The ninots are extremely lifelike and usually satirical scenes and current events (like corrupt politicians and Spanish celebrities are particularly popular). They are crafted by neighborhood organizations and take about six months to construct (and often cost upwards of US$75,000). Many ninots are several stories tall and need to be moved into position with cranes.  

The ninots remain in place until March 19th, the day known as "La Crema." Starting in the early evening, young men chop holes in the statues and stuff them with fireworks. The crowds start to chant, the streetlights are turned off, and all of the ninots are set on fire at exactly the stroke of midnight . Over the years, the local firemen, called "bomberos," have devised unique ways to protect the town's buildings. And each year, one of the ninots is spared from destruction by popular vote and exhibited in the local Museum of the Ninot along with the other favorites from years past.

Besides the burning of the ninots, there is a myriad of other activities during the fiesta. During the day, you can check out the extensive roster of bullfights, parades, paella contests and beauty pageants around the city. Spontaneous fireworks displays occur everywhere during the days leading up to "La Crema", but another highlight is the daily mascletá which occurs in the Plaza Anyuntamiento at exactly 2pm . When the huge pile of firecrackers is ignited, the ground literally shakes for the next 25/30 minutes