fiesta fever
Benidorm, a vibrant city on Spain’s eastern coast, is renowned for its lively celebrations and traditional fiestas. Throughout the year, both locals and tourists come together to partake in these colorful events that reflect the rich culture and history of the region.
Monthly Fiesta Guide
JANUARY
- January 5th: The 3 Kings Parade – A grand procession starting from the Parque de Elche and culminating with a spectacular firework display at the Town Hall square.
- January 6th: 3 Kings Day – A national holiday celebrated with family gatherings.
FEBRUARY
- February 18th: The Carnival – Featuring two parades, one for children in the morning and a main adult parade in the evening.
- February 21st: Shrove Tuesday – Marked by the ritual Burial of the Sardine, signifying the beginning of Lent.
MARCH
- March 7th – 20th: Celebration of the 283rd Anniversary of Mare de Déu del Sofratge.
- March 15th – 19th: The Fallas Fiesta – A traditional Valencian festival with processions, street entertainment, and fireworks.
- March 17th: St. Patrick’s Day – A popular event where Benidorm turns green.
APRIL
- April 2nd – 10th: Easter (Semana Santa) – A significant religious event with various processions in the old town area.
- April 21st – 23rd: The Benidorm Elvis Festival – A three-day event celebrating the King of Rock n Roll.
MAY
- May 1st – 3rd: Fiesta of the Holy Cross – Featuring religious processions and the tasting of typical garden produce.
JUNE
- June 22nd – 24th: Hogueras de San Juan – Bonfires signifying the official beginning of summer.
JULY
- July 13th – 16th: Fiestas of the Virgen Carmen – Floral processions ending at the port.
- July 25th: St. Jaime Fiesta.
- Late July/early August: Low Festival – A rock and indie music event.
SEPTEMBER
- September 4th – 10th: Benidorm Pride – A series of events leading up to the Playa Levante parade.
OCTOBER
- October 9th: Regional fiesta celebrating the day of the constitution.
- October 12th: Fiesta Nacional de España.
NOVEMBER
- November 10th – 15th: The famous November Fiesta – Celebrating the town’s Patron Saints with processions, dancing, and fireworks.
- November 16th: Europe’s largest fancy dress party.
- November 18th: Fiesta of the Carxofa (Artichoke Fiesta).
DECEMBER
- December 24th: Christmas Eve – A festive evening where families gather for dinner and attend the Midnight Mass.
- December 25th: Christmas Day – A national holiday celebrated with family gatherings, feasting, and gift-giving.
- December 28th: Day of the Holy Innocents – Similar to April Fools’ Day, it’s a day for pranks and jokes.
- December 31st: New Year’s Eve – Traditional Spanish New Year’s Eve party at the town square with the customary 12 grapes eaten at midnight.
Important Note
These dates are for guidance as events can be changed or cancelled without prior notice. Always check local listings or official sources for the most up-to-date information.