Les Hoguera de Sant Joan (Bonfires of Saint John) is a traditional celebration in the city of Alicante, held annually around June 24th, in honor of the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. The festival is one of the most significant and vibrant events in the region, attracting both locals and tourists for its spectacular fireworks, bonfires, parades, and parties. Here’s an overview of the celebration:

Key Elements of Les Hoguera de Sant Joan in Alicante:
1. Bonfires (Hogueras)

The central theme of the festival is the construction and burning of large, elaborately designed "hogueras" (bonfires) made from wood and papier-mâché. These sculptures can reach several meters in height and often depict satirical or humorous figures, political personalities, or cultural icons.
The bonfires are created by local "falla" commissions, similar to the traditions of Las Fallas in Valencia, and they are placed in various districts of the city. The burning of these sculptures symbolizes the purging of bad things from the past year and the welcoming of the summer season.
2. Fireworks and Pyrotechnics

Throughout the festival, fireworks displays light up the sky, with the highlight being the Nit de la Cremà (Night of the Burning), which occurs on the night of June 24th. On this night, the bonfires are set ablaze in a dramatic show of fire and light, accompanied by firecrackers and explosions.
Alicante’s fireworks are particularly famous, and it’s one of the best places in Spain to experience the art of pyrotechnics.
3. The Parade

The celebration kicks off with a grand parade, where local people, dressed in traditional costumes, march through the streets with music and dance. The parade features "Belleses del Foc" (Beauties of the Fire), who are crowned as queens of the festivities and play an important symbolic role in the event.
4. La Nit de la Cremà

The “Nit de la Cremà” (Night of the Burning), which takes place on the night of June 24th, is the most significant moment of the festival. All the bonfires are set on fire and reduced to ashes in a dramatic spectacle. It’s a breathtaking display of light, flames, and emotion, marking the grand finale of the festival.
5. Traditional Music and Dance

The city fills with traditional music, including the sound of the "ronda" (a type of folk music played by brass bands). Locals often gather in the streets to sing and dance, particularly in the squares where the bonfires are set up.
6. **The "Mascletà"

A key part of the celebration is the "mascletà", a daytime pyrotechnic event, held every day at 2 PM, where large fireworks are set off in a synchronized display of sound and light. This event is famous for its deep, resonant sound that echoes through the city, creating an intense sensory experience.
7. Traditional Foods and Drinks

During the festivities, people enjoy local food and drinks, with specialties like turrón (a type of nougat), horchata (a sweet drink made from tiger nuts), and buñuelos (fried doughnuts). There are also plenty of stalls offering cold beers and cocktails, making it a lively, social event.
Cultural Significance
Les Hoguera de Sant Joan has been celebrated for centuries and is recognized as a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest. It not only marks the arrival of summer but also serves as a way for the people of Alicante to come together, celebrate their community spirit, and honor their cultural heritage.
The festival’s theme of fire has both a symbolic and historical connection to the ancient belief that fire has cleansing powers. The bonfires, with their burning of the past year’s "bad luck," reflect a ritual that celebrates renewal and hope for the future.
When to Visit
If you're planning to visit Alicante to experience Les Hoguera de Sant Joan, the festival typically runs for several days leading up to June 24th. The busiest days are the final days of the festival, with the Nit de la Cremà on the night of June 24th being the climactic point.
How to Experience It
Stay in the city center to be close to the bonfires and major events.
Walk through the districts where each "hoguera" is set up to see the diverse artistic designs and attend the various street parties.
Make sure to experience the fireworks and firecracker displays, but be prepared for large crowds and loud sounds.
For a quieter experience, enjoy a traditional meal or sunset by the beach, as the city also has beautiful coastal views.

свернуть