Murcia smells spring: Thousands attend colorful "Batalla de las Flores" parade

"Murcia smells like spring" - this phrase ceased to be just a metaphor this Thursday, becoming the most repeated phrase in various corners of the city. The historic Battle of the Flowers (Batalla de las Flores) parade returned to the streets, drawing crowds of locals and tourists who wanted to see this magnificent springtime spectacle for themselves

Batalla de las Flores in numbers
Flowers	More than 25,000 items
Performances	Approximately 50 groups and artists
Confetti	300 kilograms
Serpentines	300 kilograms

The smell of spring from the very morning

From the early morning hours, the work of experienced florists could be admired in the city's squares and on Alfonso X El Sabio Avenue. They were live decorating the platforms (carrozas) taking part in the afternoon parade. The scent of more than 25,000 flowers wafted through the air, making time pleasant for passersby, and eventually into the hands of the delighted public who thronged to the event.

Crowds on the streets and international visitors

In the early afternoon, the central streets of the city, through which the historic parade was to pass, turned into a veritable sea of people. The glorious spring weather was conducive to admiring the spectacular floral compositions, colorful costumes and numerous artistic performances taking place along the entire route.

The colorful procession began on Gutiérrez Mellado Avenue and then passed through Murcia's most important landmarks, such as: Alfonso X, Plaza de Santo Domingo, Alejandro Séiquer, Plaza Cetina, Isidoro de la Cierva, Plaza de los Apóstoles, Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, Arenal Street, Glorieta de España, Martínez Tornel, Puente Viejo, Plaza Camachos, Hernández del Águila, Pasarela Miguel Caballero and Teniente Flomesta.

In total, the parade featured some 50 performances. The event had an international flavor, opening with a band of bagpipers from Malta, which is also scheduled to perform at the famous "Sardine Funeral."

Exceptional news and respect for tradition

A real innovation during this year's edition was a special gate spraying the scent of orange blossom (azahar), characteristic of Murcia at this time of year. The procession also included traditional platforms dedicated to local groups and festivals, such as Tunas, Moors and Christians (Moros y Cristianos), the Funeral of the Sardine (Entierro de la Sardina) and traditional farmers (huertanos).

The "Talent of Murcia" platform featured well-known influencer and online creator Kalon Bay, who presented makeup specially designed for the occasion. Her presence gave this traditional celebration a contemporary and creative touch. The City Council (Ayuntamiento), on the other hand, opted for the classic by preparing a traditional, richly decorated horse-drawn carriage.

Grand finale in front of City Hall

One of the most spectacular moments was the "Homage to the Coat of Arms of Murcia" held in front of the City Hall building. The gathered spectators witnessed a breathtaking pyromusical spectacle accompanied by a rain of red confetti and colorful smoke. All this took place to the rhythm of the Murcia anthem, performed by the Agrupación Musical de Beniaján orchestra.

In order to provide viewers with a unique experience, the organizers doubled the momentum of the show this year compared to last year - as many as 400 loads of red confetti and large-scale streamers were launched, which combined with fireworks to create an unforgettable display.

Morning attractions for the little ones

The festival also kept children in mind. From early in the morning, the Glorieta de España square hosted free workshops aimed at popularizing the city's coat of arms. The youngest participants could there: