If you’re looking for winter sun that comes with a side of quirky traditions, Alicante is the answer. Average highs sit around 17°C, so you can stroll palm-lined boulevards and sandy beaches in a light jacket – but the real draw is the line-up of unique winter festivals and events.
This isn’t your standard Christmas-market city break. Alicante gives you a Guinness World Record-breaking nativity, a flour-and-egg battle that takes over a whole town, and a Carnival night so wild it shuts down the Rambla. Even better? Most of it is free or very low-cost, making it perfect if you’re travelling on a budget. Let’s dive right in.
Book your flights to Alicante.
The Monumental Nativity (7 December 2025 – 6 January 2026)
In the heart of Alicante’s old town, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento becomes home to the largest nativity figures in the world. The Belén Gigante features statues up to 17 metres tall – so big they’ve been recognised by Guinness World Records.
By day, you can wander through the square and admire the craftsmanship. By night, it’s even more magical, with the figures glowing under Christmas lights and music drifting from nearby cafés. If you’re searching for things to do in Alicante in winter, this is the must-see that makes the city stand out from everywhere else in Spain.
Els Enfarinats in Ibi (28 December 2025)
For pure chaos, take a short trip inland to the town of Ibi. Every year on 28 December, locals stage a mock coup called Els Enfarinats. Their weapons? Flour bombs, eggs, and firecrackers. Their “laws”? Ridiculous. Their “fines”? Collected for charity.
It’s over 200 years old, and it’s like nothing you’ll ever see again. Spectators are welcome, and it’s free to watch – just don’t stand too close unless you’re ready to get dusted in flour. If you want a winter festival story that’ll make your friends jealous, this is it.
Read more:
Porrate de San Antón (mid-January 2026)
Back in Alicante city, January is all about San Antón. This centuries-old fiesta brings market stalls, music, and food to the streets. The highlight is the blessing of animals at the bullring, where locals line up with everything from dogs and cats to parrots and ponies. It’s quirky, heart-warming, and very much a local tradition.
For visitors, it’s a brilliant way to see Alicante’s community spirit up close – and enjoy the festive atmosphere without spending a cent.
Carnival & Sábado Ramblero (14 February 2026)
When February rolls around, Alicante really lets loose. Carnival takes over the city for nearly two weeks of parades, costumes, fireworks, and live music.
The highlight is Sábado Ramblero on 14 February 2026, when the Rambla Méndez Núñez transforms into one huge street party. Locals in full costume dance until dawn to DJs and live bands, and the atmosphere is electric.
Carnival closes with the Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine) – a mock funeral where a giant sardine is paraded through the streets before being set alight. It’s Alicante’s cheeky, tongue-in-cheek way of saying goodbye to winter.
Day trips worth the bus fare
- Alcoy (5 January 2026): Experience Spain’s oldest Three Kings Parade, dating back to 1866. Expect torchlit processions and acrobatic “pajes” climbing ladders to deliver gifts straight to balconies.
- Xixona (early December): Known as the world capital of turrón (nougat), Xixona hosts a festive fair full of stalls, tastings, and demonstrations. A delicious detour just 30 minutes from Alicante.
- Tabarca Island: Even in winter, this tiny island offers peaceful walks, fresh seafood, and sea views. Ferries are cheaper off-season, making it one of the most affordable day trips from Alicante.
Visit Alicante on a budget
- Most events are free: Carnival parades, the nativity, Els Enfarinats, and San Antón cost nothing to watch.
- Travel is cheap: Buses to Alcoy or Ibi are usually under €15 each way. The local tram connects Alicante to beaches like San Juan for just a few euros.
- Eat like a local: Grab €2-3 tapas at Mercado Central, or join tardeo (Saturday afternoon tapas-to-music street parties) instead of splashing out on clubs.
- Stay central: Budget hotels and hostels near Mercado Central or Rambla put you right in the action.
Why Alicante this winter?
Other cities have Christmas markets. Alicante has a world-record nativity. Other towns mark the holidays with concerts; Ibi pelts each other with flour bombs. And while Rio or Venice might be famous for Carnival, Alicante’s version is authentic, affordable, and all-out fun.
This winter, skip the drizzle. Swap it for parades, palm trees, and a Mediterranean city that knows how to party – all without blowing your budget.
Fly to Alicante from London Southend Airport this winter and experience a festive season like nowhere else in Europe.
Inspired to book your break?
#FlyLondonSouthend