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GROUNDBREAKING BEAT

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What looks like the end of the world is really the daily mascleta, an aural display of string-lined firecrackers ignited to produce a booming rhythm that rises to a crescendo in mere minutes.

 A TIME FOR HONOUR

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A different kind of music is found during the Ofrenda, when Valencians pay respects to the Virgin Mother by singing folk songs and carrying bouquets of fresh blooms to a wooden structure in her image.

 FANCY DRESS PARTY

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During the Ofrenda, Valencians don traditional costumes and parade through the city.

 LAY IT ON THICK

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A festival highlight, these ninots (cardboard effigies) made by locals tell an exaggerated tale of the city’s political state.

 FIRST SPARK

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On the last night of Las Fallas, crowds gather in different parts of town to prepare for the crema (burning of monuments), which begins with smaller ninots made by children being torched first.

 CATCHING FIRE

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A majestic ninot built in the middle of Valencia’s town hall is stuffed with fireworks then lit up as a grand finale.

 HEAT OF THE MOMENT

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For a long while, the city of Valencia burns bright with blazing ninots. The next morning brings a new start.

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