Summary
- Guardamar del Segura bans the use of fireworks during the main Moros y Cristianos parades this year.
- The decision follows Spain’s Law 7/2023 focused on animal rights and welfare, emphasizing noise reduction.
- The entrances (parades) will start earlier at 8:00 PM to avoid late-night disturbances.
- Animal welfare groups praise the move as a brave and inclusive step forward.
- The ban also considers the impact of fireworks noise on neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism.
Guardamar del Segura Restricts Fireworks in Moros y Cristianos to Protect Animals and People
this weekend marks the much-anticipated celebrations of Moros y Cristianos in Guardamar del Segura, but with a critically important new change: the use of fireworks will be completely prohibited during the two main parades – the Entrada Cristiana on Saturday and the Entrada Mora on Sunday.
New Parade Timings and firework Ban
Both parades will start earlier than in previous years, kicking off at 8:00 PM, which is 30 minutes ahead of last year’s schedule. This adjustment, decided by the Junta Central de Moros y Cristianos, aims to ensure the festivities conclude at a reasonable hour, reducing late-night noise.
More importantly, the local authorities, led by María Venerdi and the Concejalía de Fiestas (Festival Office), have issued an official directive banning the use of fireworks during these grand parades. This initiative aligns with Spain’s Law 7/2023 of March 28, a progressive legal framework designed to protect the rights and welfare of animals.
Why the Firework Restriction?
The law acknowledges the adverse effects of loud noises caused by fireworks not only on animals but also on urban wildlife and even certain groups of people. Pets and wild animals can experience severe stress, anxiety, and fear due to loud explosions. Moreover, some individuals with neurodivergent conditions such as autism can suffer from sensory overload linked to loud and sudden noises.
- Animal Welfare Impact: Reduced noise pollution helps keep pets calm and prevents distress to local wildlife.
- Human Considerations: minimizing loud fireworks supports individuals with sensory sensitivities, promoting a more inclusive celebration.
The Community Reacts
Animalia Protección Animal, a local animal protection association, has publicly praised Guardamar del Segura’s efforts. They called the decision “brave” and described this restriction as an significant first step towards making customary festivals more respectful and inclusive.
according to Animalia, the new regulation balances cherished cultural traditions with modern concerns for animal and human wellbeing, setting an example for other towns hosting similar festivities in Spain.
Faster Overview: Festival Changes at a Glance
| Event | Old Time | New Time | Fireworks Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrada Cristiana (Saturday) | 8:30 PM | 8:00 PM | No |
| Entrada Mora (Sunday) | 8:30 PM | 8:00 PM | No |
Looking Ahead
Guardamar del Segura’s proactive measures showcase how traditional festivals can evolve to respect animal welfare laws and extend inclusivity toward all community members. It also highlights growing awareness of the effect noise pollution has beyond just humans, an issue more communities across Spain are starting to address.
If accomplished, this approach might inspire other towns hosting Moros y Cristianos and similar events to reconsider their use of fireworks, balancing festive spirit with compassion for animals and vulnerable people.
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