Last Monday, June 23, was La Noche de San Juan. This is a fiesta to welcome the summer season. While every region of Spain has different local traditions, most of them are held on beaches. There are endless bonfires, drinks, food, and friends along the coastlines. Legends, traditions, and magical rituals are connected by common elements: fire and water.
Many locals believe that on this night, paranormal events can occur. It is also a night full of superstition. There are many rituals you can perform, and again, they vary by region. In Valencia, we submerged ourselves in the ocean at midnight, which supposedly purifies the soul and body. While in the ocean, we had to jump over seven waves (not sure what the significance of that was). Then, we all took turns jumping over our bonfire, which, according to legend, gives more strength to the sun, which loses hours of light as the summer progresses. Thousands of bonfires dot the Spanish coastlines, and it is truly a sight to see.
We were advised not to bring anything valuable since it is so crowded, so unfortunately I do not have any of my own pictures. My friend took a few, which I will post once she downloads them. For now, here is a picture from the Internet that gives you the idea!
The remainder of the week I was busy writing essays before leaving for Portugal on Friday, which I will post about later!
Many locals believe that on this night, paranormal events can occur. It is also a night full of superstition. There are many rituals you can perform, and again, they vary by region. In Valencia, we submerged ourselves in the ocean at midnight, which supposedly purifies the soul and body. While in the ocean, we had to jump over seven waves (not sure what the significance of that was). Then, we all took turns jumping over our bonfire, which, according to legend, gives more strength to the sun, which loses hours of light as the summer progresses. Thousands of bonfires dot the Spanish coastlines, and it is truly a sight to see.
We were advised not to bring anything valuable since it is so crowded, so unfortunately I do not have any of my own pictures. My friend took a few, which I will post once she downloads them. For now, here is a picture from the Internet that gives you the idea!
The remainder of the week I was busy writing essays before leaving for Portugal on Friday, which I will post about later!