Valencia takes unusual step: the 2025/2026 school year will be extended by one day so that on March 16, 2026, students can take a day off and participate in the main Fallas events. The move responds to numerous requests from parents, fallero commission representatives, and city officials who have insisted that children be free on the day the awards for the best children’s fallas are presented.
The calendar sparked debate after it was revealed that March 16 was originally scheduled as a school day. This triggered a wave of discontent among locals, as this date is key for festivities involving thousands of children. As a result, the Valencia city council appealed to the regional Ministry of Education to revise the school schedule.
Officials’ decision
The regional Ministry of Education, Culture, and Universities reviewed the request and agreed to an exception: March 16, 2026, will be declared a non-school day, and the school year for all city schools will extend through June 22. This way, the required number of school days will be formally maintained, while children can fully participate in traditional celebrations.
According to the head of the schools department, Jorge Cabo, the decision was made due to the unique circumstances, solely in the interest of students and their families. He noted that Fallas is not just a holiday but a core element of Valencia’s cultural identity, recognized by UNESCO as intangible heritage.
Reasons for the changes
The official report from the education inspectorate notes that the celebration of Fallas creates serious organizational challenges for schools and parents. During this period, the city center is closed off, large-scale events take place, and access to educational institutions becomes difficult. The situation is especially complicated on the day of the children’s Fallas prize-giving, when thousands of children and their families gather downtown.
The Valencia municipal government insisted that without an additional day off, many children would not be able to participate in the ceremonies and festive parades. As a result, following discussions with school representatives, parent associations, and Fallas commissions, it was decided to make up for the lost day by extending the school year.
Public reaction
The proposal to reschedule the school day sparked a strong reaction in the city. Representatives of opposition parties and various public organizations supported the initiative of parents and Fallas commissions. Parent associations were particularly vocal, emphasizing the importance of children’s participation in traditional events.
In December 2024, the municipal school board unanimously voted to request that regional authorities make March 16 a public holiday. The decision was supported by all parties, including opposition representatives and local activists. After several months of discussion, the regional Ministry of Education approved the change to the calendar.
Restrictions and conditions
Authorities emphasize that this is an exceptional measure and will not set a precedent for future years. The official document states that such changes are only possible in special circumstances and will not be applied automatically going forward.
In 2026, all schools in Valencia will finish the academic year on June 22, with March 16 becoming an official holiday for all students. In this way, the city authorities reached a compromise between legal requirements and residents’ interests, preserving traditions and ensuring compliance with educational standards.
