Fogueres de Sant Joan (Alacant)

The Fogueres de Sant Joan are Alicante's great fire festival, recognised as a Festival of International Tourist Interest, held from 20 to 24 June, with the Cremà on the night of the 24th. For those days the city fills with satirical sculptures of cardboard and wood that all burn at once.

What it is

Each neighbourhood builds its own foguera: a temporary sculpture, often poking fun at current affairs, ringed by food stalls and street parties. It shares its origins with the Fallas of València, but the Alicante bonfire has its own character, tied to the summer solstice. You can place it in the festivals calendar.

What to see and do

Mornings bring the mascletàs in Plaza de los Luceros. At midnight on the 24th the palmera de fuego is fired from Santa Bárbara castle: more than a thousand rockets at once, their light opening over the city and giving the signal for the Cremà. Then everything burns. People traditionally head to Postiguet beach, where many jump the waves on Saint John's night.

Tips

• Book accommodation weeks ahead.
• For the Cremà, grab a spot early and wear comfortable shoes.
• Firefighters hose down the crowd in the banyà: you will get soaked.

If you pair it with the coast, check the area's beaches and the day-trip ideas.

Frequently asked questions

When is it?

From 20 to 24 June every year, with the Cremà on the night of the 24th. For this year's times, check the agenda.

Is it free?

Yes. Watching the bonfires, the mascletàs and the Cremà is free in the street; you only pay if you eat or drink at the stalls.

Where is the best place to be?

The centre and Plaza de los Luceros for mascletàs and sculptures; Postiguet beach for the midnight bonfires.