The towns of Fondón, Fuente Victoria, and Benecid, located in the heart of the Alpujarra region of Almería, have jointly decided not to include rocket launches or fireworks in their August popular festivals. This measure, adopted by the Municipal Councils and the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Anguish and Christ of Light, as well as the 'La Primera' Rocket Association of Fondón, stems from a commitment to safety and the protection of the natural environment during a summer marked by a high incidence of forest fires across the country.
The celebrations in Benecid (August 6-9), Fuente Victoria (August 14-16), and Fondón (August 20-24) will proceed without pyrotechnic displays. This initiative follows the lead of other municipalities, such as Fines, which has also chosen to prohibit pyrotechnics at popular events due to high risk.
In a joint statement, the three towns in the Almerian Alpujarra state that "we are experiencing one of the summers with the highest risk of forest fires in recent years." They explain that the vegetation, which grew due to winter rains and is now dry from high temperatures, has become "fuel" that significantly increases the danger of fire spread. The decision is based on the forecasted weather conditions and the high risk, which could prevent administrative authorization for such displays.
While acknowledging that rockets are part of the "history of our festivals," the signatory entities have decided to prioritize the protection of people, homes, the countryside, and natural heritage above any custom. They emphasize that the festivals will be celebrated with the same enthusiasm and devotion, foregoing only an element they consider an "unnecessary risk" under current circumstances.
Municipal officials, the brotherhood, and the rocket association express their heartfelt gratitude for the residents' understanding and collaboration, confident that celebrating the festivals responsibly will ensure the preservation of the mountains and natural heritage they cherish.
