Benidorm is preparing for one of the biggest celebrations in its annual calendar. From 6 to 11 November 2026, the city will come alive with colourful parades, spectacular fireworks, live music, traditional ceremonies and activities for all ages.
Known locally as the Festes Majors Patronals, these celebrations honour Benidorm’s two patron saints: the Virgin of Sufragio (Virgen del Sufragio) and Saint James the Apostle (Sant Jaume).
For visitors, this is a great opportunity to experience a different side of Benidorm – beyond its beaches, hotels and nightlife.
What are the Festes Majors Patronals?
The Festes Majors Patronals are among Benidorm’s most important traditional celebrations. They bring together local residents, cultural associations, music bands and visitors for several days of festivities.
Religious ceremonies and historical traditions play an important role, but the programme also includes street entertainment, concerts, fireworks, children’s activities and spectacular parades.
The main celebrations take place between 7 and 11 November, with the festive atmosphere starting a day earlier.
November 6: Festive lights and fairground opening
The celebrations begin on Friday, 6 November, with the official switching on of the festive lights along Calle Martínez Alejos at 6 PM.
The traditional Porrat street market will also open on Avenida Emilio Ortuño, followed by the opening of the fairground near the bullring at 7 PM.
Families with children may particularly enjoy this evening, as it is also designated Children’s Day, with reduced prices for fairground attractions.
November 7: The official opening and a historic beach spectacle
Saturday marks the official beginning of the main festivities.
The morning features traditional ceremonies, church bells and a parade of music bands through central Benidorm.
However, one of the most interesting events for visitors takes place at 5 PM on Poniente Beach.
The historical discovery of the Virgin of Sufragio is recreated in a performance based on events dating back to March 1740. According to local tradition, the image of the Virgin was discovered aboard a drifting boat off the coast of Benidorm.
Following the performance, a solemn procession makes its way from Poniente Beach through the city centre towards the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana.
The evening continues with the official opening speech, fireworks, live music and the spectacular Correfocs, a traditional fire-running street performance.
November 8: Fireworks, concerts and traditional celebrations
Sunday is dedicated to the Virgin of Sufragio.
The day starts early with a traditional Despertà at 8 AM, followed by a popular chocolate breakfast.
At 2 PM, visitors can watch a spectacular Mascletà Piro-Digital at Avenida de Foietes.
Mascletàs are a distinctive part of Valencian celebrations, combining carefully choreographed explosions and powerful rhythms to create an impressive sound experience.
The afternoon includes children’s entertainment and a solemn procession, while the evening brings more live music.
One of the headline performances is by Spanish band Funambulista, scheduled for 11:30 PM at Plaza de SS. MM. los Reyes de España.
November 9: Saint James Day
Monday is dedicated to Saint James the Apostle, the other patron saint of Benidorm.
The programme includes traditional religious ceremonies, another Mascletà at 2 PM and a procession through the historic centre.
There will also be children’s theatre and several evening music performances.
Among the artists scheduled to perform are Leticia Sabater and Danny Romero.
November 10: The Great Humour Parade
Tuesday brings one of the more entertaining events of the celebrations: the Gran Desfile del Humor.
Starting at 7 PM, colourful and humorous parade entries will travel through Calle Venus, Calle Ruzafa and Avenida Martínez Alejos.
The event is organised by the local association of festival clubs and promises plenty of costumes, creativity and humour.
Earlier in the day, visitors can also enjoy a popular sardine event, children’s entertainment and another fireworks display.
The evening concludes with a nighttime Mascletà at 11 PM.
November 11: The Grand Float Parade and fireworks finale
The final day of the main festivities is marked by the spectacular Desfile de Carrozas.
The parade begins at 6 PM, with decorated floats, music bands, local associations and festival groups taking part.
The procession starts at Parque de Elche and continues through several central streets, finishing along Avenida de Alcoy.
A grand fireworks display will light up the Benidorm skyline afterwards, bringing the 2026 Festes Majors Patronals to a spectacular conclusion.
Where to watch the celebrations
Several locations across the city will host events during the festivities:
- Poniente Beach: Historical reenactment on 7 November.
- Avenida de Foietes: Main Mascletà fireworks displays.
- Plaza de SS. MM. los Reyes de España: Concerts and public celebrations.
- L’Hort de Colón: Live performances and entertainment.
- Parque de Elche: Starting point of the grand float parade.
- Old Town: Religious ceremonies and traditional processions.
Visitors should expect busy streets, temporary traffic restrictions and large crowds around the main event locations.
Is it worth visiting Benidorm during the November festivities?
Absolutely. November is often considered outside the main summer tourist season, but the Festes Majors Patronals demonstrate that Benidorm has plenty to offer beyond its famous beaches.
The celebrations provide an opportunity to discover local traditions, Valencian culture, Spanish music and the community spirit that makes this Mediterranean city more than just a holiday destination.
Most of the public festivities and concerts are free to attend, making this an attractive event for both tourists and residents.
If you are in Benidorm between 6 and 11 November 2026, don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the city’s most important annual celebrations.
Please note: Event times and locations may change. Check the official Benidorm City Council programme for the latest information.
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