Hogueras de San Juan 2025 in Alicante: Everything you need to know

Looking for a unique cultural experience this summer? Then you can’t miss the Hogueras de San Juan festival in Alicante! This spectacular event, held every year from June 20 to 24, attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Key dates and events

June 17: Assembly of the “Identidad” hoguera in Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
June 18: Assembly of the official children’s hogueras, including “H2O” by artist Sergio Gómez.
June 20: Start of the festivities with the “Plantà,” when the monumental figures are set in place.
June 21–22: Floral offering to the Virgen del Remedio, Alicante’s patron saint.
June 21: 23:00: Drone show above the Ocean Race zone in the harbor.
June 23: International folkloric parade with music, dance, and colorful costumes.
June 24: The festival’s highlight with the “Cremà,” when the hogueras go up in flames.
Note: on June 24 all shops, etc. are closed!

What are the Hogueras de San Juan festivities?

Hogueras de San Juan 2025 Alicante is a colorful festival that lights up the streets of Alicante with breathtaking fireworks, brilliant papier‑mâché sculptures, and traditional parades. Read on to discover the history, highlights, and the best tips for an unforgettable experience — enjoying the Hogueras festivities in Alicante like a true local.

Hogueras isn’t just any festival; it’s a tradition in Alicante dating back to the early 20th century. Each year, impressive works of art made of wood and papier‑mâché are created and exhibited in the streets. On the festival’s final night these monumental artworks are burned during the spectacular “Cremà,” symbolizing purification of the old and the welcoming of the new. Below you can see where to be on which date! Officially, Hogueras runs from June 20 to 24, but throughout June you’ll already find preparations and festivities everywhere.

Tip: Expect extreme crowds — especially in the evenings.

Tip 1: View the figures (ninots) and monuments

From June 19 the entire city is built up with papier‑mâché figures. You can compare them to Dutch Carnival floats. A chosen theme is used to poke fun at something or highlight a topic. These monuments are meters high. It’s impressive to see how they’re painted. Do you speak a bit of Spanish but still can’t make sense of the explanatory signs? That’s possible. The first language listed is usually Valencian. These “Hogueras” remain in place until the night of June 24, when they’re set on fire.

What : View Spanish Hogueras figures

When : The week of June 20–24 (and after that there are four more days of fireworks every evening at midnight)

Where : All over Alicante center. The largest figures are in the Town Hall square, on Avenida Alfonso el Sabio, along the Explanada, and at the old bus station, Plaza Séneca.

Tip 2: Experience the Midsummer Night of San Juan

On the night of June 23 to 24, Spain celebrates “midsummer night,” called “Noche de San Juan” in Alicante. It’s celebrated along the entire coast up to Valencia. There are bonfires everywhere on the beach — the only night of the year when this is allowed. Spanish families set up full garden sets, barbecues, and tents. There’s music, drinks, and above all lots of food and laughter. Tradition says you jump over the little fires (once they’ve died down a bit, of course…) to bring luck and prosperity. And that’s gone pretty well so far. Because if you want to kick off your summer right, you should obviously be in Alicante!

What : Noche de San Juan

When : Evening of June 23

Where : Along the entire coastline.

Traveling to the center by tram? Then check the adjusted routes and departure times in English here!

Tip 3: The night of your life

Burning of the ninot monuments on the Town Hall square, June 24

On June 24 at midnight all the monuments are set on fire! This is coordinated by the Spanish fire brigade. The most impressive spot is the Town Hall square. Everyone shouts at the firefighters (words I can’t type here — not exactly polite). Then the firefighters turn the big hose on the crowd and soak everyone. Buckets of water are thrown from balconies and it’s one big party. In the Netherlands this would have been banned long ago, but in Spain this is still allowed. You truly can’t miss it.

Tip : Going here? Expect massive crowds and to get drenched. Tip: bring a waterproof phone pouch. And avoid clothes that catch fire easily, like synthetic fabrics.

Tip 4: Eating and drinking in the city

Want to explore Alicante’s culinary scene during Hogueras? It’s probably not the best time. It’s so busy that without a reservation you won’t get in anywhere. During these days it’s common to eat on the street at one of the stalls, giant paellas, or food stands. You’ll find them all over the city.

Recommendation: Not in town during Hogueras, but you love great food? Then download my Culinary Alicante guide. You’ll discover addresses you wouldn’t find yourself — finger‑licking good! Alicante is more than just paella!

A typical Alicante dish for the festivities

Coca amb tonyina is a traditional dish from Alicante eaten especially during Hogueras de San Juan. It’s a savory pastry filled with tuna, onion, and pine nuts — simple yet full of flavor and history. This coca is often eaten cold and is perfect to take to the fireworks or street parties. During Hogueras it simply belongs — just like the fire, the music, and the mascletàs. Try one from a local bakery — they’re the best!

Tip 5: Drone show — June 21

Hogueras looks to the skies on Saturday, June 21, with a drone show in Alicante’s harbor. The Generalitat Valenciana organizes this event titled “Wild Nature,” visible from docks 10 and 12 and from the Volvo area in the harbor, at 23:00. Note: arrive early. The area isn’t huge and it’s almost impossible to reach the city by car at that hour. And there are huge crowds!

