Round Town: Local News Benidorm, Alfaz, Altea.

They arrive en massé around 8pm and set up camp with a motley array of tables, chairs, cooking equipment and cool boxes. Family and friends then enjoy supper together before hitting the shoreline at midnight as tradition dictates they should throw in 3 coins, a white flower and light a candle for their dreams to come true. These days most people just splash and paddle before drying off beside the ‘hoguera’ (bonfire) especially lit for the occasion.

It’s a fabulous tradition and it surely would have been banned in the UK years ago (going into the sea at midnight – far too dangerous!) but that’s what we love about Spain – its refusal to be tamed where tradition is concerned. So get yourself along to the beach on June 23^rd – Benidorm isn’t big on this party but it’s neighbours are; this photo was taken at the San Juan celebrations in la Cala – the next bay along from Benidorm, easily reached on the number 12 or 41 bus. There’s also a fantastic beach party on Albir beach, the next town down from Benidorm in the opposite direction, again easily reached on the number 10 bus. It’s your chance to be part of a real Spanish fiesta –  as usual there are makeshift bars at hand to keep the crowd watered and the atmosphere of ‘Summers Here’ is absolutely fantastic!