Tag: Event

  • Guide, Schedule & Burning Times of Fallas Denia 2024 in English

    Guide, Schedule & Burning Times of Fallas Denia 2024 in English

    Fallas in Denia

    Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, the charming city of Denia comes alive every March with the vibrant and fiery festival of Fallas, marking one of Spain’s most unique and spirited celebrations. Inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, this dazzling event transforms many cities across the region into a canvas of colossal effigies, fiery displays, and communal joy, showcasing a tradition steeped in creativity, satire, and the welcoming of spring. While Valencia may be the heartland of the Fallas festivities, Denia, with its own distinctive charm and fervor, offers a compelling experience that mirrors the grandeur and intensity of its larger counterpart yet maintains an intimate community feel.

    The Fallas in Denia 2024 promises an unforgettable spectacle, inviting locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a cultural phenomenon that blends ancient customs with contemporary artistry. As a testament to the enduring bond between Denia and its ancestral traditions, the festival not only honors the town’s heritage but also serves as a dynamic platform for social commentary and artistic expression. From the intricate design of the fallas (monumental sculptures) to the exhilarating burst of fireworks lighting up the night sky, every element of the festival is a tribute to the creativity, ingenuity, and spirited communal life of Denia.

    Fallas in Denia has a unique flavor of its own, the festival in the Capital of Marina Alta is a particularly attractive location for the popular Valencian festivity because the sculptures are burned one by one. This way, allows curious people to enjoy the spectacle in all parts of town bit by bit. Whether you’re drawn to the spectacle for its artistic merits, the thrill of the pyrotechnics, or the warmth of community gatherings, the Fallas festival in Denia offers a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate with the essence of Spanish festivity and tradition.

    A Brief History of Fallas Denia

    The roots of the Fallas festival in Denia, much like those in the rest of the Valencian Community, intertwine deeply with the region’s history, blending medieval customs, pagan rituals, and Christian celebrations into a vibrant tapestry of cultural expression. Originally, Fallas began as a feast day for St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, marking the arrival of spring with the burning of waste materials and old wooden items collected during the winter. This act of purification and renewal, over centuries, evolved into the elaborate festival we witness today, characterized by the creation and destruction of fallas – elaborate sculptures that are as satirical as they are spectacular.

    Denia’s adaptation of this tradition has grown in scale and complexity, reflecting both local and global themes through its fallas. These towering figures, crafted with incredible skill and wit, fill the city’s squares and streets, turning Denia into an open-air museum of ephemeral art. Each falla is a marvel of design, engineering, and artistry, representing months of dedication by local artists and communities. They often depict scenes of social, political, and cultural commentary, providing insight into contemporary issues with humor and creativity.

    The festival’s crescendo, the ‘Nit de la Cremà’ (Night of the Burning), sees these magnificent sculptures consumed by flames in a symbolic act of regeneration and rebirth. This spectacular finale, lit against the backdrop of Denia’s historic landscapes and Mediterranean charm, is a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and the impermanence of art.

    Through periods of prohibition and revival, the Fallas festival has persisted, embodying the resilience and adaptability of the Valencian spirit. Even during the Franco regime, when regional languages and traditions were suppressed, Fallas found a way to endure, adapting its forms of expression to ensure its survival. Today, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Fallas festival stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to its cultural legacy, celebrating not just the arrival of spring but also the enduring power of creativity and community. In Denia, the Fallas festival is more than just a series of events; it is a communal act of creation, celebration, and renewal, deeply woven into the fabric of the city’s identity.

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    Fallas Denia 2024 Details

    • Location: Denia, Spain
    • Date: February 8 – March 19
    • Entrance: Free
    • Accommodation: Denia
    • Parade-watching location: Marqués de Campo
    • Main events: The Plantà (March 11-16), La Ofrenda (March 17-18), Nit de la Cremà (March 19)

    Fallas Denia Map

    Where to Stay?

    Having experienced the Fallas festival in Denia, it’s clear the entire city vibrates with the festival’s energy, especially during this period. Your accommodation choice should depend on what you’re looking to get out of your visit. If you’re here to dive deep into the festivities, staying close to the city center will keep you near the heart of the action. For those primarily interested in the ‘Nit de la Cremà’ and don’t mind a bit of travel, options outside the center could also work well. Denia’s local transportation, including buses and taxis, efficiently accommodates the influx of visitors, ensuring you’re never too far from the festival’s highlights.

