THE NIGHT OF ST. JOHN IN VIGO

On the night of 23 to 24 June, thousands of bonfires light up the night of St. John to celebrate the arrival of the summer solstice. The gentle night arrives, a celebration full of rituals, traditions, beliefs and superstitions, and as we say in Galicia meigas, habelas, hailas. Here you have the 5 experiences you cannot miss:

PREPARING THE CACHO

As per tradition, to prepare the cacho you must get water from seven fountains and add the herbs of St. John, that vary according to the zones, but these are fundamental: verbena, mint, peppermint, honeysuckle, rosemary, wild chamomile or arnica montana.

The cacho has to be left outside all night, to add on the morning dew. Cleaning yourself next morning with this water is a beauty and cleansing ritual; it is said to help on removing the evil eye and casting away the bad fortune and witches.

JUMP OVER THE BONFIRE

On the previous days, the neighbours of each zone gather old junk made of wood to burn them on the night of St. John. These fires are believed to have powers of protection and good fortune. The ritual states you have to jump over the bonfire three times. This is an act only for the brave so, in case you do not dare to jump over the big bonfire, do it over the smaller ones that are prepared for that occasion.

EATING GRILLED SARDINES

On this magical night it’s impossible to miss the grilled sardines with a pinch of sea salt, over a piece of corn or rye bread along with a good wine. You can taste this summer delicacy in many of the neighbourhoods of the city and their delicious smell will lead you to them.

ENJOYING THE QUEIMADA

You cannot miss a good queimada in Galicia on the night of St. John. It is a “magic potion” prepared on a clay pot with spirit, lemon and sugar. Its preparation is another ritual you must not miss: the spirit is burnt by moving the flames with a big spoon while pronouncing its incantation. This drink cannot be taken on an empty stomach and that is why it is the perfect digestive for the traditional sardines.

BATHING ON THE SEA AT NIGHT

Water is another essential element during this night. Bathing on the sea during the night of St. John is said to provide health all year long and fun to the participants.