Millions in Spain Observe Saint John’s Day as Public Holiday
Millions of people in Catalonia, the Valencian Community, and Galicia are observing a public holiday on June 24 to celebrate the feast of Saint John and the arrival of summer.
June 24 marks a public holiday for millions across Spain. According to the Directorate General for Labor, the feast of Saint John—which falls on a Wednesday this year—is an official day off in Catalonia, the Valencian Community, and Galicia.
This holiday affects roughly 16 million people, meaning about one in three Spaniards will have the day off. Spain’s labor calendar includes 14 public holidays in total: eight national, four regional, and two local. Because of this, several other municipalities and towns, such as Ciutadella, will also observe the day as a holiday.
Beyond its administrative status, the date holds deep cultural significance. While the Catholic Church recognizes it as a saint’s day, the celebration is rooted in ancient solstice traditions. The custom of lighting bonfires on the eve of the holiday remains a powerful way for communities to mark the arrival of summer.
For many workers, having a holiday in the middle of the week offers a chance to create a "long weekend." Those with the flexibility to take two extra days of leave can turn the holiday into a five-day break. As this period coincides with the official start of summer, it serves as an important time for many to balance their work commitments with leisure and seasonal traditions.