We headed to the beach after checking into our hotel and napped for a solid few hours, despite the air sounding like Bahgdad on a good day. After slight sunburn (sunstroke in Stephen's case) we headed back to shower and head to town to see the monumentos before they were burnt to a crisp the following night. Our first night we wandered around and gawked at the ridiculous statues we came across at various intersections. We never knew where we were and at times we were going in circles, passing the same monumento every five minutes. Eventually we made our way to a bridge that was packed with people and managed to make our way across. Once on the other side, we watched the most amazing and slightly terrifying display of pyrotechnics. Fourth of July has a lot of work to do to compete.
The walk home felt like I was leaving Summerfest, only people were melting garbage cans and faces with fireworks gone wrong... and ambulances drove through the crowd at speeds most likely against the law in the States.
The next day, Chelsea, Ben and I went for a run to the centro ciudad to do some shopping at Spain's largest food market, Plaza Mercat. IT WAS CLOSED. Like everything else in Valencia, besides restaurants. We decided the last day of Las Fallas is like Valencian Christmas. Everyone takes off and families stroll along as their 5 year old children light fireworks peligrosos.
Because of that, it was beach time. However, it was a chilly 63 degrees and breezy. Little sunbathing occured. But we soon got our share of heat...
After waiting in a crowd, quickly turned mosh pit, for over 2 hours. The main monumento was about to be lit. (see photos and video) I have three things to say about this spectacle:
1. Sadly, this is the furthest thing from being legalized in the States... by a long shot.
2. Yes. It is probably absolutely horrible for that hole in our ozone layer.
3. This is definitely something to see before you die.
Coming Soon... relaxation in Alicante.
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