IGNITING THE SUMMER

Betty Henderson

TOWNS across Axarquia are eagerly awaiting the magical Night of San Juan, an age­old celebration commemorating the birth of John the Baptist. Locally the event is ingrained in local customs with all­night parties set to take place.

In Nerja, families are set to gather on Playa Burriana on Friday, June 23 to bid a warm welcome to summer. The beach will be the heart of celebrations for the town with the traditional ‘sanjuaneo’.

As the clock strikes midnight, the ‘juas’, symbolic effigies designed by locals, burst into flames, creating huge beach fires. Thrilled youngsters joyfully leap over the glowing embers before plunging into the inviting sea, traditionally whispering three wishes.

In neighbouring Torre del Mar, the Night of San Juan brings live musical performances too. Efecto Pasillo, El Regreso de la Década, and We Are Sau will grace Copo Beach. El Regreso de la Década will provide a blast from the past with hits from the 60s to the 80s.

As the crowd enjoys the live music,