Information
- DateJune 23
- Municipality
- Apply
Bonfires, live music, and ancient Celtic traditions to welcome the summer just outside Madrid.
Get ready to experience one of the most magical, vibrant, and deep-rooted traditions in Spain! On the evening of Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026, the town of Alcobendas (located just north of Madrid city center) invites you to celebrate the Noche de San Juan (St. John's Eve)—the traditional welcoming of the summer solstice.
The town's Recinto Ferial (Fairgrounds) will transform into a lively festival filled with music, gastronomy, local crafts, and family-friendly workshops.
Festival Highlights & Celtic Magic:
- Galician Folk Music: Enjoy powerful live performances by Las Cantareiras and the traditional Bagpipe Band of the Xuntanza de Galegos.
- The Ritual of Queimada: Witness the ancient, mystical Galician ritual of Queimada—a flaming potion brewed while reciting a spell to ward off evil spirits. Visitors will get to taste it!
- Torchlight Parade & Live Orchestra: Watch the beautiful torchlight procession before dancing the night away with the energetic Orquesta Pikante.
- The Midnight Bonfires: The climax of the night! Join the locals around the massive bonfires for the traditional "San Juan Jump"—jumping over the embers to bring good luck for the year ahead.
Why You Should Experience It
If you want to step off the beaten tourist path and experience a true Spanish summer fiesta, this is your perfect chance. It’s a night of shared joy, mysticism, and incredible energy where travelers and locals come together to celebrate around the fire.
- When: Tuesday night, June 23rd, 2026.
- Where: Recinto Ferial (Fairgrounds), Alcobendas, Madrid (easily reachable via Metro Line 10 or Cercanías train).
- Admission: Free entry!
Bring your wishes written on a piece of paper to throw into the fire, and get ready to create unforgettable summer memories!
