The bonfire blazes, the grill is hot, and the musical rhythms invite dancing on the beach. The night of San Juan on June 23 draws hundreds of thousands to the beaches of Mallorca. The summer solstice is also the unofficial start of the swimming season.
In June, summer on the island is welcomed with dancing, laughter, and celebration: during the day on the beaches, and at night outdoors along the boardwalks and in the squares of trendy neighborhoods.
Ancient traditions meet a modern program
In the night of June 23rd to 24th, the festival of San Juan is traditionally celebrated in Mallorca. Combined with the summer solstice, it marks the traditional welcome of summer. It is a spiritual festival, where it is believed that the ancient traditions have a special effect.
In the days leading up to the Nit de Foc (Night of Fire) or Nit de Sant Joan (Night of Saint John), there is an extensive program throughout the island. Many concerts and theatrical performances are held. The night itself is a very special event.
In the beaches of Mallorca, barbecues and bonfires are held, and only on that day or night. Numerous people gather on the beaches for a picnic or simply to be together. Food is grilled, eaten, laughed over, music is made, and celebrations are had. Families, coworkers, friends—almost the entire island gathers on the beach. Hence, it’s worth securing a good spot in advance.
The atmosphere is so relaxed that probably no one would mind if visitors joined their barbecue.
From early in the afternoon, people look for a pleasant spot on one of the beaches and get ready for a varied evening. To ward off evil spirits, a bonfire is traditionally lit.
The bonfire and the numerous candles and torches people carry create an especially cozy atmosphere at dusk. Many Mallorcans also like to let paper boats with candles float on the water to ward off evil spirits.
Food is grilled, eaten, and drinks are consumed, and at midnight, there’s the traditional swim in the sea. If the water was still too cold in May, by June, with temperatures of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit, people might dare to venture into the sea.
Also, it is a tradition to write a wish on a piece of paper and burn it in the bonfire: then, the people of Mallorca believe, their wish will come true. Although the night of San Juan is the shortest night of the year, it can be one of the longest nights of celebration: many are present when the sun sets and do not go home until it rises again and the sea of lights fades. A unique experience!
Everywhere smells of grilled meat, candles and torches burn brightly, and people celebrate cheerfully until the night falls. In some places, bongo drummers gather. This may not be especially spiritual, but the atmosphere is impressive. And, of course, there is also swimming in the sea.
Do not leave luck to chance
The Nit de Sant Joan is inseparably linked to fire, hence the tradition of many bonfires on the beach. Also, in the large plazas of some places in Mallorca, San Juan bonfires are lit.
With fire, evil spirits are chased away. For example, you can throw something old into the fire. To ensure that something good and new arrives in the future or that wishes are fulfilled, while the old things burn, you must jump over the fire three times.
Another tradition is to write on a piece of paper the things that have bothered or disappointed you in the last 365 days and burn it in the fire at midnight. And couples, if they jump hand in hand seven times over the fire, are said to have a life full of happiness and satisfaction.
No one knows where the tradition of the Nit de Sant Joan comes from, but it is believed to be a pagan festival in honor of the solstice.
Luxurious parties
Anyone wishing to watch the show from a certain distance, while still celebrating, can head to one of the trendy Beach Clubs.
The exclusive “Nikki Beach” club, where you can celebrate alongside the rich and famous of the island, always takes its guests to other countries with themes like “Brazil Party,” “Viva México,” and “Welcome to St. Tropez.” And, of course, the night of San Juan is celebrated here as it deserves: the “San Juan Party” on June 23rd starting at 8 p.m. entertains attendees with fire shows and dancers.
