Bonfires of St. Juan
Alicante’s big festival, known as Bonfires of St. Juan, is an event of International Tourist Interest. It is held every year from 20 to 24 June, and its roots go back to the custom of getting rid of old objects with the arrival of the solstice. During these dates, the streets of Alicante are transformed into a colourful spectacle of light and music, with street parties, parades and a festive atmosphere that attracts thousands of people, both residents and travellers from far and wide.
The culmination of this celebration is the Bonfires, monuments that can reach 12 metres in height and combine painting and sculpture to bring satirical scenes to life. Made from wood, cork and other materials, these figures, called ninots, usually represent critical or ironic aspects of society. Each commission has a budget and competes for originality and artistic quality before a specialised jury. Only one of the ninots is spared from the flames, the so-called ‘ninot indultat’, chosen by popular vote.
The festival ends with the Cremà, when the Bonfires burn under the watchful eye of thousands of spectators. The flames symbolise renewal and the start of the summer season, leaving behind a firework display full of emotion and joy.
In addition to these monumental creations, the festival includes mascletàs, parades and a festive atmosphere that fills every corner of the city.