    Recommended locations: Plaza del Consell, Calle Marqués de Campo, Las Marinas Beach, Near Montgó Natural Park or any other place in Denia for a peaceful retreat.

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    Fallas Denia 2024 Schedule

    The Fallas in Denia 2024 promises an array of events filled with tradition, art, and community spirit. To help you navigate through the festivities, here’s a breakdown of the schedule:

    Week 1

    Thursday, February 8

    • 19:00: Opening of the Fallas clubhouses
    • 19:30: Visit of the judging panel to the clubhouses participating in the decorated clubhouses prize

    Saturday, February 10

    • 18:15: Gathering of the Fallas commissions, Local Fallas Board, major Falleras of Dénia, and courts of honor on Federico García Lorca street.
    • 18:30: Visit of the major Falleras of Dénia, courts of honor, Local Fallas Board, and commissions to the clubhouses of the Fallas Camp Roig, Campaments, Darrere del Castell, Les Roques, and Baix la Mar, and Fallas announcements

    Week 2

    Thursday, February 15

    • 19:30: Visit of the judging panel to the clubhouses participating in the decorated clubhouses prize

    Friday, February 16

    • 10:30 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 19:00: Reception of Ninots participants of the Ninot Exhibition at Casa de la Marquesa Valero de Palma
    • 19:45: Gathering of the Fallas commissions, Local Fallas Board, major Falleras of Dénia, and courts of honor in Valgamediós Square.
    • 18:30: Visit of the major Falleras of Dénia, courts of honor, Local Fallas Board, and commissions to the clubhouses of the Fallas West, Center, Port Rotes, Diana, Saladar, and Paris Pedrera, and Fallas announcements

    Saturday, February 17

    • 17:45: Gathering of the Fallas officials 2024 at the end of Marqués de Campo street
    • 18:00: Parade to the Ninot Exhibition
    • 18:30: Opening of the Ninot Exhibition 2024 at Casa de la Marquesa
    • 20:00: Crida by the major Falleras of Dénia, Mar Moncho Roselló and Candela Marco Jiménez, and proclamation, in Constitució square
    • 21:00: Fallera Gala Dinner with the award of the 2024 Exemplary Fallero distinction and awards of JLF and JCF at L’Androna Multiespai Room.

    Sunday, February 18

    • 18:30: Children’s Fallera Gala with the awards of JLF and JCF. Afterwards, snack for the attending children.

    Week 3

    • Pause

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    Week 4

    March 1 to 14

    • 14:00: Tir de carcasses (firecracker event)

    Saturday, March 2

    • 13:00: Dinar de Germanor (Brotherhood meal) in Torrecremada, and awarding of the Best Fallas Ban, Best Fallas Presentations, Best Showcase, Best Presenters, Best Keepers, Child’s Pardoned Ninot, and Adult’s Pardoned Ninot

    Sunday, March 3

    • 12:00: Concert by the Artistic Musical Group of Dénia, at the crossroads of Saladar Av. and Diana St.

    Week 5

    Wednesday, March 6

    • 09:45 to 13:30 and 16:45 to 20:30: Fallera blood donation in Llunàtics Multipurpose Room.

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    Week 6

    Monday, March 11 to Saturday, March 16

    • La Planta (Eng. Planting of the Fallas)
    Construction of Paris-Pedrera Falla in Denia, 2023
    Construction of Paris-Pedrera Falla in Denia, 2023. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Thursday, March 14

    • 20:00: First Night of Serenades to the major Falleras of Dénia in the following order:
      • Major Falleras of Dénia – Plaza de la Constitució (Constitution Square)
      • Falla Les Roques
      • Falla West
      • Falla Campaments
      • Falla Behind the Castle
      • Falla Baix la Mar

    Friday, March 15

    • 10:00: Breakfast in the Fallas areas
    • 10:00: The FFMM, Mar Moncho Roselló and Candela Marco Jiménez, will welcome visitors at the Tourist Office of Oculist Buigues square
    • 14:00: Tir de carcasses (firecracker event) and Plantà meal in the Fallas neighborhoods
    • 20:00: Second Night of Serenades:
      • Falla Camp Roig
      • Falla Paris-Pedrera
      • Falla Saladar
      • Falla Diana
      • Falla Port Rotes
      • Falla Center

