The festival of Sant Joan is made up of three days: the “Diumenge des Be” day, which we talked about in the previous article, the vigil and the day of Sant Joan. This time we are going to dive into possibly the most important festivities in Menorca. On the 23rd and 24th of June, the most eagerly awaited and exciting celebrations of the year take place. These festivities attract a large number of visitors to the island from all over the world.
The vigil, the eve of Saint John’s Eve
The festivities begin on 23rd June, known as the “Dissabte de Sant Joan”. At two o’clock in the afternoon, the “Fabioler” asks permission at the palace of the “Caixer Senyor”, the highest authority of the “qualcada” and representative of the aristocracy, to officially begin the festivities. This act, known as the “Primer toc”, is charged with emotion and symbolises the start of the celebrations with the first sound of the flute and drum.
This is followed by the “replec”, where the “Fabioler”, leading a retinue, collects the different components of the “Qualcada de cavallers”, “cavalcada” or “cabalgada”. With the cavalcade of knights formed, the flag of Sant Joan is handed over to the “Caixer Fadrí”. This is a crucial moment, as it marks the formal start of the parades and events that will take place over the following days.
Caragol des Born and the Pilgrimage
The streets of the centre of Ciutadella are dominated by the horses and their respective riders carrying them on two legs, or doing “bots” (jumps).
One of the most outstanding events of the day is the “Caragol des Born”, after gathering all the “Caixers”, the festival of Sant Joan moves to the Plaça des Born.
At exactly six o’clock sharp, the “Caixer Senyor” and the chaplain, representing the Church in the “Qualcada”, gallop into the square from the Cathedral, marking the start of the “Caragol des Born”. The first and third rounds are performed to the traditional music of the Jaleo.
In the afternoon, the celebration moves to the small chapel of Sant Joan, located about three kilometres from Ciutadella. Here, a mass is held in honour of the saint, followed by a meal and drinks to regain strength before returning to the village. At the same time, in the Avenida de la Constitución “Sa Contramurada” and the palm tree square, the traditional hazelnut “war” takes place, a playful and colourful event.
The night of Sant Joan
At dusk, the horsemen return to the town to take part in the “Caragol de Ses Voltes”, a route through the narrow, beautiful medieval streets of the town centre. The day concludes with the “Corregudes” (races) in the Cathedral square and the “Caragol de Santa Clara” in the convent of the same name, where the riders and horses go around the streets of Ciutadella and enter people’s houses. It is a suitable moment for all ages.
The night ends with the traditional “Beguda de Caixers” in the palace of the “Caixer Senyor” and a farewell that lasts until the early hours of the morning.
Sant Joan’s Day
The 24th of June, the day of Sant Joan, begins early with the “Fabioler” asking permission again at the palace of the “Caixer Senyor”. The day continues with a series of festive events including the “Missa de Caixers” in the Cathedral, where the participants gather for a religious ceremony followed by a drink of “Caixers” and knights at the home of the “Caixer Capellà”.
Medieval Tournaments and Games
In the afternoon, the cavalcade forms up again to go to the port, where the “Jocs des Pla” are held. The Games are the recreation of the medieval games in this area of the port of Ciutadella where thousands of people gather. There are three different games:
- Breaking the carotes: Two horsemen gallop along, one holding a caricature on a wooden shield, while the other tries to break it with an earthenware jug.
- Correr l’ensortilla: Horsemen try to hit a small ring with a lance while galloping.
- Running embraced: Two horsemen, usually related, run at a gallop, embracing and kissing each other on the cheek.
After the games, the knights return to the village for a last round of “ses corregudes” and “caragols” before the final farewell.
Gastronomy of Sant Joan
During the festivities, it is traditional to enjoy the “Gin amb Llimonada”, a typical drink of Ciutadella, and the Coca de Sant Joan, a sweet bread that is accompanied with hot chocolate and is a typical breakfast during the festivities.
The Sant Joan festivities in Ciutadella are not only a celebration of Menorcan tradition and culture, but also an opportunity to enjoy the local community, music and gastronomy – an unforgettable experience for all who attend!
The end of the festivities
The Sant Joan festivities officially conclude on 25th June with an impressive fireworks display in the Plaça des Born, followed by a concert, offering a spectacular closing to these celebrations.
Further information and advice
For those who wish to delve deeper into the history and traditions of these festivities, the Can Saura Museum in Ciutadella offers a permanent exhibition and an interesting documentary on the festivities.
Tips to make the most of the party:
- Book your holiday accommodation in advance: To avoid running out of options and the abusive prices of hotels, look for accommodation on our website in good time. The festival is very popular and attractive, so the city will be completely full of people.
- Restaurant reservations: If there are any restaurants you want to try, make sure you book in advance to guarantee a table.
- Precautions in the Caragol d’es Born: This area can be dangerous due to the large number of people. Extreme caution is essential, especially if you are travelling with children.
- Respect for the horses: During the fiesta there will be many horses, and the Menorcans will always ask you to respect them.
With all this information, you are now ready to go to Menorca and enjoy the big party! We are waiting for you.
