Verbena de San Juan - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Verbena de San Juan is a traditional festival celebrated on the eve of June 23rd in Spain, particularly in Catalonia and Valencia.
- 2. The festival is a celebration of the summer solstice, with bonfires lit to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year.
- 3. People gather around the bonfires on the beach or in public squares, where they dance and sing traditional songs.
- 4. One popular tradition during Verbena de San Juan is to jump over the bonfire three times to cleanse the body and soul.
- 5. Another tradition is to write down a wish on a piece of paper and throw it into the fire, believing that it will come true if the flames consume the paper.
- 6. Many people also take a midnight swim in the sea to wash away their sins and bad luck, as it is believed that the water is blessed on this night.
- 7. Traditional foods eaten during the festival include coca de Sant Joan (a sweet bread with candied fruits) and cava (Spanish sparkling wine).
- 8. Fireworks are also a common sight during Verbena de San Juan, lighting up the night sky in celebration.
- 9. The festival is a time for family and friends to come together, enjoying each other's company and participating in the various customs and traditions.
- 10. While Verbena de San Juan is primarily celebrated in Spain, similar summer solstice festivals can be found in other countries around the world.