VLC:
Feria de Julio – Valencia's 31-Day Summer Madness

When the mercury hits 90°F in Valencia, the city doesn't retreat to siestas—it erupts into Europe's longest-running party. The Feria de Julio isn't just a festival; it's a marathon of music, bullfights, and midnight mojitos where the entire city transforms into one giant open-air celebration. For 150 years, this has been where Valencians prove they can outlast anyone at having fun.

The Can't-Miss Events of 2025

1. Battle of Flowers (July 28)
Imagine New Orleans' Mardi Gras meets Spanish floral warfare. Over 50 floats parade down Paseo de la Alameda while 10,000 spectators pelt each other with carnations, roses, and daisies. The twist? You're supposed to catch the flowers mid-air—locals claim it's good luck if you snag one without getting thorned.

2. The Night of 100 Concerts (July 18-19)
From 8 PM to 8 AM, the Jardines de Viveros hosts everything from flamenco to electronic DJs. Last year's surprise act? A Bruce Springsteen impersonator backed by a 12-piece Valencian brass band.

3. Bullfighting Controversy (Every Sunday)
The Plaza de Toros sees its most heated debates—both in the stands and outside them. While traditionalists cheer matadors, activists stage alternative events featuring acrobats performing where bulls once ran.

4. Water Wars at Turia Gardens (Weekends)
The dried-up riverbed becomes a gigantic water fight zone, with kids and adults alike armed with super soakers and water balloons. Pro tip: The best refill stations are near the Gulliver playground.

Secrets Only Locals Know

  • Free Tapas Crawl: Bars near Plaza del Ayuntamiento give free pinchos with every drink from 7-9 PM during the festival.
  • The Ghost Concert: At 3 AM on July 25, an unnamed band plays on the Puente del Mar bridge—no posters, no announcements, just pure Valencian magic.
  • Best View: Skip the crowds at the official fireworks and watch from Torres de Serranos instead.

PrestigeFly's Feria Survival Kit

U.S. travelers, this isn't Coachella—you'll need stamina for 31 days of revelry. PrestigeFly hooks you up with:

  • Business class flights with lie-flat seats (you'll need the rest)
  • A "Feria Fast Pass" granting skip-the-line access at all major events
  • 24/7 concierge service to book everything from flamenco lessons to emergency churro deliveries

Pro Tip: Rent an apartment in El Carmen—you'll be steps from the action but can escape when needed.