by taxialicante
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Local Traditions in Costa Blanca: Fiestas, Customs & Cultural Celebrations

Costa Blanca is not only a beautiful coastline — it’s also a region full of history, culture, and vibrant traditions. Throughout the year, towns across the coast celebrate unique events that bring communities together and attract visitors from all over the world.

Here are the most important Costa Blanca traditions and cultural celebrations you should experience.

1. Moors & Christians — A Spectacular Historical Parade

The Moors & Christians festival is one of Costa Blanca’s most iconic traditions. Cities like Alcoy, Villajoyosa, Altea, and Benidorm celebrate with colourful costumes, horses, loud music, and mock battles.

These processions recreate medieval battles between Christian and Moorish groups — a fascinating mix of history and celebration.

2. Las Fallas — Fire, Art & Creativity

Although originally from Valencia, many Costa Blanca towns also celebrate Fallas in March. Huge artistic sculptures are built, displayed, and then burned during the “cremà.”

It’s a dramatic, emotional event full of fireworks, parades, and music.

3. San Juan Bonfires — The Night of Fire

On June 23rd, beaches across Costa Blanca come alive with bonfires, music, food, and dancing. Locals jump over small fires for good luck and swim in the sea at midnight.

Alicante hosts the biggest celebration with parades, fireworks, and burning sculptures.

4. Semana Santa — Easter Week Processions

Easter week is deeply important in Spain. Towns like Alicante, Orihuela, and Torrevieja host impressively detailed religious processions featuring statues, flowers, music, and candles.

It’s a solemn yet beautiful tradition that attracts thousands of visitors.

5. Tomato Festivals & Food Celebrations

Costa Blanca also celebrates food with energy and fun:

  • Tomato festivals

  • Paella competitions

  • Wine harvest events

  • Seafood days in fishing towns

These events are lively, delicious, and full of local spirit.

6. Fishermen’s Traditions in Coastal Towns

Villajoyosa, Calpe, and Santa Pola still maintain strong fishing traditions. Their harbours come alive with auctions, seafood markets, and boat parades during special fiestas.

These celebrations honour the sea and the communities who work on it.

7. Small Local Fiestas — Music, Dancing & Community Spirit

Almost every town in Costa Blanca has its own “fiestas patronales” — local festivals with:

  • Live music

  • Parades

  • Fireworks

  • Street parties

  • Traditional foods

These small-town celebrations offer a truly authentic Mediterranean experience.

Why Costa Blanca Traditions Are Worth Experiencing

✔ Rich cultural heritage
✔ Vibrant celebrations
✔ Delicious food
✔ Music, colour, and joy
✔ Perfect for families and travellers

Attending local traditions is one of the best ways to discover the real Costa Blanca — beyond beaches and tourism.