Get ready for the most spectacular fancy dress celebration in Europe! Here's everything you need to know about Benidorm's legendary costume parties for the next two years.
What started as a simple marketing idea has become a phenomenon that attracts over 35,000 people from across Europe to the sunny streets of Benidorm each November.
The story begins in the 1990s with Roger Williams and his bar, The Sportsman's Retreat. Williams founded the Benidorm Half Marathon, which coincidentally fell during the same week as Benidorm's traditional patron saint festivities. British runners, being British, decided to add their own twist to the proceedings by running the marathon in fancy dress costumes.
After the race, these costumed athletes would gather on the terrace of the Ambassador Playa Hotel to celebrate their achievements. But the real game-changer came when Manolo from Sinatras Cabaret Bar had a brilliant idea: he offered a free drink to anyone who turned up in costume on the Thursday after the Spanish fiestas ended.
What seemed like a simple pub promotion quickly snowballed into something extraordinary. From those humble beginnings with just 80 participants, the event has exploded into what's now recognized as Europe's largest fancy dress street party.
The highlight of the day is the spectacular parade that kicks off around 2-4 PM. Featuring elaborate themed floats, live music, dance groups, and DJs, the procession winds through the heart of the "British Square" area:
The action centers around the "British Square" area, so consider accommodation near:
Past participants have appeared as everything from elaborate Disney characters to creative group themes. Some memorable sights include:
This isn't just a party – it's big business. The fancy dress celebration has become such a draw that many British tourists specifically book their holidays around this event. Local businesses, from costume shops to restaurants, see a significant boost during this period.
Hotels often get booked up months in advance, and the event generates millions of euros for the local economy while cementing Benidorm's reputation as a year-round destination.
As we approach the 2025 and 2026 celebrations, expectations are higher than ever. The event continues to grow, with local authorities and businesses working together to accommodate the increasing numbers while maintaining the authentic, grassroots spirit that made it special.
Organizers are increasingly focusing on making the event more sustainable, encouraging reusable costumes and reducing waste from the massive celebration.
The Benidorm Fancy Dress Party represents something uniquely beautiful about European culture – the ability to embrace tradition while creating new ones, to celebrate diversity while bringing people together, and to prove that sometimes the best parties are the ones that start with the simplest ideas.
Whether you're a seasoned Benidorm veteran or planning your first visit, experiencing this extraordinary celebration should be on every traveler's bucket list. Where else can you witness 35,000 people in costume celebrating life, friendship, and the pure joy of dressing up on a sunny Mediterranean Thursday in November?
Pack your costume, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a celebration unlike any other. Benidorm's fancy dress fiestas await – and trust us, you'll never forget your first time joining Europe's ultimate costume party!
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Tarra is one of Infinity Weekends’ lively Resort Reps and is always right where the fun is happening. Based in Benidorm, she loves the buzzing nightlife, amazing entertainment, and the fact the resort really does have something for everyone. Tarra thrives on meeting new people, helping groups settle in, and making sure every stag and hen trip is one to remember.
š¶ What’s your party anthem?
10:35 – Tiësto and Tate McRae
š¹ Best hangover cure?
Hair of the dog
šļø Favourite Infinity Weekends destination (and why)?
Benidorm – the best entertainment and it’s got something for everyone!
šŗ Secret talent or weird fact?
I know every Steps dance routine
Go-to karaoke song: Vanilla Ice – Ice Ice Baby
š¤ What do you love most about your job?
Meeting new people and turning strangers into friends!
š² Instagram:@tarra_stewart93
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