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The „Nit de Sant Joan“, the shortest night of the year, is traditionally celebrated on 23 June - with wave rituals, music, picnics and bonfires. However, many coastal communities along the Costa Blanca are now enforcing strict bans: Private fires on the beach are largely prohibited in the Marina Alta and Marina Baixa for safety and environmental reasons.
Some places allow official fire pits or communally organised hogueras under certain conditions, but spontaneous fires with friends and bread on a stick are history in many places in 2025.
The city of Dénia has clearly prohibited the lighting of any fires on beaches - barbecues, candles and torches are also taboo. The police will step up their checks from the early evening. There is also a general ban in Xàbia (Jávea) - offences can be punished with fines of up to 750 euros.
In Calpe, Benissa and Moraira, there is also no authorisation for private fires, even if individual symbolic hoguera ceremonies are held in a communal setting. Anyone celebrating on the beach there should limit themselves to picnics and midnight bathing - open flames are not permitted.
Some municipalities allow controlled fireplaces or communal campfires:
In Albir (municipality of L'Alfàs del Pi), a central, authorised beach bonfire is lit - private fires are not permitted here either.
Finestrat organises an official hoguera at the cala, supervised by municipal staff.
Public Sant Joan celebrations are also held in Villajoyosa and Benidorm, but even there the rule is: no private bonfires without authorisation.
Most communities rely on symbolic rituals:
→ Jumping seven waves at midnight, whispering wishes or symbolically letting go of old things - this is allowed and appreciated in many places.
→ Many chiringuitos and beach bars also organise special events for the Nit de Sant Joan - without bonfires, but with music, food and fellowship.
| Location | Private fires allowed on the beach? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dénia | ❌ forbidden | Police surveillance |
| Xàbia | ❌ forbidden | Fine up to 750 € |
| Calpe | ❌ forbidden | No exceptions |
| Moraira | ❌ forbidden | Official ceremonies only |
| Benissa | ❌ forbidden | No fire zones |
| Albir (L'Alfàs) | ✅ Central Hoguera | No private fire |
| Villajoyosa | ❌ forbidden | Official events only |
| Benidorm | ❌ forbidden | Public celebration without fire |
| Finestrat | ✅ on the cala, communal | Permitted under supervision |
Even without fire, the Nit de Sant Joan a magical evening. If you want to celebrate on the coast, you should find out about the applicable rules from the respective municipality in advance - and enjoy the summer with consideration and caution.