Traditional Festivals
In Alicante, there are numerous traditional festivals that take place throughout the year. From the Porrate de San Anton, celebrated in January, to the Day of San Nicolas on December 6th, this city preserves and values numerous celebrations, most of them with a religious character.
In Alicante, there are numerous traditional festivals that take place throughout the year. From the Porrate de San Anton, celebrated in January, to the celebration of San Nicolas, which takes place on December 6th, this city preserves and values numerous celebrations, many of them with a religious character.
Porrate de San Anton
In mid-January, Alicante is filled with tradition with the Porrate de San Anton, one of its oldest and most beloved festivals. This festivity, with centuries of history, began when farmers built a chapel in honor of the saint in the neighborhood that now bears his name, near the iconic Bullring (Plaza de Toros). During the days of the Porrate, contests, sports activities, and the exciting “Descenso de Galeras”, in which handcrafted wooden vehicles race down the slope of the old Tobacco Factory, now converted into the Las Cigarreras Cultural Center, are held. The most anticipated moment is the traditional blessing of animals, which gathers a large crowd in the Bullring.
Date: Mid-January
Las Cruces de Marzo
In the picturesque Barrio de Santa Cruz, at the foot of Monte Benacantil, Alicante celebrates one of its most colorful festivals during the first week of May. The narrow, winding streets come alive with beautifully decorated crosses crafted by neighbors using flowers and artisanal details. The festivities include costume contests, vibrant parades, traditional “despertas” to mark the start of each day, communal meals, and activities for all ages. Las Cruces de Mayo offers a glimpse into the authentic essence of Alicante.
Date: Variable. The first week of May
Corpus Christi Festival
The Corpus Christi Festival, held in early June, combines tradition and beauty. In recent years, it has revived historical elements from the 16th and 17th centuries, such as the installation of altars, traditional dances, and the decoration of streets and balconies. Highlights include the “nanos i gegants” (giants and dwarfs), dances, and elaborately decorated altars in the old town streets. One of the most moving moments is the afternoon procession, which stops at the Convent of the Blood Nuns, where the nuns sing hymns to the Holy Sacrament. Deeply rooted in Alicante’s history and culture, this festival offers visitors and locals a rich experience filled with art and tradition.
Date: Variable. Early June
Festivals in Honor of San Pedro and San Pablo of Tabarca
Every June 29th, theTabarca Island comes alive with the Festivities in Honor of San Pedro and San Pablo, a tradition deeply rooted in the local culture. San Pedro, the patron saint of fishermen, and San Pablo, one of the most influential apostles of Christianity, are essential figures for the people of Tabarca. The celebration becomes a link to the island’s history and maritime traditions, attracting visitors who wish to participate in this unique festivity. One of the highlights is the maritime procession, where the image of Saint Peter is carried on a decorated boat, followed by a flotilla of vessels. This aquatic parade honors the saint and reinforces the community’s connection to the sea. The festivities continue with live music, traditional dances, and a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky.
Date: Variable. End of June.
Festival in Honor of the Virgen del Carmen
In mid-July, Tabarca also hosts the emotional Maritime Pilgrimage in Honor of the Virgen del Carmen, coinciding with the busy tourist season. This event beautifully contrasts the solemnity of the procession with the joy of summer. On July 16th, the Virgin’s image is carried on a boat, while participants throw flowers into the sea in memory of deceased sailors, accompanied by hymns and Marian prayers. Both celebrations are a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Tabarca Island.
Date: July 16th
Great Moorish Landing
On the first weekend of August, Alicante revives its rich history with the celebration of the Great Moorish Landing, a festival that has become a staple in the Alicante calendar. During these days, Postiguet Beach transforms into the stage for an exciting reenactment of the 1599 battle between Berber pirates and the Christian side. The battle includes the participation of hundreds of actors in the Moorish and Christian camps, along with spectacular feluccas simulating the arrival of the Crescent side, accompanied by a pyrotechnic show, horse riders, and narrators, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees. The celebration also coincides with the Festival of the Virgen de Remedios, adding special value to the festivity.
Date: Variable. Early August.
Festivals in Honor of San Roque
The Traditional San Roque Festivities take place in the second week of August in one of Alicante’s most historic neighborhoods, situated on the slopes of Monte Benacantil, under the watchful gaze of Santa Barbara Castle. The festivities kick off with a lively parade through the neighborhood, featuring traditional dances in Plaza del Puente. The event leads to the much-anticipated proclamation, marking the official start of the celebrations, which date back to 1559. Residents enjoy numerous activities, including a paella competition on Calle Balseta, parades with music bands, and “La Banya,” a fun water tradition in Plaza del Puente. The festival concludes with a mass and procession in honor of the saint, followed by a communal dinner and a final evening of dancing in Plaza del Puente.
Date: Variable. The second week of August
Raval Roig Festivals
On the opposite side of the Benacantil is located the Raval Roig, formerly known for being a picturesque fishing neighborhood, is celebrated every year in September the feast of its patron saint, the Virgen del Socorro, who also gives its name to a beautiful chapel that presides over the place. This festivity is a much-awaited event by all residents and visitors, who prepare for a day full of tradition, joy, and community. The festive day begins early with the roar of gunpowder, marking the start of the day with the traditional ‘desperta’, a series of explosions and firecrackers that awaken the entire neighborhood and create an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. Throughout the day, the neighborhood comes alive with a variety of events and activities designed for all ages and tastes.
Festivals in Honor of San Nicolas de Bari
On December 6th, Alicante celebrates its patron saint, San Nicolas. The day includes a mass at the Co-Cathedral of San Nicolas, followed by a solemn procession culminating in the City’s Vow to its patron. The celebrations close with a spectacular Moors and Christians Parade through the city center, ending at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
Date: December 6th
