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CALENDAR 2026
Festivals & Celebrations
Benidorm
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Discover the vibrant culture of Costa Blanca through traditional and modern festivals
Your digital guide for Benidorm 2026
For Holidaymakers and Tourists
THE CITY BENIDORM GUIDE presents the complete list of holidays and festivals for 2026. Get a full overview of all important dates and plan your perfect holiday around the year's most spectacular events.
From traditional religious processions to modern music festivals – discover when Benidorm is at its most vibrant and experience authentic Spanish culture up close.
For Local Business Owners
Optimise your marketing strategies, offers, and events specifically for periods of high visitor numbers. With this comprehensive calendar, you can perfectly plan promotions and benefit from peak tourist flows.
The platform www.thecitybenidorm.com supports the common goal: More planning, wider reach, more visitors – and a successful 2026 for everyone in Benidorm.
The Magical Start to the Year
5th January – Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos
The Three Kings' Parade marks the festive highlight of the Christmas season in Benidorm. A colourful, spectacular procession with the Three Wise Men winds its way through the illuminated streets of the city, accompanied by elaborately decorated floats, captivating live music, and thousands of glowing lanterns that light up the night.
The Parade Begins
Children and families gather along the route to catch sweets generously thrown by the Kings. The atmosphere is magical – sparkling costumes and oriental music create unforgettable moments.
Spectacular Grand Finale
The procession traditionally concludes with an impressive fireworks display over the Mediterranean coast. The contrast between exploding colours in the sky and the dark sea creates an unparalleled backdrop.
Practical Information for the Three Kings' Parade
Timing
Starts in the early evening, around 6:30 PM. Plan enough time to find a good spot.
Best Locations
Along Avenida del Mediterráneo and in the picturesque Old Town. Arrive at least an hour early for optimal viewing.
What to Bring
Warm clothing recommended despite the mild winter climate. Don't forget your camera for the spectacular moments!
Getting There
Use public transport – parking spaces are scarce. The city is very well connected during the event.

