Summer is one of our favorite seasons. Period.
Long and sunny days, lying on the beach, having ice cream, forgetting about appointments and deadlines, living life in a more laid-back style, getting a tan, and the list could go on and on and on.
Valencia, where AIP Languages is located, is a coastal city bathed by the Mediterranean sea where summer is an incredible experience. And one of the highlights during summer in Valencia is St. John’s Eve. This magical night is the perfect summer kick-off festival with its bonfires, fireworks display, and rituals. If you happen to be in the city of Valencia on June 23rd, then you can’t miss out on this celebration!
We really want you to have an amazing night and in order to help you understand this festival a bit more, we have prepared a guide including the basics to make the most out of St. John’s Eve.
1.- PLAN AHEAD – First, make sure you know how to get to the beach and that you know the special public transport timetables for this day – they aren’t the regular ones! -, and try to get there in time to grab a good spot. Hundreds of people flock to the beach year after year to celebrate this festival and… you know, the early bird catches the worm. In addition, make sure you don’t try to get all the food and drinks you need last minute as supermarket may run out of some of the things you may be looking for.
2.- BONFIRE – If you don’t have much experience making bonfires, we strongly recommend not making one! Anyway, if you decide to take the risk, don’t forget to bring wood with you. But this is such a bummer! So, why not use the excuse of not having a bonfire to get to talk to new people and making your night more interesting?
3.- SWIMSUIT & BEACH BAG – The essence of this night is that when midnight strikes everyone seeking for good luck should head to the shore and jump 3 waves. After each jump, you get to make a wish for the summer. Think them through! If you are wearing your swimsuit, it certainly simplifies things. But, of course, there is no dress code for this and everyone should feel free to jump the waves rocking their own style. Our piece of advice: dress for success!
Apart from the jump outfit, don’t forget to pack the necessary for a nice stay at the beach.
4.- WATCH YOUR STUFF – Hundreds of people constantly on the move, alcohol, a bit of darkness, fire… Everything sounds super cool but it also provides the best scenario for thieves and pickpocketers. Never leave your bags and possessions out of sight and make sure no one starts digging in your bags without your permission.
5.- THIS IS NOT ‘WIPEOUT’ – nor ‘Jackass’, so forget about jumping the fire if you want to keep all your skin exactly where it is. You may see people jumping bonfires or walking on ember but under no circumstances try to follow their example. Alcohol makes us do stupid things but you don’t want to end up in hospital, right?
With these basic 5 steps, you are more than ready to enjoy St. John’s Eve and start an incredible summer with the best of luck. See you in water!
