Bonfires of San Juan 2023. This traditional festival attracts people from far and wide to celebrate the shortest night of the year. Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this celebration, discover what is done on the night of San Juan and get to know the emblematic places where this festival is celebrated.
When is San Juan in 2023? An unmissable event every year
This holiday takes place on 23 June, coinciding with the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. It is a magical night in which the change of season is celebrated and summer is welcomed with ancestral rituals and traditions rooted in different cultures.
What do you do on the night of San Juan?
The night of San Juan is known for its rituals and customs that fill the atmosphere with magic and energy. On this holiday, it is common to light bonfires on beaches, in parks and squares, and to jump over them to purify oneself and get rid of bad energies.
It is also customary to write wishes on paper and burn them in the flames, symbolising renewal and hope for the new cycle that begins. Another characteristic element of the night of San Juan are the fireworks, which light up the sky and add a touch of spectacularity to the celebration.
It is traditional to enjoy typical food and drinks, such as the bonfires of San Juan, which are sweet bonfire-shaped breads decorated with sugar and candied fruit.
The festival of San Juan in Alicante
The Official Bonfire:
Every year a monumental bonfire is built in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Alicante. This bonfire is one of the largest and most elaborate of all the fiestas of San Juan in the region.
Esplanade of Spain:
It is an emblematic promenade in Alicante and during the Bonfires of San Juan it is full of colour and animation. Different activities and concerts are held here during the festivities.
Barrio de Santa Cruz:
It is one of the most traditional neighbourhoods in Alicante and during the Bonfires of San Juan it is adorned with numerous bonfires and decorations. It is famous for its narrow streets and colourful staircases decorated with flowers.
San Juan in Barcelona
Barceloneta beach:
It is one of the most popular beaches in Barcelona and during the Bonfires of San Juan it becomes the scene of numerous bonfires and celebrations. People gather on the beach to enjoy the night and welcome the summer solstice.
Montjuïc:
It is a mountain located in Barcelona and at the top is the Montjuïc Castle. During the Bonfires of San Juan, fireworks displays are held from this area, offering a spectacular view of the city.
San Juan emblematic in Andalusia
Malagueta Beach (Malaga)
It is one of the most popular beaches in Malaga and during the Bonfires of San Juan a big party is held on the beach. Bonfires are lit along the coast and people enjoy music, dancing and fireworks.
Alameda de Hércules (Seville)
It is an emblematic place in Seville and during the Bonfires of San Juan it is full of bonfires and festive activities. People congregate in this area to enjoy the shortest night of the year and celebrate the summer solstice.
Puerto Banús (Marbella)
It is a luxury marina in Marbella and during the Bonfires of San Juan numerous celebrations and parties are organised in the yachts and clubs in the area. It is a popular place to enjoy the night of San Juan in an exclusive atmosphere.