Saint John's Festival in Montblanc

The San Juan festival in Montblanc has deep roots that date back to ancient folk traditions. In the past, on the eve of San Juan, residents would climb up to the San Juan shrine to celebrate the festivity together. The lighting of the large bonfire at the shrine marked the beginning of the festival and served as the signal for lighting the other bonfires in the surrounding villages. While the festival at the shrine took place around the fire, in the villages, residents would gather for communal dinners where cake, mistela, and fireworks ushered in a long night of celebration.

In recent years, the hermits of San Juan have revitalized this tradition, giving it a new lease of life. On the eve of the festival, the Canigó Flame reaches the hermitage to illuminate the shortest night of the year and keep the festival's symbolism alive. The day begins with a solemn mass, followed by a performance by the Montblanc Walking Stick Dance and the traditional flag exchange at the hermitage's viewing platform. At the same time, the Montblanc Athletic Club organizes a hill climb and a hike to the hermitage.

Don't miss it!