Thunder and Figs: The Feat of a Special Category Barraca in the Heart of the Northern Zone

Setting up a Special Category barraca is no easy task, especially in the Juan XXIII neighbourhood, right in the heart of Alicante's Northern Zone. The barrackers of Thunder and Figs know this well, as this Hogueras they have aimed for the highest category. Not only that, but their portal has won the second prize in the Special category, a recognition of the collective effort of a commission that works with their hands, heart, and pride of being from the north.

"We are very proud to plant these things. We made it ourselves, the commission does it, and this year it is getting a lot of attention, it's moving on social media and people are liking it," explains their president, Jesús Manuel Fernández López.

This 2025, approaching this portal is like teleporting. The barrackers of Thunder and Figs have meticulously reproduced the facade of the historic Hospital of Alicante, now housing the MARQ. The portal stands out for its design and completely handcrafted work, born from shared creativity: "Here we gather, think a bit, and together we do it as best as possible."

The idea for the current portal emerged last year when, upon collecting the medals, they saw the building where the event was held and had an "enlightenment" that inspired this year's proposal. This is even more commendable as they are one of the few barracas in the Northern Zone, doing so in the Special category. "We are somewhat isolated because in Juan XXIII we are the only ones. There isn't even a bonfire in the neighbourhood, but here we remain," Fernández recounts.

The secret of Thunder and Figs lies in camaraderie: "Here there are people from all over, but we have been companions for life. Now some children are taking over from their parents, it's in their blood, even if they leave the neighbourhood, they have affection for it. We are practically families."

This generational continuity is what drives them to keep going despite the difficulties. "We were a bit disappointed by the second prize, but it is what it is. You can't compete against the big things in the centre," he admits honestly.

Even so, what they do is of enormous value. "This is no small feat, because it is practically a large bonfire. It is very commendable for the members. Here, together, we do it as best as possible."

The members are the soul, as setting up a Special Category barraca in a neighbourhood like Juan XXIII has its challenges. The environment doesn't always help: "There used to be more collaboration from the neighbourhood, now there are many foreigners who don't participate in the festivities and it's not like before, that has been lost," Fernández laments.

But despite the isolation, the lack of nearby bonfires, or the reduced neighbourhood support, the commission remains firm in its commitment to building community, celebrating, and making Alicante. And they demonstrate it with actions: awards, involvement, and above all, fidelity to a tradition that passes from parents to children.