ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
While the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread wafts through snow-covered Christmas markets in Germany, festive Christmas carols echo through the streets in England, and Lucia crowns light up the darkness in Norway, Christmas in Marina Alta and Marina Baja on the Costa Blanca unfolds with a distinctive character. Here, in a region as culturally diverse as a patchwork quilt, traditions merge to create a unique celebration of community.
Diversity as a Christmas melody
The Marina Alta and Baja are home to a fascinating mix of Spanish, British, Dutch, German and Scandinavian residents. But despite – or perhaps because of – this cultural diversity, Christmas here remains a celebration built on tradition. Spanish customs are particularly prominent: the elaborate nativity scenes, known as belénes, are a central part of the festive decorations in every town. Whether staged on a grand scale in town halls or lovingly displayed in private gardens, they tell stories that connect generations.
But the cultural diversity of the new arrivals also blends in with these traditional scenes. British Christmas crackers adorn the table alongside Spanish polvorones, and German Christmas carols find their place in Spanish street concerts. This mixture gives the festival here a special dynamic that sets it apart from the purely traditional contemplation in Germany or the opulent festive culture in England.
The rhythm of the festive season
While Advent is celebrated with festive wreaths and candles in Germany, Switzerland and Austria, preparations for Christmas play less of a ritualistic role in Spain. The focus is on Nochebuena, Christmas Eve, which is often celebrated with large family dinners – not small snacks, but lavishly laid tables with seafood, meat and the indispensable turrón.
A cosy evening in front of the fireplace, as Norwegians appreciate it, is often replaced in Marina Baja by a night-time stroll along illuminated streets – because even in December, the climate remains mild.
In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas and his gift-bearers dominate the scene at the beginning of December. In Marina Alta, on the other hand, the big highlight is the Día de los Reyes Magos on 6 January. While children in England eagerly await Father Christmas and in Germany the Christ Child, here the three wise men from the East take on the task of fulfilling wishes.
Tradition that endures
Despite the international influences evident in the streets and at the Christmas table, the festivities in Marina Alta and Baja remain deeply rooted in Spanish culture. The Mercadillos Navideños, or Christmas markets, are an integral part of the pre-Christmas period. However, in contrast to the glitzy, often commercial markets in Germany or Switzerland, here they are often more modest, with a focus on local craftsmanship and traditions.
Another special feature: The streets are brought to life with atmospheric nativity scenes and lively belénes. In places like Benidorm and Dénia, this is not just a show – entire communities work together to keep this tradition alive. Unlike in Norway, where the dark season is often characterised by candlelight and quiet moments, the region focuses on socialising, whether at open festivals or evening concerts.
A look at upcoming topics
Christmas in Marina Alta and Baja is not just a celebration, but an experience that celebrates the cultural diversity and traditional heritage of the region. We delve deeper into this in the following articles:
• Traditions and rituals
• The best Christmas markets
and nativity scene routes
• Culinary specialities
the festive season
• Residents celebrate Christmas
The Marina Alta and Baja show how Christmas is celebrated in a multicultural community – not as a compromise, but as an enrichment. A celebration that honours the spirit of diversity as well as the magic of traditions.