Las Hogueras de San Juan Alicante Bonfires
Celebrate the arrival of summer in Alicante
Are you planning to visit Alicante, or are you currently staying in the capital of the Costa Blanca? If so, a spectacular experience awaits you in June: Las Hogueras de San Juan.
This is Alicante’s most important festival, a week of impressive monuments, deafening fireworks and emotional ceremonies. Every year, from June 20 to 24, Alicante comes alive with lights, color, music and fireworks.
In this article you will discover everything you need to know about Las Hogueras de San Juan, from its origins and significance to the main events and the full program of this festival.
Announcement Las Hogueras de San Juan 2025 in Alicante
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ToggleWhat is Las Hogueras de San Juan?
Las Hogueras de San Juan (Valencian: Les Fogueres de Sant Joan) is the official city festival of Alicante, declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. It is celebrated in honor of Saint John the Baptist(San Juan) and marks the arrival of summer.
The festivities culminate during the week of June 20 to 24, culminating in the Nit de la Cremà (Night of the Burning) on June 24, when hundreds of artistic, ephemeral (ephemeral) monuments(hogueras or fogueres) are set ablaze. Read the full program later in this article.
Combining sculpture and painting, these impressive works of art can grow up to 12 meters tall and are built with materials such as wood and cork. The creations, divided into different categories based on their budget, are judged on their creativity by a panel of judges before being burned.
Origins and tradition: from bonfires to monumental art
The tradition of Las Hogueras has its origins in the ancient custom of lighting bonfires to celebrate the longest day of the year and ward off evil by burning unwanted objects.
In 1928, the celebration took its current, more organized and artistic form, inspired in part by Las Fallas in Valencia, but with its own character.
José María Py y Ramírez de Cartagena is considered an important promoter of this modern form. In fact, he was the initiator and founder of the festival Las Hogueras de San Juan.
After living in Valencia for 25 years and becoming familiar with the Fallas festival there, he moved to Alicante in 1922. In 1928, at a meeting of Alicante-Atraction, he proposed to organize bonfires in Alicante similar to those in Valencia, but called Hogueras and centered around the feast of San Juan.
He became the first chairman of the management committee in 1930. Despite his noble lineage (Baron of Rosta through his mother), Py was known for his enthusiasm, selflessness and modesty.
José died on March 15, 1932, but his legacy lives on; since 1942, a street in Alicante has been named after him in honor of his crucial role in the creation of the great Alicante Festival.
More than just bonfires
Las Hogueras is much more than just the burning of statues. It is a deeply rooted cultural phenomenon that revolves around community spirit, satire, art and the celebration of life. Neighborhood associations(comisiones) work throughout the year to raise money and create their own hoguera and barraca (marquee). The monuments, made of wood and papier-mâché, are often satirical commentaries on current affairs, politics or local events.
The celebration symbolizes renewal: the old is burned to make way for the new. It is a week when the city buzzes with energy, music, color and togetherness.
The highlights of Las Hogueras
The week of Las Hogueras is packed with events. Here are the absolute must-sees:
- The “Pregón”: the official proclamation and opening of the fiesta;
- La Plantà (June 19-20): on the night of June 19-20, the large and children‘ s hogueras are officially erected and unveiled in the streets and squares. From this moment on, hundreds of colorful and often meter-high works of art adorn the city;
- Mascletàs (daily, often June 20-24 at 2 p.m.): a deafening spectacle of popping fireworks in the Plaza de los Luceros. What matters here is not the colors, but the rhythm and power of the explosions;
- Ofrenda de Flores (June 21 and 22): thousands of foguerers and barraquers in traditional costumes march through the city to offer flowers to the Virgen del Remedio, the patron saint of Alicante. The flowers form a gigantic colorful carpet;
- Parades and Folklore: in addition to this ceremony, other traditional parades and performances fill the streets:
- The Cabalgata del Ninot (Ninot Parade) is an important parade in which the various committees present their finest ninots before being included in the larger hoguera;
- Since the 15th century, nanos i gegants (dwarfs and giants) have been part of Alicante’s festivities. These giant figures parade through the streets, bringing joy and tradition;
- The traditional Valencian dance, known as les danses, adds a folkloric touch to the celebration. Performed in squares and streets during the festivities, it connects the people of Alicante to their cultural roots and offers a colorful and joyful spectacle.
- Nit de la Cremà (night of June 24-25): the absolute highlight. Beginning with a giant palm tree of fireworks displaying from the Castillo de Santa Bárbara is set off, after midnight all the hogueras in the city are set on fire. A unique part is the banyà (the bath), where firefighters wet the cheering crowd and burning monuments.
Traditional costume
The traditional costumes of the Hogueras de San Juan are a symbol of the tradition and splendor of these festivities in Alicante, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions.
