


There, the Àliga and the Barcelona Giants will appear, mixing amongst the tourists and locals alike, all dancing to the rhythms of the Muntanyes del Canigó. Once you’re familiar with the most common terms, you’ll be ready to enjoy the party! Events begin on 23 June when the Canigó flame makes its way to Plaza de Sant Jaume. They are usually accompanied with a glass of moscatel or cava. – Coca de San Juan: a traditional sweet made with fruits, pine nuts and sometimes even pork crackling filled with cream or marzipan. – Revetlla de Sant Joan: the popular name for the Festival of San Juan in Barcelona, where neighbours, friends and family gather together around live music and bonfires. – Muntanyes del Canigó: a traditional Catalan song related to love and longing. The current image was created by Xavier Jansana and even has a dance of its own. – Àliga de la ciudad: appearing in the form of a bird and represented since the Middle Ages, this is part of the bestiary of Barcelona. At 00:01, just after midnight, the fire is distributed amongst those in charge of carrying torches to spread the flame throughout all the different neighbourhoods and the San Juan bonfires in the region. All year round, the fire remains lit at Perpiñán Castle and, on 22 June, a torch is carried all the way to the top of Canigó Mountain. The flame is a symbol for Catalan-speaking regions and their culture. – Llama del Canigó: literally meaning the Canigó flame, this is a ritual that began in 1955 after Francesc Pujades lit a fire on top of Canigó mountain, from which all the different bonfires to mark San Juan are lit. To kick off the San Juan rituals, we suggest you learn some of the most common terms around events, which will help you understand the meaning and significance of the night of San Juan in Barcelona: Bonfires on 24 June bring the party to its climax, an event rich in traditions and symbolism. Visiting Barcelona on the night of San Juan will mean you’ll get to know the authentic personality of the city through one of the most deeply-rooted traditions in the whole of Cataluña. One of the best ways to get to know a city, to truly immerse yourself in the local character, traditions and culture of its people, is to experience its most special festivals.
