St. John’s Day is an ancient holiday in Slovakia, which is celebrated on June 24, the summer solstice. It is dedicated to the glorification of the sun and sunlight and warmth.
During pagan times, the solstice day (the longest day of daylight of the year) played an important role in people’s lives. The sun was a symbol of light, warmth and goodness that conquers darkness. Despite the fact that these times have long since passed into history, the tradition of celebrating this day has been preserved among many peoples of Europe, but it has acquired Christian features.
On the night before St. John’s Day, Slovaks gather in large groups outside the city, knock down wooden crosses on which they hang a wheel (symbol of the sun) and, when darkness comes, set them on fire. Dances and round dances are held around such a fire. Girls and boys jump over the fire, which means cleansing and healing.
Other rituals that are characteristic of the Slavs in general are also popular among the Slovaks: girls weave wreaths and throw them into the water or throw them into trees, thus telling fortunes about their betrothed. The herbs and dew collected that night are credited with healing powers.
In large cities of Slovakia (Kosice, Bratislava) concerts of musicians and folk groups can be held.
