This year, Aras de los Olmos, a charming Valencian municipality, will be transformed into a vibrant floral scene during the 6th edition of the “Aras en Flor” festival, which will take place from May 25 to June 30. This annual event stands out for its focus on gardening and outdoor design, attracting both locals and visitors with its spectacular ephemeral gardens and flower-decorated facades.
The festival, organized by the City Council, will allocate 17 spaces for gardening projects where participants from all over Spain will be able to compete in two categories: Design, and Design and Execution. Prizes for the winners range from 200 to 600 euros, with a special prize of 500 euros for the best conceptual proposal in the Design category.
In addition, this year a special category for schools has been added. Schools will be able to participate following the same competition rules, competing for a prize that includes an educational visit to the Big History Center and the Ecomuseum of Aras de los Olmos. This initiative seeks to promote environmental education and design among students.
The Facades in Bloom contest will also encourage residents to decorate the exterior of their homes, with a one-time prize of 400 euros for the winner. Registration and submission of entries must be completed by April 19, with garden construction scheduled for May 20-24. Prizes will be awarded on June 1 at the Ethnobotanical Garden, and the gardens can be visited until June 30, 2024.
The official program of Aras en Flor 2024 includes a variety of activities for all tastes. The following are some of the most relevant events:
May 25
-11:00h: Inauguration of Aras en Flor 2024 -12:00h: Botanical printing workshop with Timotea Aromas de Aras -19:00h: Poetic-musical event “Poesía de Pueblo en Pueblo” at the Ágora Astronómica.
June 1
-10:30h: 6 km scenic route with Javier Sebastián -13:00h: Awards ceremony of Aras en Flor 2024 at the Ethnobotanical Garden -22:00h: Theatrical performance of “La venganza de la Petra” by Carlos Arniches at the Municipal Theater.
June 15
-10:00h: Meeting at Mojón Triginio, point of confluence of the ancient Kingdoms of Aragon, Castile and Valencia -17:00h – 01:00h: Night photography workshop with Nelo Olmos at Big History
June 22
-11:00h: Screening and conference with the Gancheros del Turia Cultural Association at the Municipal Theater -23:00h: Observation of the Strawberry Moon with wine tasting at the Ágora Astronómica.
June 29
-11:00h: Children’s Escape Room “Invisibles” at the Municipal Theater -18:00h: String Chamber Concert of the University of Valencia at the Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles Parish Church -22:00h: Open-air cinema screening with discussion of the children’s short film “Ties” and the movie “Te estoy amando locamente” (I’m loving you madly).
The “Aras en Flor” festival not only celebrates the beauty and art of gardening, but also promotes citizen participation and highlights the importance of Aras de los Olmos as a destination within the Alto Turia biosphere reserve, recognized by UNESCO. In addition, it is one of the best places in Valencia for stargazing, making this event an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and floral art! Mark your calendars and come and enjoy a month full of creative and educational activities in Aras de los Olmos.
