June 23: Nit de Sant Joan – The Night of Fire
The revelry begins on June 23rd, the shortest night of the year, when Palma becomes the beating heart of the festivities. From early evening, the Parc de la Mar, nestled beneath the gothic splendour of La Seu Cathedral, buzzes with anticipation.
Family Activities and Folklore:
Workshops and children’s activities kick off the evening, alongside traditional dances that honour the island’s rural heritage.
The Correfoc:
At around 11 PM, the real magic begins. The correfoc, or "fire-run", sees colles de dimonis—troupes of “devils”—swarm the park, brandishing flaming torches and pyrotechnic pitchforks. Accompanied by mythical beasts like the Drac de Na Coca and dragons of Sant Jordi, the fiery parade creates a surreal, thrilling spectacle. Visitors are welcome to participate—either keeping a safe distance or joining the frenzy in flame-proof clothing.
Bonfires, Drums & Dance:
As sparks fly, batucada drummers fuel the chaos with relentless samba rhythms, while small bonfires cast dancing shadows over the crowd. The entire city seems to throb in sync with the music and flames.
Midnight Sea Rituals:
Come midnight, attention shifts to the beaches. In a powerful symbolic act, crowds plunge into the sea for a cleansing midnight swim—a ritual said to wash away bad luck and open the door to a fresh start. Wishes are whispered to the waves, candles flicker in the darkness, and the mood is both wild and reflective.
By Claire Miller
The Festa de Sant Joan (Feast of Saint John) traces its roots back to pagan solstice rituals that celebrated fire, fertility, and purification. With the Christianisation of the Iberian Peninsula, these rites were absorbed into the liturgical calendar and associated with Saint John the Baptist. Today, it is both a religious and deeply cultural event, marked across the Mediterranean with unique local variations.
On Mallorca, the celebration reflects the island’s layered identity—blending Catalan traditions, folklore, and a love for communal gatherings that stretch long into the night.
The Festa de Sant Joan | Sant Joan Festival, Island-wide
23 -24 June 2025
As the golden light of summer reaches its peak, Mallorca prepares to honour one of its most electrifying and deeply rooted celebrations: Festa de Sant Joan. Each year on the 23rd and 24th of June, this two-day festival sets the island ablaze with ancient rituals, modern revelry, and a powerful sense of community. For residents and visitors alike, it’s a chance to embrace tradition, dance with devils, and cleanse the soul—Mallorcan style.
June 24: Dia de Sant Joan – A Day to Celebrate
The next day brings a shift in tempo, but not in spirit. The Dia de Sant Joan is a more laid-back continuation of the celebration, ideal for recovering from the night before.
Live Music by the Sea:
On Palma’s beachfront, a musical fair welcomes everyone with live bands and DJs, providing the perfect soundtrack for a relaxed day in the sun. Locals and visitors mingle, picnic, and dance barefoot on the sand.
Though Palma hosts the most spectacular events, the Sant Joan spirit is island-wide. Each town adds its own flavour—from intimate beach bonfires in Alcúdia to traditional dances in Artà.
Local Bonfires & Gatherings:
In coastal villages and hidden coves, families set up candles, barbecues, and picnic feasts. Children run barefoot, sparklers in hand, while adults share stories under the stars.
Another Midnight Dip:
The midnight swim returns, especially in quieter corners of the island. Some follow the tradition of entering the sea while holding a candle, eyes to the sky, whispering a wish into the wind.
Whether you're a seasoned visitor or experiencing it for the first time, the Festa de Sant Joan 2025 offers an authentic taste of Mallorcan culture—equal parts mythical, musical, and magical. Join the celebrations on June 23rd and 24th, and let fire, water, and community spirit usher you into summer.
Pro Tip: Wear natural fabrics, bring swimwear, and don’t forget your sense of adventure. You’ll need it.