Alicante: City of Parades
Alicante, on the coast of Spain, is a city which offers tourists year round pleasures. Beaches and outdoor cafes are popular in the summer months and festivals of all sorts are held throughout the year. Guests to the city will find a unique blend of Spanish and African cultures; a trip to the waterfront leaves one with the feeling of Africa when seeing the women selling goods in traditional African dress.
Festivals are held year round in this charming Spanish coastal city. In early December the Moor and Christian Festival celebrates the two religious traditions with parades and performing arts. In the early morning hours of the festival day dianas wake the sleeping townsfolk who then head to the center of town to watch the Moors and Christians parade into the city. Throughout the day, performances are held depicting important events and battles in the history of the two traditions.
The Three King Procession is held every January and is a favorite of children. The day of the festival is the day they receive their holiday gifts. On the festival day, the Three Kings parade through the city tossing candy to everyone lining the streets. Events honoring the Three Kings are scheduled during the day and feasts are planned for the evening.
Another favorite of children is the Festititeres, the Festival of Puppets. This festival, held every November and December, honors puppeteers from around the world. Both indoor and outdoor performances are scheduled; all outdoor performances are free.
Many more festival are scheduled during the year in this City of Parades. Visitors should check with the city’s tourism site to see what is happening during their planned visit. But remember –festivals are only a part of what this coastal Spanish town has to offer. Visitors will find much to do anytime of the year.
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