    Saturday, March 16

    • 08:00: Planting of the Fallas monuments in the different districts of the city
    • 10:00: Breakfast in all the Fallas districts
    • 12:30: Planting of the Local Fallas Board’s Falla in Consell Square
    • 14:00: Tir de carcasses (firecracker event) and Plantà meal in the Fallas neighborhoods
    • 18:00: Courtesy visit of the major Falleras of Dénia, Courts of Honor, and Local Fallas Board to the Fallas districts in the following order:
      • Falla Les Roques
      • Falla Baix la Mar
      • Falla Behind the Castle
      • Falla Campaments
      • Falla West
      • Falla Camp Roig
      • Falla Paris-Pedrera
      • Falla Saladar
      • Falla Diana
      • Falla Port Rotes
      • Falla Center
    • 21:00: Plantà dinner
    • 22:00: Announcement rockets for the Night of the Planting

    Denia Fallas Main Event

    Sunday, March 17- La Ofrenda

    • 07:00: Wake-up call in the Fallas areas
    • 08:00: Visit of the judging panel to the Fallas
    • 09:00: Visit of the rest of the juries
    • 10:45: Gathering of all the commissions in the Town Hall Square
    • 11:00: Tribute to the major Falleras of Dénia and to the major Falleras of Les Roques, Behind the Castle, and Baix la Mar
    • 13:00: Awarding of children’s prizes at the Town Hall
    • 14:00: Mascletà in the different Fallas districts
    • 18:15: Gathering of all the commissions on Patricio Ferrándiz street.
    • 18:30: Homages to the major Falleras of Paris Pedrera, Camp Roig, Campaments, and West
    • 20:30: Awarding of the prizes for the big Fallas 2024 at the Town Hall
    • 23:00: Festivals in the Fallas districts

    Monday, March 18 – La Ofrenda

    • 07:00: Wake-up call in the Fallas areas
    • 11:15: Gathering of all the commissions in Consell square
    • 11:30: Tribute to the major Falleras of Center, Port Rotes, Diana, and Saladar
    • 14:00: Mascletà in the Fallas districts
    • 20:30: Mascletà in Jaume I Square
    • 23:00: Festivals in the Fallas districts

    Tuesday, March 19 – St. Joseph’s Day

    • 07:00: Wake-up call in the Fallas areas
    • 08:00: Children’s wake-up call
    • 10:00: Parades in the Fallas areas
    • 11:00: Mass in honor of St. Joseph at the Church of the Assumption
    • 11:00: Flower offering in honor of la Virgen de los Desamparados (the Virgin of the Forsaken). Route: Marqués de Campo St., Diana St., Magallanes, Convent Sq.
    • 14:30: Mascletàs in the Fallas districts
    • 18:00: Parades in the Fallas districts
    • 19:00: Reception for the new presidents for the 2024-2025 period in the Town Hall Square

    Burning Times of the Fallas Dénia 2024

    The times for the Nit de la Cremà (Eng. Burning of the Fallas) are approximate.

    References & Useful Links

    Gallery of Fallas Denia

    2022

  • The Guide & Schedule for Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024

    The Guide & Schedule for Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024

    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

    This is not so well known but the capital of Tenerife, the biggest island in the whole Canaries, holds the second biggest carnival in the world. It is no surprise that Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a twinned city with Rio de Janeiro – the host of the biggest carnival in the world – Carnival of Rio de Janeiro. Throughout the years with the growing tourism, the popularity of the event only grew.

    In 1987 more than 250,000 gathered for the performance of Celia Cruz during the Carnival and it was registered by World Guinness Book Records as the biggest people gathering in an outdoor plaza to date. Though it was not acknowledged by the same institution, it is well-recognized that more than 400,000 people gathered during Day Carnival in 2019.

    Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    Every Queen of Carnival is more beautiful than the others. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    A Brief History of Carnival in Spain

    The celebration of the carnival has been in the Canary Islands since the arrival of Europeans. Though considered to be a Christian event, it could be a continuation of some kind of pagan tradition to celebrate the return of light.

    Today it is the biggest annual event held in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, but not everybody all the time likes the idea of carnival and wearing masks. Throughout history, there have been several attempts to ban masks or the carnival itself. Despite all the attempts the celebrations persisted. Together with Cadiz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife continued to celebrate the carnival even during the Franco regime when the event was banned, probably due to pagan origins. The resilience of people might be the reason why Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts such a big carnival these days.

    Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    One thing is for sure – Spaniards know how to celebrate & party. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Where to stay?

    I’ve been to Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife only for The Grand Parade day but from what I saw – it left me with the impression that the city is partying for the whole duration of the Carnival. So, it depends on what you are after for but if fun is the goal – the closer to the city center – the closer to the action. If you are interested only in the parade part of the carnival – anywhere would do. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to get there somehow. TITSA transportation company will have an increased number of buses operating, depending on the crowds.

