The scent of gunpowder and sweet bread lingers in the air. The night sky glows with sparks, and laughter echoes across streets and beaches. As the sun sets on 23 June, Catalonia comes alive for the Revetlla, arguably the year’s most eagerly awaited and lively night. It’s a jubilant welcome to summer, blending ancient traditions with uncontainable joy. A night where fire cleanses, festivities connect, and dreams take flight. Ready to unravel the magic of this tradition? Revetlla de Sant Joan: What Is It and Where Does It Come From? The Revetlla (Saint John’s Eve Festival) is a vibrant celebration held in Catalonia from the night of 23 to 24 June. But what are the roots of this cherished tradition? The eve of Sant Joan aligns closely with the summer solstice, the year’s longest day and shortest night. For centuries, agricultural societies marked this moment with fire rituals to usher in summer, ensure bountiful harvests, promote fertility, and ward off evil spirits. Fire was believed to purify and bolster the sun’s strength. With the rise of Christianity, the festival became tied to the birth of Saint John the Baptist (24 June), with legend stating his father lit a bonfire to herald his arrival. This allowed pagan fire traditions to endure within the Christian calendar. When Is Saint John’s Eve in Catalonia? It takes place on the night of 23 to 24 June. While 24 June is the official holiday, the main festivities—the Revetlla—unfold the evening before. Known as “the shortest night of the year,” it’s a time to stay awake, celebrating on the streets, beaches, or with loved ones until sunrise, even though the solstice’s exact date may slightly vary. Fire, Fireworks, Dances, and Coca de Sant Joan: Iconic Rituals Saint John’s Eve in Catalonia wouldn’t shine as brightly without its timeless rituals, which infuse the night with meaning and merriment year after year. Bonfires: The heart of the celebration. Lit in squares, streets, and on beaches, they symbolize purification—legend has it that leaping over them burns away misfortune and attracts good fortune. A highlight is the arrival of the Flama del Canigó. Kept alive year-round at the Castellet de Perpignan, this flame is renewed each 22 June atop Canigó’s peak. Hundreds of volunteers then carry it across Catalonia to ignite the festival’s bonfires, embodying the unity of Catalan language and culture. Firecrackers and Fireworks: The crackle of traques (smaller, individual firecrackers), masclets (very loud firecrackers), fountains, and rockets is a hallmark of Sant Joan. Once believed to repel evil spirits with their sound, today they amplify the festive and joyful spirit. Many municipalities host dazzling fireworks shows to light up the night. Music and Dance: The Revetlla is a night to let loose! Open-air concerts and dances cater to all musical tastes. In some villages, traditional sardana dances circle the bonfires, but lively street parties with orchestras or DJs, pulsing into the early hours, are more common. Coca de Sant Joan: The culinary star of the night. This oval brioche, typically topped with candied fruit and pine nuts, is a classic. Variations abound, filled with cream, custard, marzipan, or the beloved coca de llardons (pork crackling), often paired with a chilled glass of cava. Other Traditions: Some partake in midnight sea baths for purification or gather medicinal herbs like thyme, rosemary, or St. John’s wort, believed to hold special powers when picked on this night. Top Sant Joan Celebrations in Catalonia Sant Joan is joyously celebrated across Catalonia, with each locale adding its unique flair to the festivities. Rather than focusing on specific towns, as the festival is widespread, here are the varied ways it’s experienced: Beach Revetlles: Perhaps the most iconic setting. Crowds of thousands flock to Catalonia’s coastal beaches, where bonfires blaze on the sand, friends share impromptu dinners, firecrackers crackle, and the bold take a midnight dip in the sea. The vibe is youthful, lively, and festive. Urban Festivities: In cities and villages, the celebration centres on main squares. Local councils typically host official bonfires, lively festivities with live music, dances, and often spectacular pyrotechnic displays. Intimate Gatherings: Many choose cosy celebrations with family or friends, held at home, in gardens, or on terraces. These feature shared coca, chilled cava, and a few firecrackers, all in a laid-back atmosphere. Arrival of the Flama del Canigó: A poignant highlight in many towns, this event symbolizes unity and marks the lighting of the main bonfire. It’s often paired with cultural activities and manifesto readings. No matter where you are, the essence remains: coming together, welcoming summer, and revelling in a night of fire, light, and shared happiness. Tips for a Safe and Memorable Revetlla The Revetlla (Saint John’s Eve Festival) is a spectacular celebration, but with fire and pyrotechnics at its core, following key safety tips ensures a fun and incident-free night: Bonfires: Set them up at least 15 meters from buildings and vehicles. Avoid tossing hazardous materials into the flames. Keep an eye on wind conditions and have extinguishing tools ready. Pyrotechnics: Purchase from licensed vendors and follow instructions carefully. Never carry firecrackers in pockets. Avoid holding them or bringing them near your body. Light them on the ground, and never aim at people or objects. Don’t place them inside items that could create shrapnel. Clothing: Wear cotton garments with long sleeves and pants, plus closed-toe shoes when near fire. A hat or neckerchief is advisable. Children: Always supervise them. Choose age-appropriate fireworks and explain the risks clearly. Pets: Shield them from noise by keeping them in a calm, secure spot at home. Respect: Keep noise levels reasonable late at night and be mindful of the environment and neighbours. The Revetlla in Catalonia is a vibrant burst of life, where tradition and festivity unite under the glow of flames. It’s a shared moment that welcomes summer with optimism and delight. From seaside bonfires to savouring coca, dancing, and sipping cava, embrace the infectious spirit of Catalonia’s most enchanting summer night!