Feast of Saint Nicholas on December 6 in Alicante

Saint Nicholas (San Nicolás de Bari) is the patron saint of the city of Alicante (along with other saints, but he is the main one). This is why his figure is much more significant in Alicante than in most other Spanish cities, where December 6 is celebrated merely as the day of Saint Nicholas, while the main winter festivities begin later.

December 6 is the official Feast of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, the city's patron (in Spanish: Día de San Nicolás de Bari, Patrón de Alicante). It is a municipal holiday and a day off in the city of Alicante itself (but not throughout the entire province).

What happens on this day:

• The main solemn mass at the Co-Cathedral of Saint Nicholas (Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari). This is the central event of the day.

• A procession carrying the image of Saint Nicholas through the streets of the old town.
• The symbolic handover of the mayor's ceremonial baton (el bastón de mando) to the statue of the saint, emphasizing that on this day, the city's patron takes symbolic authority.
• Official reception at the town hall, concerts, fireworks, public celebrations.
• Numerous children’s events, as Saint Nicholas in Spanish tradition (especially in eastern Spain) is closely associated with giving gifts to children (as a precursor to Papa Noel and Santa Claus).

Why did Saint Nicholas become the patron of Alicante?

In 1616, during a severe drought, a relic of Saint Nicholas from Bari was brought to the city. According to legend, soon after, long-awaited rains began, the drought ended, and grateful citizens proclaimed him their heavenly protector. Since then, devotion to him in Alicante has been especially strong.

Thus, December 6 in Alicante is not just the Catholic feast of Saint Nicholas, but the city's main celebration—a kind of winter “city day”—marked by unique traditions and grand festivities.