Sant Joan’s Day in Barcelona is one of this city’s most whimsical and widely celebrated festivals and is an overload of senses. It marks both the birth of Saint John the Baptist and the highly anticipated arrival of summer.
The official holiday is marked on June 24; however, the true celebration takes place the night before, on June 23.
Fireworks can be heard echoing throughout the city all day long, but especially on Barceloneta Beach. You can see fireworks in front, above and behind you. This tradition is said to scare away the evil demons and witches. In addition to the fireworks, bonfires illuminate the city corners and beaches.
Being able to experience this holiday was a surreal experience that we will never forget. From the packed metro and buses that felt like moving nightclubs on the way to the shore, and the beautiful chaos all around you, you couldn’t help but smile. There was no official stage or countdown — just pure joy and spontaneous celebration.
About the Authors
Group 14: Jarrett Wright (Broadcast Journalism) Morgan Kozak (Print Journalism) Shelby Rutherford (Visual Communications) Gabriella Fodi (Advertising) Grace Blumhardt (Public Relations)