The Nit de Sant Joan from the Catalan “night of St. John” is a magical moment that marks the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. In Mallorca, this festivity comes alive with a unique intensity, filling the streets with tradition, fire and joy. From the vibrant city of Palma to the picturesque beaches of Alcudia, the island lights up with the flames of the Sant Joan celebration.
When is the Night of Sant Joan 2024?
The Night of Sant Joan is celebrated on the night of June 23rd to 24th, coinciding with the summer solstice. This moment marks the highest point of the sun in the sky and the longest days of the year, so this night is known as the shortest of the year.
History of Sant Joan 2024
This festivity has its roots in ancient pagan rituals of purification and protection during the summer solstice that honored the sun and sought to ensure abundance and protection. Over time, they were integrated with Christian celebrations in honor of St. Juan Bautista.
The bonfires were believed to drive away evil spirits and purify the environment, ensuring a good harvest and protecting people from disease and misfortune.
Where is Sant Joan celebrated in Mallorca?
In Mallorca, the Night of Sant Joan is breathed with an overflowing passion that extends throughout the island, but finds its maximum expression in places like Palma and Playa de Palma. However, the festive spirit is also present in the charming villages of Calvià, Sant Joan, Muro and Deià, where local traditions mingle with the hustle and bustle of the celebration.
In places like Pollença, Can Picafort or Alcudia, although the festivity does not acquire the same magnitude, the inhabitants opt for a more intimate celebration. They move to the charming beaches to enjoy a serene dinner, away from the hustle and bustle, while the gentle whisper of the sea accompanies their evening. The coasts become the ideal setting to welcome the summer in the company of loved ones. It is a night to taste, toast and share laughter in honor of San Juan. And, of course, we can not forget the tradition: at 12 o’clock at night, dive into the sea, at least up to the feet, as a symbolic gesture of purification and renewal.
Celebrations in the Towns of Mallorca
- In Palma
In Palma, the city becomes a living stage full of shrill sounds, torches and dimonis that cross the Parc del Mar under the shadow of the majestic Cathedral. This unique festival captivates all who have the privilege of witnessing it.
The heart of the celebration is in the Parc de la Mar, where the crowds anxiously await the appearance of the dimonis. These mysterious beings emerge between the park’s viaducts in a dazzling display of fire and juggling to the rhythm of a batucada that seems to bring with it echoes of the underworld.
The correfoc, as this spectacle is known, invites attendees to decide whether to flee or join the frenzied dance around the blazing fire. At around 11 p.m., the dimonis retreat and the crowds make their way to the nearest beach, where they light small bonfires and, at the stroke of midnight, coinciding with the summer solstice, dive into the water to make a wish, following an ancient tradition. Sant Joan is celebrated all over the island, but in Palma, the spectacle is especially impressive.
- In Calvia
In Calvià, June 24th is a festive date in honor of San Joan Baptista, patron saint of the municipality. In the heart of Calvià, homage is paid to the Third Age with a special mass and lively performances of regional dances. Since the fifties, this tradition includes a gesture of appreciation towards the neighbors of 75 years old or more, inviting them to enjoy a glass of almond ice cream with ensaimada. It is a celebration rooted in the community, recognizing and celebrating local roots with love and gratitude.
- In Sant Joan
In Sant Joan, Mallorca, the Festa de Sant Joan Baptista is the most outstanding event of the year. In addition, the peculiar Sol que Balla, organized by the fathers and mothers of the town, is celebrated. This festivity, which coincides with the birth of St. John the Baptist on June 24, attracts thousands of visitors who enjoy various activities over several days. From the mass in honor of the saint to the procession through the streets, and the traditional ‘correguda de joies‘, where young people compete for a flag representing the patron saint. There are also concerts, verbenas, sporting and cultural events for all tastes, culminating with the spectacular ‘Nit de Foc‘, a night of fireworks that light up the sky of Sant Joan.
- In Muro
The distinctive scent of the lime trees in the main square marks the arrival of June in Muro, heralding the start of the celebrations for the patron saint’s festivities of Sant Joan. These festivities, which are notable for the active participation of the community, extend over fifteen days, culminating on June 24 with a spectacular fireworks display on Paseo de Sa Riba.
The festival program includes a wide variety of sporting and cultural activities that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city. Among them, the popular verbenas offer the opportunity to enjoy open-air dinners and participate in the traditional verbena of the 40 laps, an endurance test that challenges you to do 40 laps around the Plaza Mayor.
- In Deià
In Deià, in honor of Sant Joan, patron saint of the town, we prepare festivities that seek to enrich the experience for all audiences. Maintaining a balance between our roots and modernity, we offer fresh and stimulating activities for children, young and old.
The celebration culminates on June 24 with an emotional procession, where the community gathers to walk together from the town hall to the church of San Juan Bautista, where a Eucharist is celebrated in honor of the patron saint. It is a moment of union and gratitude to those who have contributed to form the history and identity of our beloved municipality.
Rituals and traditions of Sant Joan in Mallorca
The Night of Sant Joan is full of rituals, as it is also known as the night of witches, from lighting bonfires to jumping over the fire, writing wishes on paper and burning them, all in the hope of purifying and renewing the spirit for the year ahead. The atmosphere is filled with music, laughter and the smell of delicious barbecue as families and friends gather to celebrate this special night.
Another tradition is to make a wish into the sea when the clock strikes midnight, everyone heads into the water with their wishes in mind. According to tradition, in order for the wishes to be granted, one must enter the water with their back turned, while holding a candle.
Other plans to celebrate the summer in Mallorca
The Noche de Sant Joan marks the beginning of a summer full of possibilities in Mallorca. From enjoying breathtaking sunsets to relaxing on the island’s terraces, there are endless ways to celebrate this special season on the island. Enjoy local gastronomy at beachfront restaurants, explore the island’s charming villages or dive into the crystal-clear waters of its beaches.
Experience the magic of Sant Joan in Mallorca!
Whatever your favorite way to celebrate, the Noche de Sant Joan is a special occasion that invites you to immerse yourself in the essence of Mallorca. From the exciting correfoc in the streets of Palma to the intimate candlelit dinners on the beaches of Alcúdia, every corner of the island is filled with energy and tradition during this festivity.
It is a time to connect with nature in the quiet coves and beaches, where the gentle murmur of the sea accompanies the celebrations. It is also an opportunity to share laughter and joy with family and friends around the lit bonfires, while the scent of gunpowder and the crackle of firewood fill the air with magic.
And if you are looking for the perfect accommodation to enjoy these festivities in Mallorca, Ideal Property Mallorca offers a wide selection of options to suit your needs and preferences. From cozy apartments to luxurious villas with sea views, you will find the ideal place to live an unforgettable experience during the Night of Sant Joan. Don’t hesitate to enjoy the magic of Mallorca with Ideal Property Mallorca as your ally in finding the perfect accommodation!
