St. John’s Day. Coronation Day.

The eve of Sant Joan, June 23, is the shortest and most magical night of the year. In Villajoyosa, it’s a day full of traditions, especially for the little ones, with the beach and the sea serving as the main backdrops.

In the early afternoon, the beaches—especially Playa Centro—fill up with groups of friends and families getting ready to enjoy the busiest evening on the Viler coast. Some arrive loaded down with tables, chairs, and coolers; others simply bring a towel or beach mat, but none of them are without the traditional “sopar de cabasset”: pebrereta, rabbit in tomato sauce, Spanish omelets, sandwiches, pinchos, meat in sauce, and an endless array of tapas and culinary delights that turn the beach into a true celebration of the people.

As dinnertime approaches, activities for children multiply. Cooperative games and workshops are organized to keep the traditions of this evening alive, including the traditional “fanalets.” It’s customary for the youngest children to transform a watermelon into original and colorful handmade lanterns. Although many families make them at home, the City Council organizes workshops every year to create these traditional fanalets, which later take center stage in the traditional “Ronda de Fanalets” through the streets of the historic district.

Until a few years ago, it was also a tradition to cast a wreath of flowers into the sea in memory of those who set sail and never returned.

After observing the traditions, families and friends gather to share a dinner and wait for midnight, when many head to the shore to jump over the seven marors and make a wish.

A short night, yet one filled with rituals, tradition, and Mediterranean magic.