- The Belleas del Foc (beauties of the fire) embody the spirit of the festival through their Valencian costumes. These include voluminous skirts, elaborate jewelry and traditional hairstyles that emphasize their central role in the festivities;
- Foguerer and Foguerera costumes: the representatives of each hoguera (bonfire group) wear traditional regional attire. Men wear close-fitting pants called zaragüelles, combined with a shirt, sash and embroidered vest. Women wear wide, flowing skirts known as faldas de fallera, along with a blouse, scarf or cape, and traditional hair accessories. This clothing serves as a symbol of pride and identity for Alicante residents.
Las Hogueras versus Las Fallas
Las Hogueras are often compared to Valencia’ s Las Fallas, and there are certainly similarities. Both celebrations revolve around the building and burning of monumental works of art(ninots), impressive fireworks, and tremendous community involvement.
The main differences are in the timing(Hogueras in June, Fallas in March), the name of the monuments and some specific traditions. The Bellea del Foc (Beauty of Fire) is the queen of the celebration in Alicante, while Valencia has its Fallera Mayor. The atmosphere in June, with the summer sun, also gives Las Hoguerasits own, warmer character, making, for example, the banyà during the Cremà possible and popular. Although inspired by Valencia, Alicante has developed its own proud festival.
Jumping over bonfires
Another beloved tradition inseparable from the Noche de San Juan (the night of June 23-24) and also alive in Alicante is jumping over bonfires. Although people naturally do not jump over the meters-high, burning monumental hogueras in the city, many locals and visitors head to the beaches, such as Postiguet and San Juan Playa. There they create smaller, private fires over which, they jump (often three or seven times). This provides purification, good luck and warding off evil.
Where and how do you experience Las Hogueras?
Las Hogueras takes place throughout the city of Alicante, but most of the major monuments and events are concentrated in the center.
- Monuments: hogueras (works of art made of papier-mâché) are scattered on streets and squares in the center and neighborhoods of Alicante. You can admire them everywhere while walking through the city;
- Barracas and Racós: these marquees and eating/drinking spots can be found in the various neighborhoods, usually near the hoguera monuments of the neighborhood associations. Sample the atmosphere at the public racós or accessible barracas (often later in the evening), or enjoy the fun from the street;
- Ofrenda de Flores: a floral procession passes through the center and ends at a large altar of flowers (often at the Concatedral de San Nicolás). Look along the route in the center or admire the end result at the altar;
- Mascletàs: these popping fireworks shows take place daily (usually around 2 p.m.) in the central Plaza de los Luceros. Be there early in/around the plaza for a good spot to watch and feel.
Most events are free to attend and view from the street.
Why are Las Hogueras so special?
- International recognition: it has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest, underscoring its cultural value and appeal;
- Living heritage: it is a tradition passed down from generation to generation, with young people learning the art of building hogueras and its rituals;
- Spectacular art: the hogueras are often true works of art, requiring months of preparation by specialized artists(artistes foguerers);
- Community spirit: it brings the whole city together in a collective celebration.
For lovers of culture, art, tradition and a good party, Las Hogueras is an absolute must.
Fine dining in Alicante, restaurant tips
Las Hogueras de San Juan is also a good time to try Alicante’s local cuisine. Typical dishes eaten during the fiesta include coca amb tonyina (a savory pie with tuna, onion and pine nuts) and bacores (early figs).
Tip: check out a list of the best restaurants in Alicante here
In addition, the city’s many restaurants and tapas bars serve other local specialties. Popular are rice dishes (such as arroz a banda or paella), fresh fish and seafood, and local wines. A practical tip: reserve a table in advance, especially if you want to eat in the center. That way you can relax and enjoy your meal amid the festive atmosphere.
Las Hogueras de San Juan is an important cultural festival for Alicante. It is known for the large, homemade monuments, the loud banging fireworks shows(mascletàs) and the special night when these monuments are burned (the Cremà).
This celebration celebrates the community, local art, traditions and the beginning of summer. The combination of the fireworks, ceremonies and general atmosphere make a visit to Alicante during Las Hogueras a special experience.
Atmosphere impression of Las Hogueras de San Juan
Full program Las Hogueras de San Juan
Below is the detailed program for Las Hogueras de San Juan in Alicante 2025:
Saturday, June 7:
- 19:00 – Cabalgata del Ninot(Ninot parade
- Route: Alfonso el Sabio → Rambla de Méndez Núñez → Calle Altamira → Plaza del Ayuntamiento City Hall Square
Sunday, June 8:
- 14:00 – Mascletà “Pólvora to l’any” popping fireworks show
- Location: Puerta de Alicante
Saturday, June 14:
- 14:00 – Mascletà
- Location: Gran Vía, near Plaza Agatángelo Soler
- 18:30 – Entry of Bands and Commissions Entrada de Bandas y Comisiones
- Route: Plaza de los Luceros → Alfonso el Sabio → Rambla de Méndez Núñez → Calle Rafael Altamira → Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Sunday, June 15:
- 17:00 – Closing of Ninot exhibition and counting of votes
- Location: Exhibition Hall La Lonja
Tuesday, June 17:
- 23:00 – Arribada del Foc Arrival of the Fire
- Fireworks show at the intersection of Avenida Maisonnave and Calle Churruca at El Corte Inglés.
