9 October is a special day for the inhabitants of the Autonomous Community of Valencia, to which the city of Alicante belongs. It is the day when they celebrate the Day of the Valencian Community (Día de la Comunidad Valenciana) and remember an important historical event – the conquest of Valencia by King Jaime I in 1238. This holiday is celebrated throughout Valencia, but in Alicante it has its own special features that make it unique and interesting for tourists and locals.
History of the holiday on 9 October
The historical roots of Valencia Community Day go back to the 13th century, when King Jaime I (James I of Aragon), also known as Jaime the Conqueror, conquered the city of Valencia from the Muslims. On that day, 9 October 1238, a Christian cross was raised on the towers of the city, symbolising the end of the Reconquista (liberation of the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule) in the region. King Jaime I then assumed leadership of the new Christian territory, which later became the autonomous community of Valencia.
9 October became the official date for the people of the Valencian Community to honour the memory of Jaime I and celebrate the cultural and historical characteristics of the region. Since then, the holiday has become a symbol of independence and pride for the people of Valencia, reflecting the unique cultural and linguistic identity of the region.
Celebrations in Alicante
Although the main celebrations take place in the city of Valencia, Alicante also celebrates the day in a big way. The city hosts events that include parades, concerts, cultural and gastronomic festivals. Here are some of the most popular traditions and events that can be seen in Alicante on 9 October:
1. Moor and Christian Parade
The parade of Moors and Christians is one of the most exciting spectacles of the holiday. This colourful parade symbolises the battles between Moors and Christians that took place in Spain during the Reconquista. Parade participants dress in traditional costumes of Moors and Christian knights, showing scenes that take the audience back to the events of the 13th century. The parade is accompanied by fireworks, music and various theatrical performances, adding to the medieval atmosphere.
2. Gastronomic festivals
On the streets of Alicante you can sample traditional Valencian dishes such as paella and fideua. The city hosts cookery fairs where local chefs prepare dishes made from the seafood, vegetables and spices for which the region is famous. You can also try the famous Allicante horchata, a refreshing drink made from chufa tubers, often served with ‘fartones’ – sweet buns.
3. Concerts and cultural events
On 9 October there are various cultural events in Alicante. Theatre performances, music concerts and art exhibitions fill the city’s squares and museums. Traditional Valencian melodies and dances help you immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. In the evening, traditional Valencian instruments such as the tabalet and dolsaína are played in the streets, setting the mood for residents and tourists alike.
4. Fireworks and pyrotechnic shows
Pyrotechnic shows are an integral part of the festivities in Alicante. In the evening, the sky above the city lights up with bright fireworks to symbolise the end of the festivities. These shows attract residents and tourists, creating a colourful experience and emphasising the importance of the holiday for the region.
5. Festive procession in honour of St. Dionysius
9 October also coincides with the feast of Saint Dionysius, the patron saint of lovers. In Alicante and other towns in the region, it is traditional to bake sweets in the form of marzipan figures called mocadorà. These sweets are wrapped in a handkerchief and given as gifts to loved ones as a reminder of the folk traditions of the holiday.
The significance of the holiday for Alicante
For Alicante and other cities in the Valencian Community, this holiday is not only a remembrance of a great historical event, but also an important symbol of cultural heritage. On this day, the inhabitants of the city are particularly proud of their origins, showing the traditions and customs that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Valencian Community Day emphasises Valencia’s uniqueness, its cultural and historical characteristics, and helps to unite the people living in the region. The celebration on 9 October is a way to express respect for the past and show love for the land, its history and traditions.
In Alicante, this celebration always takes place in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Locals and tourists enjoy participating in parades, enjoying gastronomic delights and immersing themselves in the cultural atmosphere. The festivities make this day unforgettable, allowing everyone to feel part of this ancient and tradition-rich land.