Saint John’s Day

Every year the Monaco Town Hall, in collaboration with the Saint-Jean Club, is keeping tradition alive by organising two festive evenings to mark Saint John’s Day – a celebration of fire and light. The events combine religious ceremonies, Monegasque folklore and cultural discovery. This day is specifically consecrated to St. John the Baptist, by the Roman Catholic Church, who is one of the central characters of the Bible and Annunciator of the Coming of the Messiah. He symbolizes the start of summer and the joy it brings, as St. John’s Testimony emphasizes Light and the Holy Spirit.

Programme of 2026 celebrations:

Tuesday, June 23 – Palace Square
7:30 p.m.: Lighting of the “batafoegu” (a traditional bonfire) and folk dances by the dancers of La Palladienne.

Wednesday, June 24 – Place des Moulins (Mill Square)
7:20 p.m.: Departure of the traditional parade
7:30 p.m.: Religious service at Saint-Charles Church
8:15 p.m.: Blessing followed by the lighting of the “batafoegu,” musical entertainment by U Cantin d’A Roca, and traditional dances by La Palladienne and the Portuguese Folkloric Association of Monaco.

Make sure you attend St John’s Day festivities to celebrate the start of summer and joyful months to come in the right way!