Alicante is a prestigious city in Spain, known for its long summers and mild winters. This city is famous for its love of life, music, fireworks, festivals and gourmet dining. Alicante takes pride in its traditions and cultural values which show through in their festivals. These festivals take place throughout the year, but the summer festivals are more popular with tourists due to the number of flights to Alicante during this season.

Hogueras de San Juan, also known as 'St John's Bonfire', is celebrated to mark the beginning of summer. The queen of this festival, known as the 'Beauty of Fire' is usually chosen in May. This year, festival began on the 20th of June and lasted up to the 24th of June with tent preparations, street decorations, festive dinners, floral offerings to the patron saint (Virgen del Remedio), an International folk-dance parade and a fireworks display. The statues, made from cardboard and wood, were set on fire on the midnight of the last day festival accompanied by eating, drinking and all night dancing.

The Feast of San Pedro takes place on the 29th of June till the first week of July. During this festival, there are lots of brilliant fireworks, colourful processions and makeshift fiesta houses known as 'Barracas' which provide live music and outdoor fun for the Alicantes and visitors.

The Moors and Christian Festival is also a major celebration in Alicante. This commemorates the recapturing of Spain from the Arabs in the 12th century. This takes place from the 1st-4th of July in Rebolledo, 8th-11th of July in Sans Bla, 12th-16th of August in Altozano and 28th-30th of August in Jose Antonio. The festival starts with the dianas waking people up early in the morning and a welcome gathering in the centre of the town to witness the match through the street in different historic costumes followed by mock battles between the Moors and Christians.

Musicas del Mundo is a huge festival that draws many musicians from all over the world. This usually takes place on the 17th-21st of July with about eight major concerts. The events include a lot of popular pop stars, Colombia musicians and legendary flamenco guitarists like Julio Fonseca, Paco de Lucia, Alejandro Fernandez, Puerto Rican group, Calle 13 and many others.

Cocas are special savoury snacks you will find during the festivals. They are pastries made with tuna, onions and pine nuts and could be eaten with figs. Other impeccable tastes of Alicante include Paella (like you have never tasted before), Pan con Tomate, Jamon Iberico and Papas Bravas.