10 New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day customs on the Costa Blanca

10 New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day customs on the Costa Blanca

In Spain, New Year’s Eve (December 31) and New Year’s Day (January 1) are steeped in traditions that reflect the mix of superstition, celebration and family togetherness. On the Costa Blanca, a region of Spain known for its mix of traditions and celebrations, there are several special customs for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

HERE: 10 perfect GIFT ideas for this Christmas 

Here are the most common customs on the Costa Blanca and other parts of Spain:

31 December – NEW YEAR’S EVE on the Costa Blanca: Tradition and Celebration

The New Year’s Eve celebration on the Costa Blanca stands out for its vibrant energy and traditional touches. Here are some of the most popular customs:

1. The 12 lucky grapes: As in all of Spain, on the Costa Blanca it is essential to eat the 12 lucky grapes to the rhythm of the midnight chimes. The main squares, such as in Denia, Calpe, Benidorm or the Explanada de España in Alicante, are filled with people ready to welcome the new year in unison with the chimes, usually transmitted from the Puerta del Sol in Madrid.
2. Gala dinners and beach parties: Many hotels, restaurants and clubs in the area organize gala dinners with special menus. Fresh seafood, rice dishes and traditional sweets such as turrón, originally from the province of Alicante – Costa Blanca, are the stars. In towns such as Benidorm or Calpe, it is not unusual to find open-air parties or even small gatherings on the beach to welcome the new year.
3. Fireworks and nightlife: After the chimes, many towns organize fireworks shows. The beaches and promenades of cities such as Denia, Javea, Calpe, Benissa, Moraira, Benidorm and Javea become meeting points for those who want to continue the party. In addition, the pubs and clubs in the region remain open until the early hours of the morning.
4. Superstitions: Local traditions also include wearing red underwear to attract good fortune, love and happiness. According to superstition, underwear should be given as a gift for the effect to be even more powerful. Another is to put a gold ring in the glass of cava when toasting, which symbolizes prosperity and economic success for the coming year.
5. Wearing something new: It is considered important to wear a new item of clothing on New Year’s Eve. This tradition symbolizes the beginning of a new cycle and the opening to new opportunities.

HERE: 10 perfect GIFT ideas for this Christmas

1st of January – New Year’s Day: Relaxation and renewed energy

New Year’s Day is a quieter day, dedicated to family and the first activities of the year:

1. New Year’s bath: On the beaches of the Costa Blanca, such as those of Alicante, Denia, Javea or Altea, some brave people maintain the tradition of taking a dip in the sea on January 1st. This ritual symbolises purification and renewed energy for the year that is beginning.
2. Family meals: January 1st is usually a quiet day, dedicated to getting together with the family and enjoying a special meal, which can include typical dishes such as paella or arroz a banda or homemade stews. Desserts are accompanied by the last pieces of nougat or typical cakes.
3. Visits to markets: Some local markets, which are very popular in the region, remain open on the first day of the year, offering fresh produce and crafts.
4. Walks and family visits: Many families take advantage of the region’s mild climate to take walks along the beaches or nearby mountains. It is an ideal day to reconnect with loved ones and tranquility.
5. Preparations for the Three Wise Men: As Three Kings’ Day (January 6) is one of the most important holidays in Spain, many people spend this day getting ready for the arrival of the Three Wise Men, buying gifts or attending themed activities.

HERE: 10 perfect GIFT ideas for this Christmas

Costa Blanca: A perfect destination to welcome the New Year with good food and a relaxed but festive atmosphere.

The Costa Blanca combines the most well-known Spanish traditions with a Mediterranean touch, offering warm and joyful celebrations. Whether you prefer family gatherings or large celebrations by the sea, this corner of the Mediterranean has something special for you. In general, New Year’s Eve in Spain is a time of celebration and joy, while New Year’s Day is dedicated to family and relaxation. 🎉✨

Welcome the new year in style on the Costa Blanca and fill your resolutions with Mediterranean magic! 🎉

HERE: 10 perfect GIFT ideas for this Christmas