Tip 6: The best accommodations during Hogueras

Still looking for a place to stay during the festival weeks? Make sure you stay as central as possible, in a hotel with good sound insulation. That’s the ideal.

1) The best hotel is Eurostars Mediterranea on the Town Hall square. You’ll be in the perfect spot on the night of June 24–25. This is where the fire brigade — under expert supervision — sets the city’s largest figure on fire and sprays the crowd with water.

2) Want to stay right in the center but be sure of a quiet room? Book a renovated room at the Meliá in the harbor. It’s in the middle of the center, close to all festivities, the figures, and the fireworks above the castle. A lovely stay guaranteed.

3) Low budget for the Alicante festivities? Book a room at Antonio Guesthouse Alicante . Close to everything, a neat room with all facilities. Located on a side street that’s just a bit quieter at night during Hogueras than the main street (Avenida Alfonso el Sabio).

Don’t miss a thing during Hogueras de San Juan 2025! Book your accommodation and experience Alicante’s biggest festival. Book your stay via Alicante Like a Local so you won’t miss anything and you’ll be in the best locations in the city. Book here

4) Prefer staying outside the city but still want to take in the festivities? Book a room at the Alicante Golf hotel. The beach is within walking distance, there’s a gym and nightlife right out front, a large park, and a big, lovely pool. In short: recommended!

5) Another accommodation suitable for a family is Apartamentos Bárbara 3. This apartment complex lies in the middle of Alicante’s nightlife district, so you can head straight downstairs into the action, yet still have a quiet room with all facilities. Suitable for families with older children, or for a quick city trip.

6) Prefer watching the fireworks from your balcony with a drink, instead of standing in the crowds in the center? Then definitely book a room at Meliá Gran Sol. Ask for a room on the highest floor. Want to double your enjoyment? Get up early — you’ll see the sun rise over the sea. Then have breakfast on the top floor for a view of the entire coastline of Alicante.

Want to book a room in Alicante? I’d really appreciate it if you do so via the link in this blog. It helps me keep the site and the app running and continue sharing information about Alicante.

Key dates and events

Friday, June 6:

19:30: Desfile del Pregón (parade).
21:00: Official opening with the pregón by Rubén Hernández on Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

Saturday, June 7:
19:00: Desfile del Ninot (parade of the ninots).

Tuesday, June 17:

23:30: Arribada del Foc (arrival of the fire) at El Corte Inglés.

Wednesday, June 18:

14:00: Start of the official mascletà competition at Plaza de los Luceros.

Friday, June 20:

00:01: Plantà of the adult hogueras and barracas.
09:00: Jury evaluation of the children’s hogueras.
14:00: Mascletà competition at Plaza de los Luceros.
20:30: Opening of barracas and racós.

Saturday, June 21:

09:00: Jury evaluation of the adult hogueras.
14:00: Mascletà competition at Plaza de los Luceros.
18:30: First floral offering to the Virgen del Remedio.
23:00: Drone show above the Ocean Race zone in the harbor.

Sunday, June 22:

11:00: Prize ceremony and parade from City Hall.
14:00: Mascletà competition at Plaza de los Luceros.
18:30: Second floral offering to the Virgen del Remedio.

Monday, June 23:

14:00: Mascletà competition at Plaza de los Luceros.
19:00: Dansa d’Alacant on Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
20:00: International folkloric parade.

Tuesday, June 24: Public holiday — everything closed

14:00: Final mascletà of the competition at Plaza de los Luceros.
00:00: Launch of the Monumental Palmera from Monte Benacantil — an enormous fireworks display.
From 00:00: La Nit de la Cremà — the burning of the hogueras.

For the full program and any updates, visit the official website of Hogueras de Alicante.

Not in Alicante during Hogueras? But still want the very best tips to make your Alicante holiday unforgettable? Then download my Alicante Digital Travel Guide.

Frequently asked questions about Hogueras de San Juan (FAQ)

Where is the best place to rent a car?

Renting a car to get into the city? Reserve one with Sunny Cars. No hassle, just a good rental car. Is Hogueras fun with children?

Want to view the figures with children? Go early in the morning — it’s less crowded then. Is it very hot in the city?

Bring a hat for the heat. It’s scorching in the city and if you plan to walk around to see the figures, it’s wise to protect yourself from the intense heat shimmering through the streets. How many people come to Hogueras?

Last year there were more than a million visitors during Hogueras de San Juan in Alicante. Be prepared for extreme crowds. Do I need tickets for Hogueras events?

Most events, like the parades and the burning, are free to attend. For special grandstands or VIP areas you may need tickets.

What time does the Cremà start during Hogueras de San Juan?

The Cremà — the burning of the hogueras — takes place on June 24 at midnight (00:00) at various locations throughout the city.

Which dishes and drinks are typical during Hogueras de San Juan?

Popular treats include coca amb tonyina (tuna pastry), bacores (early figs), and horchata (a plant‑based drink).

What is the meaning of Hogueras de San Juan?

Hogueras de San Juan, with its fire, parades, and traditions, symbolizes burning the old to make way for the new — a perfect start to summer!

Can I combine Hogueras de San Juan with a holiday?

Absolutely! Many visitors plan their holiday around Hogueras de San Juan to experience both the festival and the beach parties of the Costa Blanca. Check out the nicest accommodations here.

Hogueras de San Juan 2025 Alicante Program