St. John's Day

**St. John's Day in Spain (Noche de San Juan)** St. John's Day, celebrated on **June 23-24**, is one of Spain's most vibrant and magical festivals, marking the summer solstice and the birth of St. John the Baptist. Known as **Noche de San Juan**, the night of June 23 is filled with bonfires, fireworks, music, and rituals to welcome the summer and ward off evil spirits. The celebration is deeply rooted in pagan and Christian traditions, blending fire, water, and purification rituals. People gather on beaches and in town squares to light bonfires, jump over flames for good luck, and write wishes on paper to burn in the fire. Many also take midnight dips in the sea or rivers, believed to cleanse the soul and bring health and fertility. Each region in Spain adds its own flair to the festivities. In **Alicante**, the **Hogueras de San Juan** features elaborate bonfires and parades, while in **Barcelona**, the beaches come alive with music and dancing. Traditional foods like **coca de San Juan**, a sweet pastry, are enjoyed during the celebrations. St. John's Day is a time of joy, renewal, and community, embodying the spirit of summer and the magic of Spanish culture.