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Sant Joan (B)

 Every year on the night of 23 June, people in Catalonia celebrate Sant Joan , one of the most important cultural festivals in the region. Streets, beaches, and public squares in Barcelona are full of fireworks, music, food, and large gatherings. The festival takes place near the summer solstice , the longest day of the year. It marks the start of summer and is often called the most magical night of the year. Sant Joan is connected to Saint John the Baptist , but its origins are older than Christianity. In ancient times, people believed fire was powerful. They used it to clean away bad energy, protect communities, and welcome new beginnings. One of the main traditions is the bonfire . People gather around big fires that symbolise light and hope. Some people write wishes on paper and throw them into the fire to leave problems behind. Fireworks are also very important and make the night exciting. Families and friends eat coca de Sant Joan , a traditional cake with fruit or nuts. ...

SANT JOAN

Every year on the night of 23 June, people across Catalonia celebrate Sant Joan, one of the region’s most important cultural occasions. The streets, beaches, and public squares of Barcelona fill with fireworks, music, food, and large social gatherings. Taking place close to the summer solstice , the celebration marks the arrival of summer and is widely regarded as the shortest and most magical night of the year. Although the event is associated with Saint John the Baptist, its roots are much older than Christianity. Historians believe many of its traditions originated from ancient European celebrations linked to nature and seasonal change. These early societies viewed fire as a powerful force capable of helping people purify themselves, protect their communities, and welcome periods of renewal . As Christianity spread throughout Europe, many of these older beliefs were absorbed into religious celebrations while retaining their original symbolism . One of the most recognizable features...