Insider Tip: The best photo opportunities are found at Plaza de la Hispanidad, where the illuminated floats pose against a historical backdrop, creating a magical atmosphere.
Carnival in Benidorm
Colour, Music & Pure Joy of Life
2nd February – Carnival Saturday
The main day of Carnival brings the entire city to life. Two large parades set the rhythm of the day.
In the morning, a colourful children's parade with imaginative costumes takes place, attracting families from across the region. In the evening, the spectacular main parade follows with elaborate costumes, spirited Samba groups, and impressive, artfully designed floats that wind their way through the main streets.
Music & Dance until Midnight
Live bands and DJ sets transform the streets into a giant dance floor. Samba rhythms, modern beats, and traditional Spanish music merge into an unforgettable sound experience.
Street Parties & Culinary Delights
After the parades, locals and tourists celebrate together until the early hours of the morning. Bars and restaurants remain open late, offering special Carnival menus.
Entierro de la Sardina
The Burial of the Sardine – 3rd February
On 3rd February, one of Spain's most bizarre yet poetic traditions takes place: the symbolic burial of the sardine. This ancient ceremony marks the official end of Carnival and the transition into Lent, a ritual farewell to exuberance.
A large cardboard or wooden fish is carried through the streets in a humorous procession, accompanied by 'mourners' in black robes and exaggerated, theatrical gestures of grief. The blend of humour and tradition creates a unique atmosphere, somewhere between theatre and religious ritual, which makes spectators both laugh and reflect.
The procession traditionally ends on the sun-drenched beach of Benidorm, where the sardine is burned amidst great applause, laughter, and cheers – a powerful symbol for letting go of exuberance and beginning a time of contemplation and introspection.
„The Burial of the Sardine combines humour with centuries-old tradition – a unique cultural experience that visitors should not miss."
Religious Traditions in Spring
1
7th March
Mare de Déu del Sofratge – The anniversary of Benidorm's patron saint is honoured with solemn church services and impressive processions. The adorned statue is carried through the narrow streets of the old town.
2
15th–19th March
Las Fallas – Elaborate satirical papier-mâché figures are erected in public squares before being burnt in enormous bonfires on the final night. Daily fireworks at 2 PM shake the city.
3
End of March
Semana Santa – Holy Week is characterised by deeply moving religious processions. Brotherhoods in historical robes carry saintly figures weighing tons through the streets.
Elvis Lives in Benidorm
24–26 April: The Legendary Elvis Festival
The legendary Benidorm Elvis Festival transforms the city for three unforgettable days into a mecca for fans of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. What began in the 1990s as a small, modest tribute is now one of the largest and most spectacular Elvis tribute events outside the USA.
International Elvis impersonators – some astonishingly authentic and strikingly similar to the original – perform in hotels, bars, and on public stages along the sunny beach promenade. The quality of the performances varies from humorous amateur acts to professional shows with impressive stage presence.
Tribute Shows
Main stage on the beach with daily concerts from 6 pm to 11 pm. Free entry for all main events, which attract huge crowds.
Pool Parties
Special events in large hotels with an authentic 1950s atmosphere, vintage cocktails, and rock 'n' roll until dawn.
Costume Competition
The best Elvis look is awarded. Participants from all over Europe bring their most spectacular jumpsuits and give it their all.
Festa de la Creu – The Festival of the Holy Cross
Early May
Cross Decorations
Neighbourhoods compete for the most beautiful cross decoration. With fresh flowers, colourful cloths, and elaborate arrangements, true works of art are created.
Solemn Processions
Traditional parades move through the decorated streets of the Old Town, accompanied by Valencian music and multi-part songs.
Community Festivals
The squares transform into lively festive venues with local gastronomy, traditional music, and folk dances until late into the night.
Hogueras de San Juan
The Magical Summer Solstice – 22–24 June
Hogueras de San Juan marks one of the most magical and impressive festivals of the entire year. Benidorm celebrates the shortest night and the official start of summer with a unique blend of ancient pagan traditions and modern Mediterranean beach life, delighting young and old.
Monumental Artworks
For weeks, local artists work on enormous wooden and papier-mâché sculptures. These impressive installations are ceremonially burned at midnight on 24 June.
Ritual of Cleansing
Traditionally, brave individuals jump over flames or into the sea at midnight – both are said to bring good luck and symbolically cleanse from all negativity.
Nights of Fireworks
Every evening, spectacular fireworks illuminate the sky over the dark Mediterranean Sea, creating unforgettable visual moments.
Summer Festivals by the Sea
6.–7. July – San Fermín in Benidorm
A smaller, more relaxed version of the famous festival from Pamplona takes place on the beaches of Benidorm. No real bulls, but plenty of tradition and atmosphere: participants dress in the classic white garments with red neckerchiefs.
Live music, ice-cold sangria, and a boisterous mood characterise these two summer days on the beach. It's a celebration for anyone wishing to experience the festive energy of San Fermín without the dangerous hustle and bustle of the bull run. Families and young people celebrate together in a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
16.–21. July – Virgen del Carmen
As the patron saint of fishermen and seafarers, the Virgen del Carmen is celebrated with special reverence along the entire Spanish coast. In Benidorm, the emotional highlight is a moving maritime procession.
The adorned statue of the Virgin is carried out to sea on a festively decorated boat, accompanied by a flotilla of smaller fishing boats. Fishermen and their families cast flowers into the water as a tribute to deceased seafarers. The festival combines deep religiosity with maritime identity.
San Jaime – The City's Patron Saint Festival
25th July
Religious Ceremonies
Solemn church services in the historic San Jaime and Nuestra Señora de la Soledad church form the spiritual core of the festival. The entire community gathers to honour its patron saint.
Parades & Folk Festivals
After the religious ceremonies, the streets transform into lively festival avenues. Traditional Valencian dances, local marching bands, and culinary specialities are presented.
Evening Concerts
The day of San Jaime is deeply rooted in Benidorm's identity. Many shops close for the celebrations, and families come together. In the evenings, there are free concerts in the main square.
Festes Majors Patronals
The absolute highlight of the year – 6–11 November
The Festes Majors Patronals are the most important and spectacular festival week of the entire year in Benidorm. These six intense days are an explosive blend of centuries-old tradition, cultural richness, and modern entertainment, transforming the entire city into a collective state of euphoria filled with joie de vivre.
Opening Ceremony
The festival week begins with an an official ceremony in the main square, Plaza de la Hispanidad, followed by the first grand firework display over the illuminated coast.
Daily Parades
Magnificent parades with historical costumes, folkloric dance groups, and elaborately decorated floats process through various districts of the city.
Concerts & Performances
Local and national artists perform on several stages. From traditional Valencian music to modern pop acts.
Culinary Celebrations
Street stalls offer regional specialities like paella and churros. Restaurants present special festival menus with traditional dishes.
The festival week concludes with the year's most spectacular pyrotechnic firework display, transforming the night sky over Benidorm into an overwhelming, unforgettable sea of colours.
Festa de la Carxofa
The Authentic Artichoke Festival – Mid-November
Immediately following the Festes Majors is another unique culinary festival: the Festa de la Carxofa in the historic, picturesque Old Town quarter. This popular festival uniquely combines gastronomic traditions with vibrant street culture and local humour.
The absolute highlight is the "Cremà" – the ritual burning of a large potato figure, similar to the famous Las Fallas in Valencia. This humorous tradition symbolises the farewell to the old and the welcoming of new culinary delights and pleasures.
Music, traditional dances, and of course, artichokes in every conceivable variation characterise the lively, convivial atmosphere. Local restaurants compete with creative artichoke menus, and street stalls offer the delicacy freshly grilled.

