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The Christmas season in the Marina Alta and Marina Baixa regions is a feast for the senses. Between magnificent parades, elaborate nativity scenes and delicious Roscón de Reyes, traditions are celebrated that are both deeply rooted in history and unique to this region. Here, the warmth of Spanish customs meets the local identity of the Costa Blanca.
Nativity scene art with regional charm
The „Beléns“, detailed nativity scenes, are the centrepiece of Christmas decorations in Spain. But in Marina Alta and Marina Baixa, this ritual takes on a personal touch: here, the nativity scenes often reflect the local landscapes, with hills, olive trees and traditional houses. In towns such as Xàbia and Benissa, these works of art are displayed in public exhibitions, accompanied by Christmas markets that enhance the festive atmosphere.
The magic of the Three Kings
When the Three Kings arrive in towns on the evening of 5 January, children hold their breath. The Cabalgatas de Reyes – parades featuring magnificently decorated floats rolling through the streets – are the highlight of the Christmas season. In places like Dénia and Teulada-Moraira, the kings throw sweets into the crowd while music and lights illuminate the night. It is a spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the region and brings the promise of gifts for the little ones.
From Roscón to festive dances
The kitchen plays a special role at this time of year. The „Roscón de Reyes“, a ring-shaped cake, hides little surprises in its dough. Whoever finds the crown is crowned king or queen for the day. Traditional Christmas dishes such as turrón, the famous nougat from Alicante, are indispensable. But there are also cultural subtleties: in Parcent and Alcalalí, for example, regional dances are performed that are only shown during the Christmas season – a tradition that celebrates local identity.
Christmas with special touches
In addition to the typical festivals, Marina Alta and Marina Baixa also have unique customs. Some villages organise historical nativity plays, in which entire streets are transformed into biblical scenes. In other places, such as La Vall de Gallinera, Advent is heralded with torchlight processions and traditional songs.
In Marina Alta and Marina Baixa, old and new traditions merge during the Christmas season to create a multifaceted celebration. While Spanish customs such as the „Beléns“ and the magnificent parades of the Three Kings have their firm place, many residents bring their own rituals to the table. This makes Christmas here a colourful celebration of togetherness – down-to-earth, warm-hearted and always a little bit different.
