Christmas is edging ever closer in Alicante, and the city is already getting itself into a merry mood.
The Council has now confirmed the main dates for the big seasonal attractions, and the preparations have been quietly taking shape over the last few weeks. Festive lights have been fitted across the streets and nativity scenes are appearing in squares, courtyards, and public buildings. It is beginning to feel a little bit like Christmas, even if the calendar insists it is still November.
Twinkling before Black Friday
The big moment for many residents is the lighting ceremony, and Alicante will switch on its Christmas display on Friday, 21 November at 19.00. The location is the usual one, Avenida de la Constitucion, where the huge Christmas tree will take pride of place. The switch on comes a full week before Black Friday this year. This is thanks to an agreement between the Council and local businesses who are keen to bring a little early sparkle to the shopping season.
Alicante will follow this with another key moment on Sunday, 23 November, also at 19.00. The giant nativity scene in the Town Hall Square will be unveiled, a set of six large figures including Mary, Joseph, the Baby Jesus, and the Three Wise Men.
Guinness World Record title
This giant Nativity Scene has held its Guinness World Record title since 2019. Last year, the addition of the Three Wise Men enhanced the display. Guinness World Records officially recognises it as the “Largest Nativity Scene Figurines.”
The figures are monumental: Baby Jesus in the manger stands at 3.32 metres tall, 3.31 metres wide, and 4.08 metres deep. Joseph reaches an incredible height of 18.05 metres, with a width of 4.70 metres and a depth of 3.07 metres. Mary measures 10.59 metres high, 3.49 metres wide, and 4.28 metres deep. For perspective, a person standing 1.70 metres tall would only reach Joseph’s ankle.
Christmas in Alicante: Traffic rules
The Town Hall Square will also have new rules for traffic during the festive period. From 23 November, the square will be closed to vehicles as part of the first stage of its pedestrianisation plan. The restriction will remain in place until 6 January. After that date, only public transport will be permitted.
Alicante is preparing for another cheerful festive season. It may only be November, but the city is more than ready to welcome a bit of Christmas magic.
