Alicante festival ends in record heat
The 2025 Hogueras de San Juan festival in Alicante concluded amid record-breaking heat and unprecedented crowds. Despite temperatures soaring to a high of 32.9°C, over two million people participated in the city's most significant celebration, which honors the summer solstice with fire, art, and tradition.
The festival culminated with the "Nit de la Cremà" on the night of June 24-25, where 180 monumental bonfires were ignited across 90 districts. The event commenced with the launch of the iconic "Palmera" firework from the Santa Bárbara Castle, followed by the burning of the official bonfires "Identidad" and "H2O," lit by the Belleas del Foc, Adriana Vico and Valentina Tárraga.
To ensure safety during the festivities, a substantial security operation was deployed, comprising 180 firefighters and 340 police officers. The traditional "banyà," where firefighters spray water over the crowds, provided a refreshing relief from the intense heat.
In a heartfelt tribute, the final "mascletà" (a daytime fireworks display) honored the late pyrotechnician Pedro Luis Sirvent, who tragically passed away in March. His company, Hermanos Sirvent, concluded the competition with a display that moved the audience to chant, "Luceros no truena, te aplaude" ("Luceros doesn't thunder, it applauds you").
Due to the prohibition of bonfires on Alicante's beaches, many revelers relocated to nearby El Campello, leading to overcrowded beaches and traffic congestion. Despite the challenges, the night proceeded with minimal incidents, and cleanup crews collected approximately 60 tons of waste by dawn.
The Hogueras de San Juan festival, declared of International Tourist Interest, continues to be a vibrant celebration of Alicante's cultural heritage, drawing visitors from around the world to partake in its unique blend of fire, music, and community spirit.
