How to Celebrate Fete De La Saint Jean in France
In France, the Fete de la Saint Jean is celebrated on June 24 by lighting large fires, feasting and drinking. This celebration marks the passing of the summer solstice, also know as midsummer's day. Lighting fires has now become a symbol of the light of Christ as ushered in by Saint John (Jean) the Baptist. This festival is also held in the French-founded nation of Quebec in North America. In Quebec and other areas of Canada, the festival has become a national holiday.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Gather materials for the large evening bonfire. In France, the fire structure, which is sometimes called a "chavanade," is built during the day to be lit by the entire town at night.
-
2
Contact the local town's mayor to find out where and when the chavanade is to be built. Typically, the building up of the pyre is an event in which the entire town participates.
-
-
3
Dress in layers of clothing. Although the Fete de la Saint Jean occurs in the summer, festivities and parties can last long into the night and early morning, so you will need to be able to adapt your clothing to the weather.
-
4
Save up plenty of money. The Fete de la Saint Jean is celebrated throughout France by partying at a variety of restaurants and bars. Tourists often join in the festivities, so prices can be a bit higher for food and drink during this time.
-
5
Check with the town tourism information center about traditional clothing. Some towns require that participants in the Fete de la Saint Jean dress specially. In Saint Jean de Luz, everyone must dress in the colors red and black.
-
6
Brush up your understanding of French patriotic songs. Singing patriotic songs has long been a traditional way to celebrate the Fete de la Saint Jean.
-
7
Bring a small bell with you to celebrate the festival at parades. Bell ringing is a very traditional way to ring in the solstice and will show others that you have researched the event.
-
8
Eat a light lunch on the day of the festival. Feasting is the most common way to celebrate the Fete de la Saint Jean in France, so you should be prepared to taste many of the town's best dishes during the evening.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you have children, arrange for a babysitter for the evening. The celebrations often last late into the night and involve drinking and other activities unsuitable for kids.
Wear flame-resistant clothing, especially if you will be attending a festival in a smaller village or town. Smaller towns tend to allow you to get closer to the actual fire.
