It is fair to say that when people think about the Costa Blanca, golden beaches, pretty villages and fantastic weather immediately come to mind. However, the Costa Blanca also knows how to throw a party, as the many Costa Blanca fiestas throughout the year testify.
From spectacular historical re-enactments to the most colourful street parties and traditional religious celebrations, they definitely don’t do anything by halves. In fact, many of these fiestas can run for several days and well into the early hours. However, alongside the party atmosphere, there is a more serious side. Each Costa Blanca fiesta offers a unique glimpse into the culture, history and community spirit of this beautiful region of Spain, which I feel privileged to call home.
Why Costa Blanca fiestas are so special
The Costa Blanca fiestas are steeped in history, with many celebrated for centuries in one form or another. They honour patron saints and commemorate important historical events that mean so much to the generations of Spaniards who have grown up here. It is no wonder, then, that entire communities become involved and go all out in their respective towns. Expect to see decorated streets, traditional food on offer, plenty of music, and the most elaborate costumes. I can only imagine how many months of preparation go into each one.
So, for those planning a holiday to the Costa Blanca, we highly recommend choosing dates that coincide with one of these marvellous spectacles and ‘breathing in’ all that the Costa Blanca has to offer. For those who have already made the Costa Blanca home, what better way to deepen your connection than to join in and soak up the atmosphere… even if it does mean being a little sleep-deprived!
Moors & Christians: Costa Blanca’s most spectacular fiesta
If you can attend only one event, be sure to make it Moors and Christians, arguably the most famous Costa Blanca Fiesta of them all. It is celebrated in many towns across the Alicante Province, including Villajoyosa, Alcoy, Elda, Calpe, Dénia and Jávea. While each event is a little different, they all essentially recreate the medieval battles between the Moors and Christians through dramatic parades and historical performances.
My personal favourite has to be Villajoyosa, though you need to arrive very early in the morning to fully appreciate it. It usually takes place during the last week of July and is in honour of the patron saint, Santa Marta. More specifically, it commemorates the Barbary pirates’ attempted attack on the town in 1538 and the legendary intervention of Santa Marta in its defence.
Desembarco at Villajoyosa
However, what makes this particular Costa Blanca fiesta truly special is the Desembarco (Landing), which takes place before dawn (now you know why I said you need to get there very early!). It is definitely worth it to see the dozens of Moorish boats approach the beach as cannon fire echoes across the bay before the dramatic battle is re-enacted on the sand. Alongside the Desembarco, visitors can also look forward to wonderful Moorish and Christian parades, marching bands, fireworks, religious processions, paella competitions and concerts.
Hogueras de San Juan in Alicante
Another significant Costa Blanca fiesta that definitely deserves a mention is the Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John), which took place recently, in June. For this one, you need to head to the city of Alicante, where the most spectacular of all the celebrations is held.
Hogueras de Alicante: Credit: Ayuntamiento de Alicante.
Its origins lie in ancient midsummer bonfires, when people burned old objects to welcome the summer solstice and symbolise the year’s purification. However, the modern festival centres on enormous artistic sculptures displayed throughout the city before they are set alight – yep, all that creative work goes up in smoke! As the City’s main festival, it is particularly important and considered a powerful expression of local identity. To this end, it goes all out, combining art, satire, traditional Valencian dress, music, fireworks, parades and late-night celebrations.
Costa Blanca fiestas throughout the year
These are just two of the larger Costa Blanca fiestas that residents and visitors alike can look forward to each year. However, there are also many other memorable events in smaller towns and villages. These include music and dance festivals, local food and wine festivals, medieval markets, summer fiestas with live entertainment, and traditional celebrations around Easter and Christmas time.
Medieval Moraira magic: Andalusian Market returns for the fiestas. Image: Teulada Moraira Turismo.
While the specific dates may vary from town to town, below is a helpful guide of just some of the events that take place each season:
Early Summer
Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John): June
Moors & Christians – Moraira: June
Fiestas de San Pedro – Benissa: June
Mid-Summer
Moors & Christians – Javea, Villajoyosa, Guardamar del Segura: July
Castell de L’Olla – Altea: August (world-famous pyrotechnic display)
Medieval Market – Moraira: August
Autumn
Moors & Christians – Altea: September
Grand Medieval Market – Alicante: October
Fiestas Mayores Patronales – Benidorm: November
Local cuisine and authentic experiences
Many of the smaller Costa Blanca fiestas feature traditional Alicante rice dishes, freshly grilled seafood, locally produced wines, sweet pastries, and regional delicacies. Beyond the lively atmosphere, they offer the perfect opportunity to sample the local cuisine and savour the authentic experience.
A word of advice to end with: Costa Blanca fiestas are extremely popular, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parades. Also, remember that summers here can be very hot, so carry water and don’t forget your comfortable shoes for walking around.
A full list of all the events taking place across the Costa Blanca can be found here.
