Holiday Season Guide: Winter Festivities and Markets in and Around Oliva
The holiday season in Spain is truly magical, and if you’re looking to escape the snow and soak up the festive spirit under blue skies, then Oliva and its surrounding towns in the Valencia and Alicante regions are the perfect places to be. Whether you’re exploring enchanting Christmas markets, admiring twinkling lights, or witnessing vibrant parades, the winter holidays here are a unique blend of Spanish tradition and Mediterranean warmth.
Here’s a complete guide to winter festivities and markets happening from December to January. Expect festive cheer, incredible food, and a chance to experience Spain’s famous parades, without the winter chill!
Christmas Markets: Valencia, Alicante, Denia, and Beyond
From mid-December through early January, the towns and cities around Oliva come alive with Christmas markets. These markets are packed with stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional sweets like turrón, and plenty of mulled wine to keep you warm as the sun sets.
Valencia: Known for its grand Christmas lights and bustling markets, Valencia is a must-visit for holiday shoppers. The market at Plaza del Ayuntamiento features a spectacular Christmas tree, while Plaza de la Reina transforms into a festive wonderland with stalls and a life-sized nativity scene.
Alicante: Alicante’s Christmas Market at Plaza de Gabriel Miró is known for its artisanal crafts, local foods, and ice skating rink. A beautiful nativity scene and Christmas lights line the streets, making the whole city sparkle during the festive season.
Denia: This coastal town offers a more laid-back vibe with its smaller Christmas market, ideal for finding unique local crafts and gifts. Denia’s market is a perfect stop for those who want a more intimate, relaxing shopping experience.
Christmas Lights and Displays
One of the most enchanting parts of the holiday season is the brilliant display of Christmas lights. The streets of Valencia and Alicante are transformed into a winter wonderland, glowing with lights, festive decor, and seasonal cheer. Even in smaller towns like Denia and Altea, you’ll find charming light displays that bring the Mediterranean coast to life during December.
Valencia: The city center lights up with extravagant displays along streets like Calle Colón and Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The lights, combined with Christmas markets and ice skating rinks, offer a magical atmosphere for holiday visitors.
Alicante: Alicante’s Christmas lights are paired with festive activities like ice skating, local markets, and parades. Walking through the city’s brightly lit streets with the sound of carolers in the background creates a true holiday experience.
New Year’s Celebrations
In Spain, New Year's Eve is all about family, friends, and fireworks. At midnight, the tradition of eating 12 grapes for good luck is followed religiously. Towns like Valencia and Alicante celebrate with fireworks, live music, and late-night celebrations in the squares.
Valencia: The countdown happens at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where locals and visitors gather to watch the clock strike midnight amidst a fireworks display. The festive energy of Valencia during New Year’s Eve is unmatched, with street parties and celebrations lasting well into the morning.
The Three Kings Parade (Reyes Magos)
On January 6th, Spain celebrates Three Kings Day (Reyes Magos), a beloved tradition that includes parades where the Three Wise Men throw sweets and small gifts to children. These parades are one of the highlights of the Spanish holiday season.
Oliva: Oliva’s Three Kings Parade is a charming and festive event that winds through the Old Town, bringing smiles to children and adults alike. The parade is a beautiful blend of color, music, and tradition, making it the perfect way to wrap up the holiday season.
Valencia: Valencia hosts one of the grandest parades in the region. The Three Kings arrive by boat and are greeted by a joyful crowd before they lead a procession through the city streets. It’s a heartwarming spectacle that visitors of all ages will love.
Plan Your Holiday Escape to Oliva Rentals
With so many festivals, markets, and parades to explore, there’s no better way to experience Spain’s holiday season than by visiting Oliva and its surrounding towns. From admiring the Christmas lights of Valencia to witnessing the Three Kings Parade in Oliva, the magic of the season awaits.
Oliva Rentals offers the perfect place to stay during your holiday adventure. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the warmth and joy of the Mediterranean holiday season!
