Magical night of San Juan kicks off summer

THOUSANDS of people across the Axarquia and Costa Tropical called upon the patron saint San Juan on Tuesday (June 23) to bring the best of luck for the year. In keeping with tradition, the coasts filled up with music, drinks, sardine ‘espetos’ (skewers) and the indispensable bonfire.
The bravest ones jumped over the fires, and everyone took part in the highpoint of the night at midnight, with the traditional nocturnal swim – or a paddle, depending on one’s courage.
Carchuna, Calahonda and Torrenueva festivities were a delight for children as they were able to jump the night away on bouncy castles and also for youngsters with a foam party accompanied by electronic music.
The traditional ‘Bollo de San Juan,’ a bread roll with a baked egg in the middle, was savoured by many in Almuñecar and La Herradura, as it is a typical delicacy.
As many as 350 kilos of espetos were handed out on the El Copo beach in Torre del Mar and another 50 kilos in Benajarafe.
The strong wind and waves in Nerja did not scare away residents, who crowded the Burriana beach and enjoyed live music and an open-air party.
All in all, it was an enchanting soiree to welcome the summer and cast out the bad spirits.