Winter in Benidorm

If Benidorm has ever been somewhere you might have fancied, but never really been brave enough to try, early November is one of the best times of the year to really absorb yourself into the diverse and rich cultural heritage that the city has to offer.

It doesn´t matter who you are or what your expectations are, but we all have an expectation of what Benidorm has to offer. Some see it with a feeling of distaste, others with an emotion of escapism that takes them to a fantasy land where all their troubles can be forgotten. Whatever you might think Benidorm is, you are both right and you are wrong, because Benidorm offers everything you want it to, but allows you to escape from the parts you don´t want.

Early November is a vibrant time to visit the town, as Benidorm celebrates the Fiestas Patronales, acknowledging the patron saints of the Sufragio and San Jaime.

However, let us ignore any kind of religious connotation to this fiesta and look at the reality of what actually happens. This is one of, if not THE fiesta of the year for Benidorm. Groups of people gather together, often renting vacant shop or bar premises as their base camp, whilst celebrating the togetherness of the community groups that they identify themselves with. Almost like an extended family, patrons don scarves, t-shirts and hats, in order to associate themselves with their clique, and party like their world may end at any moment.

The celebrations spread across all ages and generations, from the elders to the youngest, where families, neighbours and community groups come together to celebrate their patrons.

At times the atmosphere becomes a little lively, with fireworks and bangers thrown through the streets, but mainly it is the coming together of groups of people with similar interests, without any kind of religious or political slant, just the intention to have fun.

Visitors often arrive early and the joy starts straight away, even before the stage is set for the open air performances you can expect during this time.

If you have ever considered Benidorm as a holiday destination, now is the time to try, Just remember, that whatever stereotype you have of the place will exist, but so will the place to let your hair down, become part of the community and allow yourself to be drawn into the cultural experience that is Benidorm, as Benidorm IS whatever you want it to be.