In 2026, the organizers of the Hogueras festival have something special in store: for the first time, the traditional gatherings of adult contestants will take place not in the Alicante area, but in Toledo. Known for its rich history and unique blend of cultures, the city will host the candidates for the title of Bellea del Foc. Previously, participants and their families traveled only as far as neighboring regions, but this time they’ll have to cover more than 400 kilometers.
The announcement of these changes was made during the Fogueres en Nadal dinner, which brought together over a thousand guests. Among those in attendance were Alicante mayor Luis Barcala, the president of the Fogueres Federation David Olivares, as well as commission representatives and members of the municipality. It was at this event that it was revealed the future contenders for the Bellea del Foc title will spend their group retreat in Toledo from April 10 to 12.
A new route
In recent years, the gatherings were held in cities closer to Alicante: Murcia in 2024 and Albacete in 2025. Now, relatives and friends will have to embark on a much longer journey to support the contestants in Toledo. For many, this will be a real adventure: the drive will take several hours, and train travelers will need to change trains in Madrid.
Meanwhile, there will be no changes for the younger contestants—their gathering will still take place in Benidorm, which is much closer to Alicante. So, in 2026, the adult and children’s groups will find themselves in different cities.
Plans and events
A variety of events are planned in Toledo as part of the program. The centerpiece will be a monument created by Alicante artist José Manuel García Esquiva, known as Pachi. His project was selected by a jury made up of Federation representatives, artists, and tourism experts. A total of €24,000 has been allocated for the creation and transport of the monument.
The theme of the composition will be the phrase “Sentir de día, vivir de noche” (“Feel by day, live by night”). The structure will feature symbols of the sun and moon at its center, while scenes around the perimeter will depict the province’s most renowned festivals, including Moros y Cristianos and Semana Santa.
Ceremonial program
Over the course of three days, the candidates will not only get to know each other but also take part in a festive concert and parade through the streets of Toledo. This will give locals a chance to learn about the traditions of Alicante, while the participants will have an opportunity to impress the jury. The jury’s composition is still under wraps and will be revealed only after the New Year holidays.
Another important part of the program will be the selection of a venue for the Candidates’ Gala, which has not yet been decided. The Federation has suggested holding it on Avenida de la Estación, but a final decision is still pending. The Bellea del Foc 2026 Gala will take place on May 2nd at the Plaza de Toros, with the candidates’ gathering scheduled for April 25th.
Words from the organizers
The President of the Federation, David Olivares, emphasized that it is the participants and volunteers who bring the festival to life and make it unique. According to him, Hogueras is not just a tradition, but an event that brings people together. The mayor of Alicante expressed confidence that the upcoming Hogueras will be the most vibrant in history.
Thus, in 2026, the Hogueras festival will go beyond its usual routes and explore new horizons. Toledo is preparing to welcome guests from Alicante, while the contestants look forward to new experiences and challenges on their way to the Bellea del Foc title.