Wednesday, June 18:
- 14:00 – Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros Pirotecnia Crespo
- 21:00 – Opening of the Hogueras market Mercadito de Fogueres on Paseo Federico Soto.
Thursday, June 19:
- 14:00 – Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros (Pirotecnia Turis)
- 00:00 – Official construction Plantà of the children’s hogueras and the ‘Ninots de Carrer’
Friday, June 20:
- 09:00 – Jury visit to the children’s hogueras
- 14:00 – Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros(Pirotecnia Ferrández)
- 17:00 – Announcement of prizes for the children’s hogueras
- 20:30 – Official opening of the Barracas and Racós(marquees).
- 00:00 – Official set-up Plantà of the adult hogueras
Saturday, June 21:
- 09:00 – Jury visit to the Hogueras and Barracas
- 14:00 – Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros Pirotecnia Alto Palancia
- 17:00 – Awards ceremony for the Hogueras, Barracas and decorated streets
- 18:00 – Flower Offering to the Virgin Ofrenda de Flores, Part 1
- 22:00 – Verbenas (Street parties) in the various neighborhoods
Sunday, June 22:
- 11:00 – Parade of awards ceremony
- 13:00 – Parade of the Nanos i Gegants (Giants and Grand Heads)
- 14:00 – Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros Pirotecnia Fuegos Artificiales del Mediterráneo
- 18:00 – Flower Offering to the Virgin Ofrenda de Flores, Part 2
- 22:00 – Verbenas (Street parties)
Monday, June 23(St. John’s Eve):
- 12:00 – Prize-giving ceremony for the Flower Offering at the Mercadito
- 13:00 – Parade of the Nanos i Gegants
- 14:00 – Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros (Hermanos Ferrández).
- 19:00 – Dansà d’Alacant traditional dance in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento
- 20:00 – International Folkloric Parade
- Route: Plaza de los Luceros → Alfonso el Sabio → Rambla de Méndez Núñez
- 22:00 – Verbenas (Street parties)
Tuesday, June 24(St. John’s Day):
- 13:00 – Parade of the Nanos i Gegants
- 14:00 – Grand Mascletà at Plaza de los Luceros Pirotecnia Hermanos Sirvent
- 20:00 – Official Mass in the Concatedral de San Nicolás
- 22:00 – Verbenas Street parties
- 00:00 – Palmera large fireworks display from Mount Benacantil, followed by the Nit de la Cremà (Night of Burning), which starts with the burning of the official Hoguera in City Hall Square.
June 25 to 29 – Fireworks competition on the beach:
- Every evening at 00:00: big fireworks show from the Postiguet beach.
- June 25: Pirotecnia Turis
- June 26: Fuegos Artificiales del Mediterráneo
- June 27: Pirotecnia Ferrández
- June 28: Pirotecnia Gironina
- June 29: Pirotecnia Hermanos Sirvent
- June 29 at 8 p.m. – Coso Multicolor Parade – A large, colorful float parade with confetti.
- Route: from Plaza de los Luceros on the Avenida Alfonso el Sabio.
Glossary of Festival Terms
- Hoguera: literally: bonfire
- A large, artistic monument made of wood and papier-mâché depicting a satirical or allegorical theme;
- Ninot: a loose doll or figure that is part of a Hoguera. Through a public vote, one Ninot is saved from burning, the Ninot Indultat;
- Mascletà: a deafening daytime fireworks spectacle centered on the rhythm and buildup of explosions;
- Plantà: literally: planting
- The night when the great Hogueras are officially built and completed in the plazas and intersections.
- Cremà: literally: the combustion
- The spectacular conclusion on June 24, where all the Hogueras in the city go up in flames.
- Barraca / Racó: a type of marquee or open-air community center of an association, where members and guests eat, drink and party;
- Cabalgata: a parade or procession;
- Ofrenda de Flores: an emotional ceremony in which thousands of people in traditional costumes offer flowers to the Virgin of Remedy, the city’s patron saint;
- Nanos i Gegants: a parade of giant dolls and “big-headed” dolls with huge heads;
- Palmera: literally: palm tree
- A gigantic white fireworks arrow set off from Castle Mountain as the starting signal for the Cremà.
More tips for your visit to Alicante
Publication date:
22 May 2025
Publication date: 22 May 2025
Updated on:
5 January 2026
Updated on: 5 January 2026
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