    Recommended locations: Plaza de España, Plaza Principe de Asturias, Plaza de la Candelaria, Fountain Square Weyler or anywhere else in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for quieter nights.

    Santa Cruz de Tenerife during the 2019 Carnival
    Staying close to the city center will make you feel like a part of the carnival even when at home. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Santa Cruz Carnival 2024 Details

    • Carnival theme: Television
    • Location: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
    • Date: Jan 12 – Feb 18
    • Entrance: Free
    • Accomondation: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
    • Parade-watching location: Plaza de España
    • Main events: The Queen’s Gala (Feb 7), The Opening Parade of the Carnival (Feb 13), The Big Carnival Parade in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (17 Feb)

    Carnival Map

    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024 Schedule

    In 2019 when I was visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife for the event I found it quite difficult to find relevant information except in Spanish. The schedule and location information are taken from the official carnival website(find the reference at the end of the article) and translated into English. Also, I added Google Maps directions to all the locations where the event is taking place. I hope you find this useful because it was exactly what I needed in 2019 when I last visited the carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

    Week 1

    Friday Jan 12

    • 21:30 – Opening of Carnival 2024

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    Week 2

    Thursday, Jan 18


    Friday, Jan 19


    Saturday, Jan 20


    Sunday, Jan 21

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    Week 3

    Monday, Jan 22


    Tuesday, Jan 23


    Wednesday, Jan 24


    Friday, Jan 26


    Saturday, Jan 27


    Sunday, Jan 28

    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    Photo from Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Week 4

    Wednesday, Jan 31


    Friday, Feb 2

    • 20:30La Canción de la Risa (Laughter Song Contest) – Guimerá Theater;

    Saturday, Feb 3


    Sunday, Feb 4

    Orchestra parade in Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    Though it is hard to take a picture of orchestra performances, they are as much impressive as the Queens of Carnival. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Week 5

    Wednesday, Feb 7


    Thursday, Feb 8

    • 20:30 – Performance of the Agrupación Lírica La Zarzuela of Círculo de Amistad XII de Enero – Guimerá Theater;

    Friday, Feb 9


    Saturday, Feb 10


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    Sunday, Feb 11

    Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    During the Grand Parade of the Carnival you can see all of the Queen of Carnival finalists. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Week 6

    Monday, Feb 12

    • All dayCarnival’s Monday

    Tuesday, Feb 13


    Wednesday, Feb 14


    Thursday, Feb 15

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    Friday, Feb 16


    Friday, Feb 17

    • 13:00Day Carnival – All stages with performances;

    Sunday, Feb 18 – Pinata Sunday

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    References & Useful Links

  • Best Nativity Scenes (Betlem) in Marina Alta

    Best Nativity Scenes (Betlem) in Marina Alta

    A Cherished Christmas Tradition

    As the festive season approaches, the Marina Alta region in Spain becomes a canvas for a heartwarming tradition that has been cherished for generations – the display of Betlems, or nativity scenes. This tradition, deeply rooted in the Valencian Community, just as it is Spanish culture in general. Nevertheless, each region has its own quirks and taste to approach this long-standing tradition. You’ll find a unique expression in the towns of Marina Alta, where each Betlem is not just a depiction of the Nativity story but a reflection of the community’s artistic flair and dedication.

    The Origin and Significance of Betlems in Spanish Culture

    The practice of setting up nativity scenes, or ‘Beléns’ as they are known in Spanish, or ‘Betlems’ as they are known locally in Valenciano language, dates back to the 13th century. St. Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223, aiming to cultivate the worship of Christ. From this humble beginning in Italy, the tradition spread to Spain, where it evolved over centuries to become an integral part of the Christmas celebration.

    In Marina Alta, this tradition takes on a local flavor. Each town brings its own history, culture and local crafts to life through these intricate displays. The Betlems are more than just religious symbols; they are a showcase of craftsmanship and a focal point for community gatherings during the holiday season. Marina Alta, and Spain in general, is crazy about miniature nativity scenes, just with a rather odd twist. It evolved in a strange way – that baby Jesus is not the main superstar bur rather ‘the pooper’, or locally known as ‘El Caganer’. These rather odd figures appear even in the local Nativity Scenes in churches, though always on the furthest corner fro the baby Jesus. Their origin is unknown, some guess that they symbolize the fertilization of the land, but knowing the fun character of Spanish people my bet would be that ‘the popper’ is just a prank gone wild.

