People dressed as devils filled the streets with sparks, smoke, and rhythmic drumming as they danced among showers of firecrackers during the traditional “correfoc” (fire-run) festival in eastern Spain on November 8, 2025. The event, known for its dazzling mix of fire, music, and folklore, took place in the historic town of Morella, Castellón, where the medieval walls and narrow streets provided a dramatic backdrop for the fiery spectacle.
More than 200 participants from seven different cultural groups joined in the 10th “Trobada de Dimonis” (Gathering of Demons), an annual event celebrating one of Spain’s most vibrant and ancient traditions. Groups from Aragon, Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands paraded through the town, dressed in elaborate devil costumes adorned with horns, masks, and capes. They carried pitchforks that sprayed sparks into the night sky, while drummers and musicians created a thunderous rhythm that echoed through the stone streets.
Spectators lined the route, some keeping a safe distance while others bravely ran alongside the performers, dancing and laughing amid the bursts of light and smoke. Local residents decorated balconies with flags and lanterns, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The correfoc tradition dates back to medieval Corpus Christi celebrations, originally representing the battle between angels and demons—a symbolic display of the eternal struggle between good and evil. Over the centuries, it evolved into a spectacular popular festival blending pagan rituals, folklore, and community spirit. Today, it is one of the most anticipated cultural events in eastern Spain, reflecting the region’s deep-rooted love for fiery pageantry and collective celebration.
This year’s edition in Morella was particularly significant, marking a decade since the first “Trobada de Dimonis.” The festival concluded with a grand finale in the main square, where all the groups gathered to ignite a synchronized fire show, lighting up the night sky and drawing loud cheers from the crowd, reaffirming the enduring passion and tradition that the correfoc embodies.
