Vandalism is once again making its presence felt in the streets decorated for the Fogueres festival in Xàbia.

The enthusiasm and the effort of the neighbors to keep the tradition of the streets decorated in the Les Fogueres de Sant Joan de Xàbia festivities has been marred by a new act of vandalism. This morning, residents of Virgen de la Merced Street woke up to a bitter surprise: the main feature of their themed decoration, a Homer Simpson figure, had disappeared.

Homer Simpson figure stolen from decorated street

The street had been decorated in honor of the animated series The Simpsons. The absence of the central character has left a symbolic and emotional void among the residents, who had spent weeks lovingly and dedicatedly preparing every detail.

"It's disrespectful to all the effort we've put into making these festivities shine with joy. It's an activity of camaraderie and excitement that we neighbors do to maintain the tradition, and it's heartbreaking that it's not respected," several residents on the street stated.

This is how the street looked decorated with the Virgen de la Merced in Xàbia

But this was not an isolated incident. During the first day of installation, Sant Pere Màrtir Street also suffered acts of vandalism: several of its hanging designs were torn off and stolen. Although some of them later appeared on another street in the municipality, the damage had already been done.

Sant Pere Martir Street where decorative elements were also stolen

"Beyond the purpose, the discouragement it sows is painful," residents lament. The frequency of these incidents has generated growing demotivation among residents, resulting in fewer streets participating each year, which takes the sparkle and color out of the festivities.

Image of the decorated street without the main figure

Message of respect and awareness

The affected residents of the two streets are urging respect: "We don't understand what's the point of destroying something that was done with such enthusiasm," they say. The goal of decorating the streets is none other than to contribute to a shared celebration, foster coexistence, and keep traditions alive.

Sadly, residents are asking for greater civic awareness and, above all, consideration for those who dedicate their time and energy to making Les Fogueres a more beautiful festival.