Sant Joan in Barcelona

Sant Joan is one of the most important traditional celebrations in Barcelona. In the eve of Sant Joan there is a celebration with bonfires in beaches and fireworks at night in the streets also. According to the tradition, the sunrise of the sun at the beach should be seeing according to the celebration.

Although the festival of Sant Joan is the day following the summer solstice, the previous night invites everyone to the celebrate and invites everyone to party all night long to a never ending party.

The typical thing to do that night is the popular verbenas and to have dinner accompanied of the typical cocada (pastry) and the glass of cava on any street. Years ago, bonfires were organized in the streets, but the fire dangers made this impossible unless you have a special  permission (firecrackers have no prohibitions).

Many of celebrations are at the beach because Sant Joan also is synonymous of the arrival of the summer and in the old pagan traditions. Of course, after a great celebration at the beach, you can be left stranded with no taxis available or the tube packed with people for at least one hour!