The night of San Juan is approaching, a magical night that announces the beginning of summer. But do you know exactly what is celebrated by Saint John's Eve?
In this article we explain you some curiosities about one of the most awaited festivities in Catalonia. A traditional fest that is celebrated in many regions but in different ways. We explain you everything!
The night of San Juan, also known as the eve of San Juan or simply Fiesta de San Juan, is a tradition with pagan origin that was celebrated in the northern hemisphere every June 23. A party to welcome the heat and celebrate the arrival of the summer solstice. It is also linked to Christianity, since June 24 is the feast of the birth of Saint John the Baptist.
The night of San Juan is a party spread throughout the world. It is celebrated in many parts of Europe; although in countries like Spain and Portugal (fogueiras de São João) one lives with special devotion.
In some places it is tradition to walk on brasses, and in others a purifying bath at midnight... Traditions that have been passed from generation to generation. There are more superstitious and more religious traditions of San Juan. However, they all have fire and water in common, and they are celebrated during the magical night of June 23.
In Catalonia, during the night of San Juan, better known as the revetlla de Sant Joan, tradition has a renewed meaning; burn the old at the stake and purifying baths in the sea. If you ever live the revetlla de Sant Joan in Catalonia you will find:
Days before the revetlla, the cities and towns are filled with firecracker booths. These firecrackers are lit during the night of June 23 and make the night of San Juan the noisiest of all years; a night of much noise and light. On the other hand there are the castles and fireworks displays that are the most spectacular image of the night of San Juan.
Bonfires are also a tradition. In the past, neighbors made bonfires in the streets, burning old furniture, papers or newspapers that they had at home. Currently, and as a precaution, you will not find so many bonfires on the streets. Most of them light up on the beaches of the coastal municipalities, where at this time there is a more festive and lively atmosphere.
And after the night of Sant Joan... Saint John's Day is coming! A day in which Catalan families gather to toast with cava and eat the delicious coca de Sant Joan.
However, this year will be an atypical San Juan ... If you want to spend this San Juan 2020 in Lloret de Mar, make sure you comply with all the recommendations and measures of the Health Department of the Generalitat:
• The celebration, better in small groups. Avoid crowds!• Respect the safety distance of 2 meters with people you do not live with, even if they are friends or family; wash your hands frequently and wear a mask.• Do not share cutlery, drinks or food.• If you buy fireworks, choose to do it online and pick up at the store by appointment.• Remember that hydroalcoholic mask, gloves and gels are highly flammable. Get away from the fire and the firecrackers!
And remember, now that summer 2020 begins, at Rosamar Hotels we comply with all health and safety measures so that you can enjoy your holidays in Lloret de Mar. We take your health very seriously, because #youareRosamarHotels.Take a look at all our establishments and choose the hotel that best suits your needs: Adults-only hotels, hotels for family vacations, hotels with gym and spa, hotels with swimming pools and much more!