The festival of San Juan Bautista, or simply San Juan, holds a special place in the Canary Islands' cultural agenda. This celebration, which takes place on the night of June 23-24, marks the beginning of summer and is steeped in deep traditions and customs. Let's immerse ourselves in the living spectacle of San Juan together.
Before the festival: the preparations
In the run-up to San Juan, the islanders begin to decorate their homes and make preparations for the upcoming festival. It's a time of excitement and anticipation as the streets fill with a festive spirit. Handicraft markets are held in many villages and towns, where you can buy traditional Canarian products and handicrafts.
The Night of San Juan: A Festival of Fire and Water
The actual celebration begins at nightfall on June 23rd. The night of San Juan is a celebration of fire and water, symbols of purification and renewal. Huge bonfires are lit across the islands to burn the "old" and make way for the "new".
It's a common tradition to throw old objects into the fire to get rid of negative energies and welcome a year full of happiness and positivity. In addition, many people jump over the flames, believing that doing so will bring them good luck in the coming year.
At the same time, water is celebrated as the source of life and fertility. It is customary to jump into the sea at midnight, which is considered a purification ritual. Many believe that this bath brings good luck and wards off diseases.
The music and the food
No festival would be complete without music and good food. In San Juan there is live music in the streets and squares of the islands, with traditional Canarian songs and dances performed alongside more modern rhythms. At the same time one can enjoy the delicious Canarian cuisine served at street stalls and in restaurants. Dishes such as "papas arrugadas" (wrinkled potatoes), "mojo" (a spicy sauce) and fresh fish are particularly popular.
Conclusion
The San Juan Festival in the Canary Islands is an explosion of colours, sounds and emotions. It's a time when old traditions come alive and the whole community comes together to welcome summer. With its deep symbolic richness and festive atmosphere, San Juan is an unforgettable experience and a fascinating insight into the culture of the Canary Islands. If you ever get the chance to be part of this special celebration, you should definitely take it. Let yourself be carried away by the joy of the locals, experience the impressive bonfires on the beach, enjoy the delicious Canarian specialties and immerse yourself in the rhythmic world of Canarian music. It is an experience that will surely leave you spellbound.
However, San Juan is more than just a festival; it is a manifestation of Canarian culture and tradition, a living expression of people's sense of community and connection to their surroundings. By attending this festival you will not only get a good time but also a deeper understanding of the Canary Islands and its people.
Whether you're able to attend the celebrations in person, or you're just curious about this fascinating tradition, we hope this article gave you a little insight into the magic of San Juan. Just as the fire lights up the night and the water brings life, the feast of San Juan brings light and life to the hearts of the people of the Canary Islands. It's a tradition passed down from generation to generation, a festival that celebrates and enriches the culture of the Canary Islands.
So San Juan is more than just a date on the calendar. It's a living testament to the power of tradition, the beauty of community, and the joy of sharing. It's a celebration that reminds us to let go of the old, embrace the new and celebrate every moment. It's a reminder that no matter where we come from or where we're going, we always have a reason to celebrate.