The festival of San Juan in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Tradition, fire and magic
On the night of June 23, the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is filled with magic and emotion with the celebration of the San Juan festival. This festivity, rooted in Canarian tradition, commemorates the summer solstice and is one of the most anticipated and colorful celebrations on the island. In this article, we will explore the history, traditions and vibrant energy that surrounds the fiesta de San Juan in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
History and meaning:
The festival of San Juan has its roots in the ancient pagan celebrations that honored the sun and marked the beginning of summer. With the advent of Christianity, the holiday merged with the commemoration of Saint John the Baptist, giving rise to a unique blend of religious and folkloric traditions.
The night of San Juan is considered magical and full of symbolism. It is believed that fire purifies and renews energy, and the bonfires lit on the beaches and squares of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria are the epicenter of the celebration.
Traditions and rituals:
The festival of San Juan in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is characterized by a series of traditions and rituals rooted in Canarian culture. Some of them include:
Bonfires: Bonfires are the heart of the celebration. People gather around the fire to jump over it, symbolizing purification and the removal of bad omens.
Quema de júas: The júas are dolls made of rags, paper or straw that represent popular figures or current characters. These dolls are burned in the bonfires, symbolizing the elimination of the negative and the beginning of a new cycle.
Midnight baths: Many people take advantage of the night of San Juan to take a bath in the sea at midnight. The water is believed to have purifying and healing properties on this special night.
Firecrackers and Fireworks: Firecrackers and fireworks light up the night sky and add a festive and spectacular touch to the celebration.
Traditional music and dances: During the San Juan festival, you can listen and enjoy traditional Canarian music and typical dances that fill the atmosphere with joy and folklore.
La fiesta de San Juan in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a unique experience that combines ancient traditions, spirituality and fun. The fire, the bonfires, the rituals and the contagious energy of this celebration make it a magical night full of emotion. If you have the opportunity to visit Las Palmas de Gran Canaria during the San Juan festival, you will immerse yourself in an unforgettable cultural experience that will connect you with the roots and ancestral spirit of the city.