Villena in Spain has launched the 2026 edition of The Waterparties Club, a local awareness campaign promoting healthier, safer and more inclusive celebrations. Presented on 31 July in front of more than 400 people, the campaign focuses on reducing alcohol use, encouraging responsible behaviour and preventing violence during public events and local festivities.

At the heart of the campaign is a simple message, enjoying a celebration does not depend on alcohol. Villena’s Councillor for Health, Alba Laserna, stressed that what makes a good celebration is the people, the music, the atmosphere and the shared experience. Councillor for Festivities José Ferri added that the best festivities are those that can be experienced fully without alcohol or other substances limiting people’s choices or behaviour.

The campaign brings together a wide network of local partners, including Villena’s addiction prevention service, health and recovery organisations, businesses, neighbourhood associations, sports clubs and the 14 groups involved in the city’s traditional Moros y Cristianos celebrations. This broad community involvement allows the campaign to reach people through different settings and activities rather than relying on a single awareness message.

Over the coming weeks, The Waterparties Club will offer several alcohol-free and health-focused activities. These include the Ruta Sed de Vivir, where participating venues will offer mocktails and 0.0 drink menus, as well as a Sunset Party with music on 27 August and other activities throughout the year. The initiative aims to show that local festivities can remain social, enjoyable and memorable while giving greater space to alcohol-free choices and healthier forms of celebration.

Find more from Villena (Spain, July 2026)