9th OCTOBER
On the 9th of October every year, the people of Valencia celebrate the national day
of their autonomous region. This is a historical commemoration of the date in 1238
when King James I officially entered the city of Valencia, freeing it from Moorish rule.

The 9th of October is today a public holiday throughout the Region of Valencia,
although the tradition is stronger and the celebrations much more lively in the city
itself. Further events are also organised by other institutions and groups, such as
some of the organising committees of the Fallas fiesta.

The 9th of October is also the day of St. Dyonisius, the equivalent of Valentine's
Day in Valencia. On this day the custom is for men to give the women what is
known as a “Mocadorà”, also called a “Mocaorà”: a bundle of marzipan sweets
wrapped up in a handkerchief.

---