Culinary Tip: Be sure to try "Alcachofas a la parrilla" (grilled artichokes with olive oil and garlic) or "Arroz con alcachofas" (creamy artichoke rice).
International Party Culture
1st November – International Halloween
Large costume party with international flair and modern interpretation. Hotels and clubs along the promenade organise Halloween-inspired events with professional DJ sets, live music, and spectacular light shows.
The British and Northern European expat community brought this American tradition to Benidorm, and it is now an integral part of the diverse event calendar. Costume competitions with generous prizes attract hundreds of creative participants.
2nd November – International Night
A nightlife event with a special focus on the international community, which gives Benidorm its unique cosmopolitan atmosphere. British, German, Dutch, and Scandinavian influences characterise the music and ambiance of this popular party night.
Various clubs offer themed evenings with music from different countries. It is a lively celebration of the cultural diversity that makes Benidorm more than just a Spanish coastal resort – a cosmopolitan metropolis on the Mediterranean.
Christmas Magic on the Mediterranean
December 2026
6 December –
Spanish Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución)
8 December –
Immaculate Conception (Inmaculada Concepción)
Christmas Markets
From late November, the historic squares of the old town are transformed into atmospheric Christmas markets with local handicrafts, handmade nativity scenes, sweets, and traditional products. The scent of roasted chestnuts, churros, and mulled wine fills the mild Mediterranean air.
Festive Lighting
Thousands of LED lights are installed throughout the city, transforming Benidorm into a sparkling winter wonderland. The main streets glow with a warm golden radiance, and the promenade becomes a luminous boulevard with illuminated palm trees – a surreal, magical sight.
New Year's Eve on the Beach
The New Year is welcomed with a spectacular firework display directly on the beach. Thousands of people gather at Playa de Levante to collectively eat the traditional twelve grapes at midnight – one for each chime of the clock and each month of the coming year.
The combination of a mild winter climate (average 15-18°C), festive decorations, and Mediterranean zest for life makes Benidorm an exceptionally unique travel destination for the Christmas and New Year period. While Northern Europe freezes, visitors here celebrate under palm trees by the sea.
Annual Overview: Festival Calendar 2026
The festival calendar clearly shows: Benidorm celebrates throughout the year, with particularly intense periods in spring (March–May), high summer (June–July), and autumn (November). The winter months offer a more relaxed, yet festive atmosphere with atmospheric Christmas traditions and a mild climate.
Spring
March–May: Ideal for religious festivals and milder temperatures. Semana Santa and Las Fallas attract culturally interested visitors.
Summer
June–July: Perfect for beach parties and the summer solstice. Hogueras de San Juan is the absolute highlight for fire and fireworks lovers.
Autumn
November: Peak festival season with Festes Majors and several culinary events. Mild and less crowded than summer.
Winter
December–January: Christmas markets and the Three Kings' Festival offer relaxed holidays with a mild climate. Perfect for quieter city visits.
Visitor Statistics & Best Travel Times
85%
Hotel Occupancy
Average occupancy during the Festes Majors in November
68%
International Guests
Proportion of foreign visitors at major events such as Hogueras and Carnival
42%
Repeat Visitors
Tourists who return to Benidorm specifically for the festivals
Plan Your Visit to Benidorm
Accommodation & Booking
  • During major festivals such as Festes Majors (November), Hogueras (June), and Carnival (February), hotels are often fully booked months in advance
  • Early reservations at least 3-4 months beforehand are strongly recommended
  • Consider alternative accommodation in neighbouring towns like Altea or Villajoyosa
  • Many hotels offer special festival packages with included tickets and transfers

