Battle of Flowers concludes July Fair, pending thermometer readings

The start of the celebration depends on the announced temperature drop to ensure the health of participants and horses.

Generic image of the Batalla de Flores in Valencia, featuring decorated floats and confetti.
IA

Generic image of the Batalla de Flores in Valencia, featuring decorated floats and confetti.

The July Fair in Valencia concludes this Sunday with the Battle of Flowers, an event that could be affected by high temperatures if the announced thermal descent does not occur.

The Battle of Flowers, the closing event of the July Fair in Valencia, is scheduled to begin at eight in the evening, but its execution depends on the announced temperature drop for this Sunday. With a yellow heat warning in effect, the organization might have to delay the start to ensure the health of the public, the participants on the floats, and the horses that will pull the vehicles, who will undergo a veterinary examination.
The Battle, which this year features 30 floats, is considered a type of contest with ephemeral themed creations, divided into categories and judged by a jury. The City Council has increased the prize money for this event, with the Barón de Cortes Prize being the highest award. The special category 'A' includes vehicles for the main falleras and their courts of honor for 2025 and 2026, as well as the Regina dels Jocs Florals of Lo Rat Penat, where creativity is valued.
Most of the floats are built in the Ciudad del Artista Fallero (City of the Fallas Artist). The master artist, Vicente Julián García Pastor, creates the floats for the current courts, inspired by Nature and the character of Bambi. Other artists like Jordi Palanca and Sergio Carrero also participate with creations inspired by the Latin Sail and a phoenix. These pieces, sometimes recycled for the Fallas festival, aim to enhance the prestige of the participating workshops.
The «punxà» ceremony, held in the Ciudad del Artista Fallero, has become a summer version of the Fallas Gala. This ritual, where flowers are incorporated into the floats, has been adapted with customized t-shirts and dinners. Both the «punxà» and the Battle are considered a testing ground for future falleras, who will capture attention in just over a month and a half.
1.2 million carnations of "excellent quality" are expected for the celebration. The closing event of the July Fair will be the traditional fireworks display at 11 PM in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.