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.
Top Free Things to Do in Costa Blanca: Enjoy the Region Without Spending Much
Costa Blanca is known for its beauty, great weather, and friendly atmosphere — and the good news is that many of its best experiences are completely free. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or simply love exploring, there are endless activities that don’t cost a cent.
Here are the top free things to do in Costa Blanca.
1. Enjoy the Blue Flag Beaches
Costa Blanca has some of Europe’s cleanest and safest beaches — and access is completely free. Popular options include:
-
Levante (Benidorm)
-
Playa del Albir
-
La Fossa (Calpe)
-
San Juan (Alicante)
Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a walk along the water, beaches are perfect for every season.
2. Explore Old Towns Full of Charm
Many Costa Blanca towns have beautiful historic centres you can explore for free:
-
Altea Old Town — picturesque white streets
-
Alicante Old Town (El Barrio) — colourful and lively
-
Villajoyosa — famous rainbow-painted houses
-
Jávea Old Town — traditional Spanish atmosphere
Perfect for photography, evening strolls, and sightseeing.
3. Visit Scenic Viewpoints
Costa Blanca offers incredible viewpoints with Mediterranean panoramas:
-
Benidorm Cross
-
Mirador del Mediterráneo
-
Albir Lighthouse
-
Calpe’s port
-
Cabo de San Antonio
Sunrise and sunset bring especially beautiful lighting.
4. Walk Through Nature Parks
Nature lovers will enjoy Costa Blanca’s free natural reserves:
-
Serra Gelada Natural Park
-
Montgó Natural Park
-
Peñón de Ifach Natural Park
-
El Hondo Nature Reserve
These parks offer birdwatching, scenic trails, and peaceful areas far from the towns.
5. Attend Local Festivals and Fiestas
Many cultural celebrations are free to attend, including:
-
Moors & Christians parades
-
San Juan bonfires
-
Easter processions
-
Summer fiestas with fireworks
These events bring music, colour, and authentic Spanish culture.
6. Explore Local Markets
Street markets are free to visit and offer great people-watching opportunities. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to browse the stalls and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
7. Watch Flamingos in Calpe
The Calpe salt lake is home to wild flamingos — and you can see them for free while walking around the area.
Why Costa Blanca Is Great for Budget Travel
✔ Plenty of free activities
✔ Beaches and nature everywhere
✔ Friendly atmosphere
✔ Beautiful views at no cost
✔ Great weather most of the year
Costa Blanca proves that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy an unforgettable holiday.
Costa Blanca for Families: Best Theme Parks, Zoos & Kids’ Attractions
Costa Blanca is one of Europe’s top family destinations thanks to its warm climate, safe beaches, and endless activities for kids. Whether your children love animals, water slides, adventure, or exploring nature, the region offers something for everyone.
Here are the best family activities in Costa Blanca to add to your holiday itinerary.
1. Terra Mítica — Theme Park Thrills in Benidorm
Terra Mítica is Costa Blanca’s biggest theme park, divided into themed worlds like Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Families can enjoy roller coasters, water rides, live shows, and attractions suitable for all ages.
Younger kids have their own dedicated areas with gentle rides and plenty of entertainment.
2. Aqualandia — One of Spain’s Largest Water Parks
Perfect for sunny days, Aqualandia in Benidorm is a paradise for water lovers. With slides, pools, lazy rivers, and splash zones, children (and adults!) will have a full day of fun.
It’s also one of the cleanest and safest water parks in Spain.
3. Mundomar — Animal Encounters and Shows
Mundomar is a beautiful zoo specialising in marine and exotic animals. Kids can see dolphins, sea lions, parrots, penguins, and more. Educational shows and interactive experiences make this a memorable visit.
It’s right next to Aqualandia, making it easy to plan a double-park day.
4. Rio Safari — Elche’s Animal Reserve
Rio Safari is perfect for families who love wildlife. The safari train and animal habitats give children the chance to see lions, zebras, lemurs, and exotic birds. The park also has playgrounds, pools, and picnic areas.
5. DinoPark Algar — Dinosaur Fun for Little Explorers
Located near the Algar waterfalls, DinoPark is a fun, outdoor attraction featuring life-sized dinosaur models, fossil exhibits, a cinema, and play areas. It’s ideal for younger kids and combines perfectly with a visit to the natural pools next door.
6. Beautiful Beaches With Child-Friendly Facilities
Costa Blanca is full of beaches with shallow waters, clean sand, playgrounds, and lifeguards. Some of the best family beaches include:
-
Levante Beach (Benidorm)
-
La Fossa (Calpe)
-
San Juan Beach (Alicante)
-
Playa del Albir (Albir)
Most beaches offer children’s play areas and safe swimming zones.
7. Easy Family Hiking Routes
If your family enjoys nature, check out:
-
Albir Lighthouse trail — smooth path, sea views
-
Calpe salt lake walk — flamingos nearby
-
El Hondo Natural Park — birds & nature
These are safe, easy, and enjoyable outdoor activities for all ages.
Why Families Love Costa Blanca
✔ Safe and clean beaches
✔ Sunny weather most of the year
✔ Great parks and attractions
✔ Plenty of restaurants with kids’ menus
✔ Easy transportation for families
With a private transfer, families can explore parks and attractions comfortably, without worrying about parking, buses, or long walks with tired children.