San Juan is celebrated throughout Mallorca and indeed many other parts of Spain. It is a celebration of the shortest night of the year, the summer solstice. The event takes different forms in different locations – all however based around the central features of the sun, fire and water.
There are beach parties with bonfires, and celebrations in many towns with fireworks, fire runners (“Correfoc”) and music ranging from local folk bands to more popular and modern music.
In Palma de Mallorca the San Juan celebrations this year were in their usual location of Parc de Mar in front of Palma Cathedral.
Starting with folk music and dancing at 9pm, at 10.30 the entertainment moved on to the Correfoc and fireworks which were the centrepiece of the evening. Following this there was more music continuing through to the early hours.
Correfoc – the fire runners
The word Correfoc comes from “Correr” – to run, and “foc”, which is fire in Catalan. Correfocs are spectacular events whereby “fire devils” run through the streets and interact with the crowds whilst playing with fire staffs and various fireworks.
The devils are playful sprites rather than evil spirits – they taunt the crowd in a playful fashion, usually to the hypnotic sound of drums and demonic chanting. Whilst the Correfoc looks decidedly dangerous and it is best to be reasonably cautious while watching or taking part – there are generally few accidents and injuries are slight!
Photo gallery – San Juan, Palma de Mallorca, 23.06.09 (18 photos)
