Saint John's Eve Bonfire Night on Garbi Beach

The Catalans take their shortest night of the year seriously, and La Ràpita does it on the sand. Things kick off around half six when the Canigó flame arrives in the square, carried down from the Pyrenees to light fires all over Catalonia. From there a procession of giant figures and drummers winds through the streets to Parc del Garbí, where there's a flame ceremony and a performance from the giants at eight.

The bit worth turning up for is the communal supper at nine: bread and sausage for two euros a head, eaten at long tables by the water (you can book one ahead). The bonfire itself goes up at midnight, then the Vendetta Show orchestra plays from half twelve and a DJ takes over until it gets light. Warm night, sea air, a proper crowd. No ticket needed, just show up.