San Juan Festival

SPANISH and foreign citizens alike will flock to the beaches on the evening of Friday June 23 for the annual festivities of the noche de San Juan (San Juan night). This cherished tradition captivates people of all ages, offering a delightful mix of ancient customs and modern festivities.

The Spanish San Juan festival is renowned for its captivating bonfires, symbolising the purification and renewal of the soul. Locals and visitors gather on the beaches, creating a mesmerising ambience that truly sets this festival apart.

At midnight the night sky is illuminated by dazzling fire­ works, set off from various locations all along the Spanish coastline from Cadiz, through the Costa del Sol and Almeria to the Costa Calida and Costa Blanca.

It is not uncommon to see lines of people waiting to

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STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

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jump over the embers of one of the many moragas (bonfires), an act based in the belief of fire warding off evil spirits and curing disease. Whether taking a picnic and chairs down for a night on the beach, or enjoying a meal with friends in one of the many chiringuitos that the Spanish coast has to offer, food and drink will be a central feature, with espetos de sardinas and plenty of ice cold beer and tinto de verano consumed.