San Martín de Valdeiglesias, a municipality in Madrid’s Sierra Oeste still recovering from a wildfire that burned more than 27,000 hectares, has confirmed it will go ahead with a large fireworks display during its patronal festivities from 2 to 13 September. The announcement has drawn strong criticism from opposition parties and residents, who point to the continuing high fire risk and the visible scars left by the blaze.
The local council, governed by the Partido Popular (PP), says the fireworks show is a longstanding tradition and a major draw for visitors. Officials say pirotecnia Vulcano will organize the event in the urban center at the Castillo de la Coracera. They also note that the show has caused no fires in its four-decade history, though it will be cancelled if wind conditions are considered unsafe.
Those assurances have done little to ease concerns. PSOE spokesperson Luis Haro has called the 229,900-euro budget for bullfighting events unnecessary, especially given the town’s current economic challenges. Local businesses have seen a sharp drop in visitors this August, while the Pantano de San Juan’s chiringuitos remain closed and the local economy stagnates during a period when it typically thrives. The council estimates the festivities could generate up to 1.2 million euros in revenue, potentially helping the town’s recovery.
Residents and local politicians remain divided. Aitana Garrido, a Más Madrid deputy and local resident, says the community is still deeply affected by the wildfire. She sees value in restoring a sense of normality but questions the wisdom of holding a pyrotechnic event in an area officially designated as high fire risk, with no preventive measures in place. The debate reflects broader concerns about fire management in Spain, including recent scrutiny of wildfire responses elsewhere, such as the controversy over Valencia’s handling of the El Saler fire.
The Pantano de San Juan remains closed as tree removal work continues, with no reopening date set. The ongoing closure has left many local businesses in limbo and added to the economic strain. The council says the festivities, including the fireworks and bullfighting events with well-known toreros José María Manzanares, Andrés Roca Rey, and Alejandro Mora, were planned before the wildfire and are meant to support the town’s recovery.
San Martín de Valdeiglesias is among the municipalities weighing tradition and economic needs against safety after severe wildfires. Across Spain, local authorities face growing pressure to adapt public events to changing climate risks. Debate over the festivities is likely to continue as they approach, with the community weighing the benefits of celebration against the risks that remain.
