The Night of San Juan is one of the most magical and popular festivities in Spain. Celebrated on June 23, coinciding with the eve of St. John the Baptist, the beaches are filled with people and bonfires are lit on which you jump to make your wishes.

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Origin of the Night of San Juan

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The Night of San Juan has its roots in ancient pagan festivals celebrating the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. Ancient peoples would light bonfires to honor the sun and ask for abundant harvests.  

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With the arrival of Christianity, these celebrations merged with the birth of San Juan Bautista, giving rise to the festival we know today. According to tradition, fire has a purifying and protective power, so jumping over bonfires is a common rite that symbolizes renewal and the elimination of the negative.

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Places where the Night of San Juan is celebrated

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Although the Night of San Juan is celebrated in much of Spain, there are some places where this holiday takes on a special relevance:

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- Valencian Community: Although practically all the municipalities with coast celebrate this night, Alicante celebrates the most famous of Spain. This celebration goes far beyond that night. Declared of International Tourist Interest, these week-long festivities are characterized by music, parties, fireworks, cultural events and, to round off the week, the construction of papier-mâché monuments that are burned on the night of June 24-25.  

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- Galicia: In Galicia, the Night of San Juan is known as the "Noite da Queima". The beaches of Riazor and Orzán, in La Coruña, are filled with bonfires and it is tradition to jump the waves to bring good luck into your life.  

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- Catalonia: All towns and cities in Catalonia celebrate the verbena of San Juan and, although the festivities vary, the main elements are always the same: fire, the roar of firecrackers, coca and cava. On the beaches, it is a tradition to dine with friends and family around a bonfire. In big cities, such as Barcelona, there are also concerts in several streets of the city.  

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- Balearic Islands: The protagonism of this night in the Balearic Islands is taken by the festivities of San Juan in Ciutadella, Menorca. The "caixers" (horsemen) and their horses perform exciting races and jumps, while the crowd cheers them on. The atmosphere in the town is guaranteed all day long.

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How is the Night of San Juan celebrated?

The Night of San Juan celebrations vary by region, but share some common elements that make this night special:

- Bonfires: the most characteristic element of the night. Bonfires are lit on the beaches over which people jump as a symbol of purification and good luck.

- Night baths: In many coastal areas, tradition dictates bathing in the sea at midnight. It is believed that this bath brings health and protection.

- Food and drink: Barbecues, grilled sardines and typical sweets are a must. It varies according to the area, but dining outdoors is a must.

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An unmissable experience

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Living the Noche de San Juan in Spain is an experience that goes beyond a simple party. It is an immersion in the culture, traditions and community spirit that defines the different regions of the country. Wherever you choose to celebrate it. This night offers a unique opportunity to connect with Spanish history and customs in a magical and immersive way.

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