July Fair at Valencia is a traditional and extensive programme of events that take place in emblematic areas of the city. This fair is quite old, it has been celebrated since 1871 and it is considered as a joyful event that allows both citizens and tourists to enjoy amazing events held in the warmth of the fresh summer nights.
Famous performers, national and international, will be playing concerts at night in Viveros Gardens, and also in the Bullring the San Jaime bullfighting fiesta takes place, in which bullfights and bullfights with young bulls with the highest ranking matadors.
Also we can enjoy the City of Valencia International Music Band Contest, which, at weekends, alternates performances with the Music Palace (Palau de la Musica).
We also have the opportunity of contemplate the Batalla de Flores (Battle of Flowers), a spectacular parade of floats decorated with natural flowers that travels along the Paseo de la Alameda on the last Sunday of July by way of a closing ceremony for the fair, while the attending public throws flowers and petals, and the event being finalised with a mascletà (string of firecrackers).
Traditional and spectacular fireworks are one of the most exiting events of the fair, which are contemplated by thousands at weekends, and it is an excellent opportunity to applaud the imagination of the Valencian pyrotechnicians in the design of fireworks´ shapes and colours.
Viveros Gardens, are converted during Valencia July Fair in a large outdoor concert hall, with the best bands on the national and internacional scene. Check the schedule.
The Palau de la Música is the other point of meeting in Valencia July Fair through Jazz Festival, which takes place in July with the classic Jam Sessions and the free concert in the Gardens of Turia river in front of the Palau.
The city, taking advantage of the most pleasant summer nights, is also the scene of the fireworks displays that take place on Saturdays starting at 12 midnight.
At the beginning of the month, one of the most keenly anticipated events will be taking place; the International Music Band Competition, which has been held for over 120 years. A large number of bands, most of which compete and the others act as guests, will perform at the Opera and the Bullring.
Also remember these dates in your diary: the Great Night of Juliol, with musical performances over 30 stages spread around the city, tastings paella and museums open until dawn. It looks set to be an intense evening of culture, music, dancing, pyrotechnics, cinema and juggling, among other activities, and a number of Valencia's museums will also remain open. And also the popular Battle of Flowers in the Paseo de la Alameda, which marks the end of the show in July.
