The annual Benidorm fiesta was officially opened yesterday evening with the turning on of the street lights - with the honour being performed by the infant and senior fiesta queens of the town.
A large crowd turned out to cheer the small procession of Queens and officials from the organising fiesta committee, followed by an obligatory band, up the Calle Gambo.

The infant Queen made a short speech from the podium and then announced "The fiesta´s are now officially open - Mr Electrician Man, please turn on the lights"!

Due to the economic climate the budget for lights went from 40,000 euros last year to 18,000 euros for this year... still a lot of money but they have only been placed on the main streets. The same lights will also stay for Christmas - normally they take them down then a few weeks later put new ones up.

At 12 noon today the Mirador was awash with people, all gathered to witness the traditional canon fire and fireworks.... yes really, fireworks in broad daylight!
There was mass at the San Jaime church at 10am - attended by the Mayor, Official Dignitaries and Fiesta Queens.

It was such a beautiful sunny morning and bands assembled from mid morning - many of them coming from neighbouring villages such as La Nucia, Villa Joyosa and Pollop as well as the resident ones. Before the procession many of the band members were lubricating their throats at the bars around the square!

Before the canons and fireworks could be set off the fire brigade had to be in attendance - and sure enough they arrived, strutting their stuff - mind you, there was no sign of any hoses or water....

They had a quick meeting before the Mayor and entourage arrived to witness the setting off. The canon fire was so loud you could feel the ground underneath your feet vibrating - then the fireworks started! All you could really see was lots and lots of smoke and the sound of them shooting up.