9 and 12 October: Two holidays that reveal another side of the Costa Blanca

Coffee in a village square, lunch with family and a walk by the sea: October offers a chance to get to know the Costa Blanca beyond its summer image. Two nearby public holidays provide a useful introduction to the region’s culture and everyday life.

9 October: Valencian Community Day

The Día de la Comunitat Valenciana, also known as Nou d’Octubre, is a regional public holiday throughout the Valencian Community. This includes Alicante province and therefore the Costa Blanca, as well as Valencia and Castellón.

It commemorates King Jaume I’s entry into the city of Valencia on 9 October 1238. Today, the occasion highlights Valencian history, culture, language and identity. Understanding it is one small step towards feeling part of the place you may one day call home.

Sant Donís and a sweet gift

9 October is also Sant Donís. Particularly in Valencia and the surrounding area, people give a loved one a mocadorà: marzipan fruit and vegetable shapes wrapped in a handkerchief. This affectionate tradition is not equally widespread in every Costa Blanca town.

12 October: Spain’s National Day

On 12 October, Spain celebrates the Fiesta Nacional de España, a nationwide public holiday. The distinction is straightforward: 9 October celebrates the Valencian region, while 12 October has national significance.

A four-day weekend in 2026

In 2026, 9 October falls on Friday and 12 October on Monday. Anyone with weekends off can therefore enjoy four consecutive days away from work. You may hear the Spanish word puente used for an extended holiday weekend.

Arrange shopping and appointments in advance, check individual opening hours and consider booking a restaurant table. Consult each town hall’s current programme for local events rather than assuming every town has the same celebrations.

Look beyond the holiday atmosphere

If you are considering buying a home on the northern Costa Blanca, spend time exploring Benissa, Dénia or the Jalón Valley. Think about how each place would work for your own daily routine.

A holiday weekend gives only a partial picture. Visit on an ordinary weekday too, looking at year-round services, practical journeys and the neighbourhood around a potential home.

For me, finding a property includes understanding the life around it.

If you are looking for your place on the Costa Blanca, I can guide you personally and honestly towards a home that fits your plans.