ARCHIVED - 3,000 bags of lucky grapes will be handed out in Alicante city centre on New Years Eve

December 31 festivities will take place in Alicante's Town Hall Square from 10.30am until 4am the following morning

Eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve is a long-held tradition in Spain with a grape eaten for each chime is believed to ensure a prosperous and lucky year ahead.

And in Alicante city centre, more than 3,000 bags of the 'lucky' fruit will be distributed between the Children’s Cotillion, from 10,30am to 1pm and ahead of the New Year’s Eve musical show which will end at 4am the following morning.

During the first distribution, 990 bags containing a dozen grape-shaped gluten-free jelly beans will be handed out to the little ones to celebrate New Year’s Eve early when the clock on the facade of the Town Hall strikes midday.

There will also be a children's musical show by 'The Troupers' with jugglers acrobats and trapeze artists. Ten large inflatables will be located around the square, as well as 'superhero performances'.

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And there will be a 360º photocall opportunity.

New Year's Eve celebrations for adults will then get underway from 10pm, with grapes handed out from 11pm, and music provided by the Alicante orchestra 'Etiqueta Show'.

As for the technical equipment, there will be 24,000 W of sound and spectacular robotic lighting, special effects and a 24m2 rear LED screen.

The Association of Local Restoration and Leisure of Alicante (ALROA) will be in charge of running bars, and 75% of the proceeds will go to APSA.

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Image: Ayuntamiento de Alicante