Three years of quiet had stretched into an expectation that refused to fade. Now the moment has arrived to feel the rush again—gunpowder, light, music, tradition, dreams, gastronomy, color, art, noise, and above all, the thrill of celebration. This year, San Juan’s Bonfires stand as a beacon, representing the cleansing power of fire and a collective exhale after the pandemic’s grip. Each participant may cast away troubling memories and uncertainties into the flames of Nit de la Cremá, the shortest night of the year, to emerge with renewed strength and spirit.
This return promises not to leave anyone indifferent. The city is thirsty for bonfires, for fun, for carefree moments, and for the rewards that come with normalcy—restored traditions, lively festivities, and warm, fog-kissed friendships.
Alicante will present its strongest promotional image to the world during these days. A diverse, international audience will share the city, and to ensure that everyone can enjoy safely, an extraordinary safety framework has been put in place.
Emergency and Civil Protection personnel will supervise this safety framework for the San Juan Bonfires, supported by more than 2,000 personnel drawn from national, regional, and local security forces, along with firefighters and health professionals. This robust presence is designed to keep the celebrations smooth and secure.
Two focal points will receive special attention: the coordination of security forces and the prevention of alcohol consumption by minors in racos, with dedicated information points known as purple dots that address sexist violence during the festivities, established by the Alicante City Council.
From these pages, the quiet but essential labor of many individuals shines through. Their professional dedication ensures the city runs as normal as possible, with state security forces, firefighters, emergency personnel, health workers, and Civil Protection all playing indispensable roles in keeping bonfires safe.
To illustrate the scale of the security operation, the National Police Provincial Station in Alicante will allocate radio patrol vehicles to Citizens’ Attention Groups tasked with preventing crime and delivering first aid. Operational Response Groups will be positioned at times and places of greatest need; Prevention and Response Units will maintain public order in the face of any disturbances; the Mobile Transportation Brigade will handle transportation hubs; and Motorcycle Units will respond rapidly across most locations. Additional support will come from an Aircraft Service (helicopter) and the Security and Airborne Protection Service (drone and anti-drone), along with the Cavalry Corps and a specialized Dog Guides Unit and TEDAX.
For its part, the Civil Guard will deploy Arms Intervention agents to monitor masks, safety barriers, and fireworks sales booths, as well as Maritime Service and Traffic Sub-Sector personnel to manage access to the capital.
Regarding Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Services, 150 firefighters and most of the operable fleet, including 29 vehicles, will be active on the cremá night, ready to respond to any fire-related needs.
Finally, heartfelt respect is offered to all who contribute to the artistry and craft of these celebrations—barracks staff, foggers, pyrotechnicians, Fallas artists, belles, and all who dedicate themselves to this festive work year after year. Bonfire celebrations depend on their commitment.
It is hoped that residents and visitors alike experience these unique festivities with passion and responsibility. The magnificent monuments and the hypnotic allure of fire create a lasting impression, inviting anyone who comes to the city to become captivated by the mystique of the San Juan Bonfires.