Enjoy the Bonfires and the night San Juan

There are various opinions on what is the origin of the celebrations of San Juan (Saint John). However, for one reason or another, it's celebrated nearly enough the same way in different locations all around the world.

San Juan in Alicante

The bonfires of San Juan are the official celebrations of the city of Alicante. In the beginning farmers celebrated the arrival of summer with parties and bonfires in the streets year after year, which were forbidden by the City. Finally, in 1928, with the intention of attracting tourists, the City Council decreed to organize the first authorized bonfires of San Juan. Since then, year after year more bonfire committees are created by the different neighborhoods of the city and has become an international tourist attraction.

However, it is not necessary to travel to Alicante to enjoy this celebration. In Benidorm and Torrevieja, there is also tradition to celebrate the Bonfires of San Juan. Bonfires Commissions of different neighborhoods mount their bonfire and barrack and whoever can come and enjoy the festival, which ends on the night of the 24th of June with the "cremà" (burning) of the bonfires.

Night of San Juan

One of the most popular acts, apart from the "cremà" is the celebration of the Night of San Juan (between june 23rd and June 24th). The night before the burning of the bonfires, in the towns of the coast of Alicante its traditional to go to the beach, light small fires to burn the bad experiences and take a purifying bath at twelve o'clock at night. In some locations it is possible to enjoy fireworks and musical performances.

In addition, the more superstitious have a wide range of rituals for their desires: jump nine waves to get pregnant, write three wishes and throw into the sea, jump the fire to be protected during the year... Don't forget not to look in a mirror that night or the spell will have no effect.

Whether you intend to perform a ritual to fulfill your desires, as you just want to enjoy one of our most popular traditions, do not miss the opportunity to visit the bonfires, witness the "mascletàs" (lighting of the firecrackers) and take a night swim at our beaches.

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