From 20 to 24 June, the hermitage of San Juan opens its doors to welcome the pilgrimage that takes place during these days. Tables are set up outside the hermitage and meals are organised. It is typical to distribute cakes among the diners as a way of celebrating. During these days, masses are also held in honour of Saint John, where passages of this apostle are repeated. There are also open-air dances, fireworks and typical and traditional games.
Festivity of San Juan
In Alicante, the festival of San Juan is very popular. The famous bonfires of San Juan are held in his honour. This festivity is celebrated on 23rd June, and in most cities and towns in the province of Alicante, during the week prior to this, all kinds of events and festivities take place, as well as an offering of flowers in honour of the saint. All of this is carried out by the different commissions that are called “fogueres” (bonfires). These bonfires make wooden and cork structures that are treated and painted, very similar to the famous fallas of Valencia. Nowadays in Denia there is only one of these commissions and the festivity is very simple.
On a private level, the citizens of Denia have the tradition of going to the beach at sunset and getting together with friends and family on the eve of Saint John’s Day. This night is called San Juan night, where it is typical to build a small bonfire with sticks and wood to light it. This creates a very beautiful image of the beach, as at nightfall a series of bonfires appear in the darkness, illuminating the beach.
People dine and enjoy the night, but at 00:00h, the day of San Juan, people come to the shore to get their feet wet. Some people jump the waves or throw coins into the sea to make a wish. Once their feet are wet, people jump over the bonfires to invoke good luck. There are also people who write wishes on papers and burn them in the bonfire. The traditions are varied on this night.