    The Uniqueness of Marina Alta’s Betlems

    What sets the Betlems of Marina Alta apart is their . These nativity scenes are not just displays; they are stories told through art, capturing the essence of the region’s rich cultural tapestry. The use of local materials like wood, clay, and textiles, and the incorporation of scenes depicting traditional Spanish life, make each Betlem a unique piece of art.

    As we delve deeper into the world of Marina Alta’s Betlems, we find ourselves immersed in a tradition that beautifully intertwines religious reverence with artistic expression and community spirit. In the following section, we will explore some of the most popular nativity scenes in Marina Alta, each with its own story and charm.

    Betlem - NATIVITY SCENE - in Vergel, Marina Alta, Spain 2
    Nativity Scene tradition in El Vergel is 3 decade old. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    El Vergel

    El Vergel’s nativity scene, a tradition for nearly 30 years, is a marvel of community effort. Each piece, crafted by local volunteers, reflects their dedication and affection. The scene has evolved over time, featuring realistic mountains mimicking local landscapes like the Serra de Segària, historical period houses made from plaster and cardboard, and unique handcrafted figures. This Betlem is a vivid portrayal of the Christmas story, intertwined with El Vergel’s rich community life and creative spirit

    Location: Carrer Abadia 1


    Denia

    Denia offers a unique twist by situating its nativity scene by the sea. This maritime Betlem, complete with fishing boats and sea-related elements, reflects Denia’s close relationship with the Mediterranean. The sound of waves gently lapping against the shore adds a serene and contemplative ambiance to the traditional nativity story.

    Location: Baleària


    Xàbia

    Xàbia’s nativity scene is a testament to traditional Spanish craftsmanship. Using local materials and age-old techniques, this Betlem is a homage to the enduring nature of Spanish Christmas traditions. The detailed figurines, dressed in period attire, and the realistic miniature buildings offer a glimpse into the historical lifestyle of Marina Alta.

    Location: Soler Blasco Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum

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    Pego

    Pego’s Betlem is a true historic gem, featuring main figures that are over a century old, originally part of the Franciscan nuns’ nativity scene. These figures, rich in history, were donated to the town when the nuns left about two decades ago​​. The Associació Betlemista de Pego, led by Salvador Miralles, Pepe Mengual, and Abril Sendra, played a pivotal role in the Betlem’s restoration. This meticulous handwork, coupled with new figures crafted from recycled materials or hand-painted, represents a blend of tradition and innovation. Notable aspects include hand-restored main figures, structures made from cork and other recycled materials, and small details like fruits, vegetables, and doves crafted from cold porcelain. Additionally, the Betlem features elements that replicate real geographic locations in Pego, adding a layer of local charm and authenticity​​.

    Location: Carrer Hospital 2


    Calpe

    This town won’t miss a chance to entertain its visitors and inhabitants. Here, Nativity Scenes lines-up into a long list of things to do in Calpe. Naturally, Calpe respects its long standing culture and history, and maintains tradition of Betlems, just with a twist. Calpe’s Nativity Scene stands out with its interactive nativity scene, where visitors can walk through and experience the story of Jesus’ birth up close. This engaging approach, combined with live performances on certain days, makes Calpe’s Betlem a lively and immersive experience for all ages.

    Location: Casa de Cultura (Av. Masnou 1)

    The Nativity Scene in Calpe, Marina Alta, Spain
    The Nativity Scene in Calpe, Marina Alta, Spain. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Personal Experience

    My December visit to Marina Alta offered a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions, where each town’s Betlem, or nativity scene, was not just a display but a vibrant narrative of culture, faith, and community. As I meandered through the region, each Betlem I encountered was a testament to local artistry and tradition. In Pego, the meticulous craftsmanship and lighting of the scene were spellbinding, weaving a story of hope and joy. Vergel’s nativity scene, lovingly crafted by local artisans, radiated a warm sense of community, reflecting the stories and spirit of its creators.

    What struck me most was the diversity and uniqueness of each town’s interpretation of the Nativity story. From traditional materials to scenes depicting local life, every Betlem I saw was deeply rooted in the region’s history and cultural heritage. This journey through Marina Alta’s nativity scenes was more than just a festive tour; it was an immersion into the heart and soul of the region. The Betlems stand as vibrant expressions of the communities’ culture and faith, leaving me with not only memories of their beauty but a profound appreciation of the traditions that unify Marina Alta.