New Year holidays in Alicante: where to go for the holidays

Alicante is a popular city in Spain, where traditions and modern entertainment are perfectly combined during the New Year holidays. It is a great place to celebrate New Year's Eve and Christmas with the locals. Spanish customs, the festive period and interesting events make Alicante an attractive destination for holidays during the New Year period.

Traditional Events and Events

In Alicante, the New Year and Christmas holidays begin in December. Fairs are organized in the squares of the city, where residents and tourists can buy Christmas gifts, decorations and Spanish cuisine.

One of the main traditions in Alicante is to celebrate the New Year with twelve grapes. At midnight, to the chime of the clock, residents and guests eat one grape with each blow, making wishes. This unusual and interesting event is celebrated in Alicante in the central square in front of the town hall.

The culmination of the New Year's period is the parade of the Magi, which takes place on January 5. This day is especially important for children because, according to Spanish traditions, it is on the night of January 6 that they receive gifts. The parade begins with a colorful procession through the streets, accompanied by music and costumed performances.

Christmas, according to the Catholic calendar, is celebrated on December 25. Be sure to visit churches where Christmas masses are held. The traditions of this period create an atmosphere of unity and return to the origins of Spanish history.

Sights to visit

During the New Year period, Alicante attracts tourists with unique attractions that perfectly complement the atmosphere of the holiday. 

• The main point to visit is the Santa Barbara Fortress. The top offers panoramic views of the city and the coast, which is especially impressive in the festive illumination.
• In the central squares of the city, especially in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Christmas decorations and light installations are installed. Here you can also see nativity scenes - traditional scenes of the birth of Christ, which the Spaniards consider an important part of the festive décor.
• The Mercat Central market is the center of New Year's activity. Here they not only buy local delicacies for the festive table, but also get acquainted with the customs of the city.
• The Esplanada de España, an alley in Alicante, also deserves attention. In the evening, it is decorated with garlands, which makes walks especially atmospheric.
• Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Belenes Museum, where Christmas displays from around the world are on display.

Where to eat and drink

On New Year's Eve, Alicante offers a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can taste both Spanish and dishes from different cuisines of the world.

• For a traditional lunch or dinner, the restaurant La Taberna del Gourmet serves seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. On New Year's Eve, establishments often offer dinners with a fixed menu, including red wine and champagne to meet midnight.
• Café Valor is a great place to taste Christmas sweets, which are an important part of the Spanish holidays. It is also worth trying hot chocolate with churros - a familiar delicacy for the inhabitants of Spain in the cold season.
• If you prefer a more informal atmosphere, head to the Mercado Lonja del Pescado, where local bars offer tapas and wine. This is a great opportunity to feel the festive spirit surrounded by the inhabitants of the city.
• For those who want to celebrate the New Year in a bar or club, establishments in the El Barrio area are suitable. Here, many clubs are open until the morning and offer special programs with live music and themed parties typical of the New Year holidays.

Fun activities for the whole family

In Alicante, there are many family-friendly activities during the New Year period. On the central square of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, an ice rink is filled - an unusual entertainment for a city with a mild climate.

Of particular interest to children is the Ciudad de la Navidad amusement park, which opens during the holiday season. There are fairs, attractions, and master classes where children can create Christmas crafts.

Another popular place for family gatherings is El Palmoral Park, where themed events are held at this time of year with the participation of animators and musical groups. In the evening, the park is decorated with garlands, which adds a special mood.

For history lovers, there are excursions to the old districts of Alicante, including the Santa Cruz district. Here you can see how the inhabitants of the city decorate their houses in accordance with Spanish customs and celebrate the New Year holidays.

On January 6, as part of the Parade of the Magi, a procession takes place through the streets of Alicante, which ends with a concert and fireworks.

Tips for tourists

Book accommodation in advance, especially if you plan to visit the city between December 24 and January 6. At this time, the demand for hotels and apartments increases significantly.

Pay attention to the opening hours of shops and restaurants. On Christmas Day, December 25, and on Magi's Day, January 6, most establishments are closed, so plan your shopping and dinners in advance. On New Year's Eve, tables in restaurants should be reserved in advance.

Be aware of local traditions: it is customary to arrive on time for many events, especially when it comes to cultural events. Also, be prepared for a large number of people in the central squares on the night of January 1, where the Spaniards celebrate the New Year.

It is worth remembering the mild climate of Alicante. Despite the winter period, the temperature is usually kept at 12-16 ° C. But for evening walks at Christmas markets or festive events, bring warm clothes.