Saint John’s Eve, a widely observed midsummer celebration, is traditionally held on June 23.
The date is the eve of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, whose feast day is June 24 in many Western Christian calendars. Because it falls close to the June solstice, the celebration became closely associated with midsummer customs such as bonfires, communal gatherings, music and dancing.
Saint John’s Eve is celebrated in many parts of Europe and Latin America, although local names and customs differ. In some places, the event is known by a regional form of “San Juan,” “São João” or “Jāņi.” These celebrations may include fireworks, processions, traditional foods and symbolic fires.
A common mix-up is confusing the eve with the feast itself: June 23 is Saint John’s Eve, while June 24 is Saint John the Baptist’s Day. The exact customs and calendar importance vary by country and religious tradition.