The Night of San Juan is a popular festival celebrated every year in Dénia. This festival, which takes place on the night of 23 June, marks the beginning of summer and is associated with rituals and beliefs that date back to ancient times. The inhabitants of Dénia gather to celebrate this special occasion with bonfires, fireworks and traditional dances.
The origins of Denia’s Midsummer Eve
Midsummer’s Eve has pagan origins that date back to ancient times. In ancient times, this festival was celebrated as a rite to celebrate the summer solstice and the end of sowing. People believed that bonfires had magical powers and could purify the air and protect crops from disease and crop failure.
Midsummer Night traditions of Denia
Midsummer’s Eve celebrations in Denia are marked by several traditions. The city’s inhabitants light bonfires on the beaches and hills and jump over the flames to purify themselves and protect themselves from disease and bad luck. The fires are also used to burn effigies representing evil figures or negative events of the past year.
In addition, the festival in honour of San Juan has always been celebrated with numerous activities at the hermitage of San Juan in Montgó Park, including lunches, popular dinners, open-air dances and even a pilgrimage and other religious events.
Food and drink on Denia’s Midsummer Eve
Midsummer’s Eve is also an opportunity to enjoy traditional dishes and drinks that are typical of Denia’s gastronomy. The people of Dénia prepare dishes such as paella and grilled sardines, accompanied by local wines and the famous horchata. On this night, people gather to eat, drink and sing together.
Fireworks on Denia’s Midsummer’s Eve
The night of San Juan is also marked by spectacular fireworks. Fireworks are launched from the city’s beaches and hills, lighting up the night sky in brilliant colours. The people of Denia gather on the beaches to admire the spectacle and celebrate together.