Benidorm’s famous Fancy Dress Party means the streets will once again become a sea of wigs, sequins, and superheroes.
On Thursday, 13 November, just one day after the end of the Festes Majors Patronals, the party continues. Many now call Benidorm’s Fancy Dress Party the biggest costume event in Europe.
More than 30,000 people are expected to take part.
From pub idea to international event
The festival started 31 years ago thanks to local businessman Manolo Nieto, who decided to organise a small fancy-dress gathering with friends. What began as a simple pub event has grown into an international attraction. Benidorm draws visitors from Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, and even as far away as the United States and Japan.
Benidorm’s Councillor for Events, Jesús Carrobles, described it as “possibly the largest costume party in Europe” and praised the fun but peaceful atmosphere that has made it such a success. Despite the enormous crowds, police rarely deal with any trouble. As Carrobles put it, “People come to have a good time.”
Benidorm Fancy Dress Party: What to expect
The heart of the event is the float parade, which keeps getting bigger each year. This time, over 15 floats will roll through the streets, joined by dance troupes, drummers, and entertainers of every kind.
Local police will close Calle Gerona and Calle Lepanto from 11:00.
Benidorm’s nightlife association, Ociobal, is helping to coordinate even more venues this year, so the party does not stop once the parade ends. Bars, pubs, and clubs throughout the area will join in the fun with themed decorations and live music.
Beyond the parade
Although the main celebration happens on Thursday, 13 November, organisers have also planned smaller events on 14 and 15 November to keep the spirit alive all weekend. Expect plenty of live bands, DJ sets, and spontaneous dance-offs.
Nieto hopes to see the event continue to grow, comparing it to world-famous Spanish festivals like San Fermín in Pamplona and La Tomatina in Buñol. “It has become something very special,” he said. “A festival that keeps its heart but welcomes more people each year.”
