The Costa Blanca in Spain is known for its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. And there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than by attending the Fogueres de Sant Joan Festival in Javea.
What is Fogueres de Sant Joan, you ask? Well, it is a traditional festival that takes place every year on June 23rd, the eve of the feast of Saint John the Baptist. This festival has its roots in pagan celebrations and honors the arrival of summer with fire, music, and dancing.
Javea, a picturesque coastal town in the province of Alicante, is the perfect setting for this lively festival. The town is divided into three main areas, each with its own unique festivities. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect to experience at the Fogueres de Sant Joan Festival.
The Bonfires
One of the most striking features of this festival is the bonfires, or “fogueres” in Valencian. These bonfires are lit in the streets and squares of Javea and are an essential part of the celebrations. According to tradition, jumping over the flames of the bonfires purifies the soul and brings good luck for the rest of the year.
The Burning of the Fogueres
The highlight of the festival is the burning of the fogueres. These are large papier-mâché figures that are created to represent different aspects of society, such as politicians, celebrities, and current events. The burning of the fogueres symbolizes the destruction of the old to make way for the new. It’s a spectacular sight to see these giant figures engulfed in flames, accompanied by music and cheers from the crowd.
The Fireworks
What’s a festival without fireworks? The Fogueres de Sant Joan Festival does not disappoint in this aspect. The sky above Javea is lit up with a dazzling display of fireworks, adding to the already electric atmosphere of the festival.
The Street Processions
Throughout the festival, there are several street processions that take place, each with its own unique theme and traditional costumes. The “Bando de la Huerta” procession showcases traditional Valencian attire, while the “Moors and Christians” procession represents the town’s history and battles against the Moors.
The Music and Dancing
No festival is complete without music and dancing, and the Fogueres de Sant Joan Festival is no exception. Live