Of the many festivals we celebrate throughout the year in Barcelona, none is as famous as La Nit de Sant Joan.
Falling on the night of June 23, the city lights up with bonfires, firecrackers and fireworks as we celebrate the summer solstice, the longest day of the year.
But what to do on Sant Joan in Barcelona?
I've put together a list of things you need to know about this holiday!
Sant Joan: article summary
Sant Joan: head for the beach
If you're in Barcelona on Sant Joan night, most locals will tell you that the beach is the place to be. Bring a picnic, don't forget the Cava and join in the local festivities as you and thousands of others watch the fireworks soar over the water.
Visit Barceloneta beach is the ideal place to enjoy this festival, in my opinion. In fact, you can arrive a little early and take advantage of the various restaurants on site. Then all you have to do is have a good time in front of the various beach lights. In any case, I advise you to arrive before sunset to get a good seat!
Taking the high road
If you'd like to attend Sant Joan in Barcelona, but prefer to get away from the crowds, I'd recommend a bit of height. An ideal place to watch the fireworks without too many people is at Montjuic Castle.
Pack a picnic or head for one of our favorite spots in town, La Caseta del Migdia, which makes its summer inauguration on Sant Joan night. A barbecue, a bar and great views - what more could you ask for?
If you want to enjoy a delicious cocktail as a couple or with friends, I'd recommend heading to Barcelona's rooftops. There are many bars on Barcelona's rooftops and it won't be hard to find the right one for you! You'll have a great time while enjoying the festivities.
Sant Joan: getting out of town
The whole of Catalonia celebrates Sant Joan, and sometimes it's the small towns that organize the biggest parties! Sant Joan is the perfect excuse to take a trip outside Barcelona.
You'll be able to get close to the local culture and discover new things from the inhabitants of the villages around Barcelona. For a picturesque experience, I recommend Castelldefels. The atmosphere you'll find in this small village just a few minutes from Barcelona, is sure to give you a change of scene!
Organizing a barbecue
A sign that summer has begun, you can enjoy a barbecue and eat some grilled botis! As this is a festival associated with fire, it's the perfect time to enjoy a delicious Catalan barbecue with friends.
Botifarra (or boti for short!) is a delicious Catalan and Spanish sausage. a must for every barbecue in Barcelona. You'll find merendero in every corner of Barcelona. These are public spaces equipped with barbecues, and many are accessible by public transport.
If you prefer to enjoy this delicious dish in a traditional Catalan restaurant, you won't have to look far either. Indeed, many establishments feature this marvel on their menus during the Sant Joan celebrations. On the beach, it doesn't take long to find a stand offering this dish.
Eat a Coke
Beyond the picnics and barbecues, a Sant Joan celebration wouldn't be complete without the traditional coca, a flat, crunchy brioche typical of this festival. Although there are many different types of coca, almost all of them contain aniseed, pine nuts and candied fruit.
Look for them in pastry shop windows. You can't party in Barcelona without devouring a few.
If you're passing through town during the Sant Joan festival, I'd advise you to stop off for a while and take in all that the place has to offer. You're sure to spend a great time in Catalonia's most beautiful city.
Leave a Reply