After six years of traveling to Spain, I thought I’d experienced all that this festival-loving country had to offer. But there was a holiday I had yet to celebrate until last year. Noche de San Juan is often described as one of the most magical nights of the year in cities and towns along the coast. What is it and what makes it so special? Keep reading to find out!

What is Noche de San Juan?

Noche de San Juan marks the beginning of summer. It is mainly celebrated by cities and towns along the coast. Málaga, Barcelona, and San Sebastian are some of the bigger Spanish cities known for its celebrations, but pueblos will participate too.

On Noche de San Juan, friends and family gather at sundown on the beach. Traditionally they’ll make a bonfire, enjoy each other’s company, and take part in one of the night’s many rituals. These include jumping over the fire, writing a wish on a piece of paper and throwing it into the fire, and taking a swim at midnight.

When is Noche de San Juan?

Every June 23rd from sundown. The party usually goes all night long.

How is Noche San Juan celebrated in Málaga?

You’re sure to see family and friends celebrating Noche de San Juan on beaches in Málaga and along the Costa del Sol.

Playa de la Misericordia will have additional events planned, such as a concert and a giant bonfire. Here, the city burns a júa, which represents something to be left behind to make way for a fresh start in the second half of the year. In 2023 for example, Málaga decided to burn a júa of the city’s football club after a disappointing relegation to an inferior league. The bonfire is followed by a firework show. 

Like in other cities, people will jump into the sea at midnight, marking the start of summer and swimming season. It’s common for people to stay on the beach well after midnight and into the morning.

Tips for celebrating Noche de San Juan in Málaga

Last year was my first time attending festivities for Noche de San Juan in Málaga. Here are my recommendations to make the most of your night. 

Get there early: Spots on the beach fill up fast, so get there early. Some people lay out their towels at 4pm. I’d recommend arriving between 6-8pm.

Bring snacks: Locals will bring snacks and drinks to enjoy and pass the time.

Pack out your trash: That said, don’t litter! Gatherings on the beach unfortunately leave the sand strewn with plastic bags, bottles, and beer cans, which are detrimental to the environment. It’s extremely important to pack out your trash to keep the beaches and sea clean.

No bonfires: Fires on the beach are prohibited on Malaga’s city beaches.

Prepare for crowds: When thousands of people try to cram onto the same city beaches at the same time… well, you can imagine! This is one of the busiest nights in Málaga and the beaches and boardwalks will be packed.

Watch la velada: This is where the júa is lit on fire and burns in a giant bonfire. I think this tradition is fascinating! It’s especially interesting to see the structure and what the community deems worthy of being “left behind”.