The Hogueras of Alicante: An Explosion of Fire, Tradition and Joy.
Alicante, the luminous city bathed by the Mediterranean, is not only famous for its beaches, its privileged climate and its gastronomy, but also for one of the most spectacular festivals in Spain: Las Hogueras de San Juan. This celebration, declared of International Tourist Interest, transforms the city into a stage of art, fire and music for several days, culminating in the Night of San Juan, a magical evening where the sea and the flames merge in an unparalleled spectacle.
History of Hogueras: A Legacy of Fire.
The Bonfires of Alicante have their roots in an ancestral tradition linked to the summer solstice. Since ancient times, on the night of June 23 to 24, bonfires were lit to purify and give strength to the sun, which from that day on began to “weaken”. However, the festival as we know it today was born at the beginning of the twentieth century.
It was in 1928 when José María Py from Alicante promoted the creation of artistic monuments made of cardboard and wood that, instead of simple piles of firewood, represented satirical scenes and criticism of society. These works, called “Bonfires”, are burned on the Night of the Cremà, symbolizing purification and renewal.
What Are Hogueras? Ephemeral Art on Fire .
The Hogueras are impressive structures made of wood, cardboard and paint, some more than 20 meters high, created by local artists (fallas artists). Every year, the different neighborhoods of Alicante compete to have the most spectacular bonfire, both in design and message. Many of them have a humorous or critical tone, reflecting political, social or cultural issues of the moment.
In addition to the large Bonfires, the ninots (individual figures that are part of the Bonfire) are also protagonists. One of them is saved from the flames thanks to the popular vote in the exhibition of the Museum of the Bonfires.
The Night of San Juan: Fire, Water and Magic.
Although the Bonfires are officially held from June 20 to 24, the real magic begins on the Night of San Juan (from the 23rd to the 24th). Thousands of locals and visitors gather at Postiguet Beach to experience a night full of rituals:
- Jumping the waves: According to tradition, jumping nine waves at midnight attracts luck and purifies the soul.
- Burning the bad: Many write down their desires or worries on a piece of paper and throw them into the fire.
- Bonfire on the sand: Small bonfires light up the beach while groups of friends celebrate with music and dancing.
The atmosphere is magical, with open-air concerts, open-air dances and food stalls where there is no shortage of coca buns (typical bread) and sangria.
Holidays: Music, Gunpowder and Barracas.
Bonfires are not just fire; they are days of continuous celebration. From June 20, the streets are filled with:
- Mascletàs: Rhythmic explosions of gunpowder that reverberate in the heart of Alicante. Fireworks castles light up the sky every night, especially at the International Fireworks Competition, where pyrotechnic companies compete for the best show.
- Barracas and verbenas: Each neighborhood installs its own barracas, tents where people dance, eat and drink until dawn. The closure of streets for these festivities creates a unique atmosphere of neighborhood coexistence.
- Offering to the Virgen del Remedio: Thousands of people, dressed in traditional costumes, parade bringing flowers to the patron saint of the city.
The Most Awaited Moment: The Cremà and the Fire Palm Tree.
On June 24, at midnight, all the Bonfires burn in an impressive spectacle. But the most exciting moment is the “Banyà”, when the firefighters put out the flames by spraying water, creating a rainbow of steam.
However, the finishing touch is the Palmera de Fuego, an incredible pyrotechnic castle that is launched from the Castle of Santa Barbara, illuminating the entire bay of Alicante. It is an instant that takes everyone’s breath away.
To live the Bonfires Like an Alicante.
For the people of Alicante, the Bonfires are much more than a party: they are days of family reunion, local pride and shared joy. The streets are full of life, children enjoy activities, and adults remember with nostalgia the bonfires of their youth.
Living in Spain is not only about enjoying the good weather, the beaches or the gastronomy, but also about feeling the passion of festivals like this one, where the best concerts, open-air dances and fireworks shows make Alicante a unique destination.
If you are looking for tranquility but without losing the charm of these traditions, at SILC ESTATES you can find your new build house close to the action, to enjoy the holidays whenever you want and relax at home when you prefer. Because living in Alicante is having the best of both worlds: the calm of the Mediterranean and the most ardent party of the summer.
Come and discover why the Bonfires of Alicante are an experience not to be forgotten! 🔥🎆
