Local & Spanish

Cremà of the Fallas Monument Brings San José Festivities to a Close in l'Alfàs del Pi

Alfaz / 20 March 2026

The spectacular cremà of the Fallas monument last night marked the official close of the San José festivities in l'Alfàs del Pi, concluding several days of vibrant cultural celebration, community spirit, and long-standing tradition.

Residents and visitors gathered to witness the symbolic burning of the monument, where fire—seen as a purifying force—brought a powerful and emotional end to the town’s centuries-old festivities.

This year’s Fallas monument carried a strong environmental message. Designed as a dramatic pirate ship torn apart by a kraken, the installation highlighted concerns around marine pollution and the urgent need to protect the natural environment. The piece was created by the Majorals de Sant Josep commission in collaboration with artists Juanfran Mateos and Juanfran Pérez, following a participatory process launched in October that engaged local schools, community groups, and residents.

Celebrations for the Feast of Saint Joseph's Day saw strong participation across all events. The day began with the traditional despertà (wake-up call), followed by a floral offering, a solemn Mass, and the traditional dansà. In the afternoon, a lively procession moved through the town’s streets, accompanied by the La Lira Musical Society and the Colla de Xirimiters de la Marina, before culminating in a poignant religious address delivered by local youth representative Juan José López Martínez.

In the lead-up to the main day, the programme featured activities for all ages, including children’s entertainment, social gatherings for older residents, and live musical performances—reflecting the inclusive and community-driven nature of the celebrations.

The 2026 festivities were organised by the Majorals de Sant Josep committee, led by Ana Arroyo and formed by the Penya L'Os group, who have been instrumental in coordinating a programme that continues to grow in popularity and participation.

Sandra Gómez, Councillor for Festivals and Traditions at l'Alfàs del Pi Town Hall, praised the efforts of organisers, volunteers, and participants, noting the strong turnout and community engagement throughout the festivities.

The San José celebrations have deep historical roots in the town, with records dating back to 1837. After a period of hiatus, the festival was revived three years ago by local residents and has since returned with renewed energy and widespread support.

🌴 What’s On This Week – Costa Blanca

(Benidorm & surrounding areas)

Overview

This week across Benidorm, Altea, Albir, Finestrat, and La Nucía is mainly:

Weekly markets and street trading

Live music in bars and small venues

Early spring coastal tourism activity (boat trips, promenades)

Small cultural events and exhibitions

Gradual build-up toward May festivals in Benidorm

BENIDORM – Events and Activity

Markets and street life

Wednesday and Sunday main street markets (large general markets for clothing, food, and goods)
Old Town craft stalls operating in the evenings
Night markets becoming more active as tourist season builds

Cultural activity

Early preparations and signage for the Medieval Market coming soon in central Benidorm
Small pop-up performances in Old Town squares (musicians, street entertainment)

Nightlife and entertainment

Live music every night across the main strips (cover bands, tribute acts, karaoke)
DJ sets and bar entertainment increasing toward peak season
Rooftop bars and terrace venues reopening more consistently

Overall feel

Benidorm is in an active pre-summer phase with strong nightlife and steady tourist flow.

ALTEA – Cultural and coastal atmosphere

Old Town and culture
Art galleries and artisan shops open daily
Small exhibitions and cultural displays in local venues

Live music

Acoustic and low-key live music in bars around Old Town and seafront areas
Occasional weekend performances in Irish and cocktail bars

Sea activities

Boat trips operating from Altea harbour including:
Coastal cruises
Sunset sailing trips
Swimming stops depending on weather conditions

Overall feel

Quiet, scenic, and cultural with a strong focus on relaxation rather than nightlife.

ALBIR / ALFÀS DEL PI – Mixed expat and local activity

Markets

Friday weekly street market with food, clothing, and household goods
Nearby Sunday markets in Altea also attract visitors from the area

Live music

Regular pub and bar entertainment, especially in Irish and rock-themed venues
Weekly live bands and acoustic performances across multiple venues

Cultural venues

Casa de Cultura hosting small theatre events, exhibitions, and community activities
Regular local group meetings and social clubs

Overall feel

Balanced area with both relaxed daytime atmosphere and active evenings.

LA NUCÍA – Local and sporting focus

Markets

Sunday rastro (large flea market with antiques, tools, clothes, and food stalls)
Entertainment
Occasional live music in local bars, mostly weekends

Sports activity

Large sports complex hosting training camps, tournaments, and weekend events

Overall feel

Quiet residential town with activity concentrated around weekends and sports events.

FINESTRAT – Beach and market lifestyle

Markets

Tuesday and Saturday markets in La Cala area with a mix of local produce and goods

Beachfront activity

Beach bars and restaurants increasingly open in the evenings
Sunset dining season beginning again

Entertainment

Low-key live music in beachfront bars rather than organised events

Overall feel

Relaxed coastal town focused on beach life and casual evenings.

OVERALL SUMMARY

Benidorm: busiest area with nightlife, markets, and entertainment

Altea: cultural, scenic, and relaxed

Albir / Alfàs del Pi: balanced mix of live music and expat social life

La Nucía: local, quiet, and sports-focused

Finestrat: beach-oriented and low-key

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Cremà of the Fallas Monument Brings San José Festivities to a Close in l'Alfàs del Pi

🌴 What’s On This Week – Costa Blanca

(Benidorm & surrounding areas)

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