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Transport & Mobility
  • Public transport is heavily utilised but reliable during festivals
  • Parking a car is difficult – public car parks are full days beforehand
  • Many roads are closed during parades – it's best to travel on foot
  • The tram connection to Alicante also works well during events
Local Tips & Etiquette
  • Visit the tourist information centre for current programme details and changes

Turismo de Benidorm VisitBenidorm

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Portal Turístico de Benidorm, Información turística sobre la ciudad: playas, ocio, actividades, alojamientos, turismo activo, turismo de golf, turismo LGTB e información sobre todo lo que puedes encontrar en Benidorm. Web de la Fundación Turismo de Benidorm

  • Respect religious traditions during processions – wear appropriate clothing, no loud noises
  • Many main festivals are free and open to the public
  • Restaurants are often overcrowded during festivals – book in advance or arrive early

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  • or Fun and Joy: The feeling of finding something new makes you happy…

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Important Notice: Dates may change at short notice. Please check current information on www.thecitybenidorm.com or with the municipal tourist information before your visit.
Experience Benidorm – More than just Sun and Sand
Benidorm is far more than just its world-famous beaches and impressive high-rises. This vibrant city on the Costa Blanca lives its centuries-old traditions with an intensity and authenticity that consistently surprises, touches, and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
From deeply religious processions and spectacular fireworks displays to international music festivals and culinary celebrations – Benidorm offers cultural experiences throughout the year that create lasting memories and reveal the soul of this special city. Each festival tells a story about the identity of this unique place, where Mediterranean tradition meets modern cosmopolitanism.
“Anyone who only knows Benidorm as a beach resort has yet to discover the city's soul. The festivals open a window into the vibrant culture of the Costa Blanca – authentic, welcoming, and unforgettable.”
The combination of warm Spanish hospitality, culinary diversity, and a mild year-round climate makes every visit a special experience. Whether you wish to experience religious traditions, participate in lively street festivals, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere – Benidorm warmly welcomes you.
For further information, current event calendars, and local insider tips, please visit: www.thecitybenidorm.com
This guide was created by THE CITY BENIDORM GUIDE to support entrepreneurs, business owners, and visitors in planning a successful year in 2026. Please share this information within your networks and WhatsApp groups.