Easter celebrations in Alicante start on the Friday before Palm Sunday, when the figure of Christ of the Sea arrives in the harbour in a boat escorted by the port police. From then until Easter Sunday, a total of 28 processions wind through the city streets accompanied by sombre music. The Palm Sunday procession, with the townspeople carrying the traditional filigree palm leaves, is one of the most popular. Other notable processions include the Morenet, known as the “patron of sailors”; the Santa Cruz or Holy Cross, which usually draws the biggest crowds; and the Last Supper, with a monumental float requiring nearly 200 bearers.
In addition to the religious celebrations, Easter is also a time for food and fun in Alicante, on Easter Monday, a large fair is held in the city center, with rides, games, and food stalls. Families come out to enjoy the day, and the atmosphere is festive and joyful.
Over the month before Easter in Alicante, there is a tapas route – Ruta de la Tapa Cofrade – and a culinary festival for Lent – Jornadas Gastronómicas de Cuaresma – offering traditional local dishes relating to this religious festival in different bars and restaurants in the city.
Easter is a special time of year in Alicante, and it is a great time to visit the city and experience the unique culture and traditions.