We just found out that next Friday - June 23 when we are in Barcelona it's going to be San Juan day. We asked our hotel to get dinner reservations and they e-mailed me back saying that they did and it was a restaurant on the water so we could see the "firewalls" and rockets and all the celebrating going on down at the beach. After the soccer "riots" a few weeks ago we are afraid of rockets and firewalls in the streets. Should we go into this area ? Anyone know what this is about ?

Las Fiestas de San Juan that I knew as a child started the Eve of June 23rd and were in honor of St. John the Baptist. We used to head out to the beach (Fisherman = water body) and at midnight jump in the water backwards to cleanse all bad spirits (sooooo much fun!!; am still trying to figure out what that had to do with St. John the Baptist! ). I believe the Fiestas de san Juan in barcelona are mostly celebrating the beginning of the Summer and hence, the shortest night of the year (most lighted day = Baptism). Sweet memories!!

It has nothing to do with "riots". It's just an ancient tradition in most places in Spain, see it like the 4th of July fireworks It's held on the beach and it's fun to see. Don't worry at all. Also, not as many people as in a football celebration

Thanks guys - maybe we should go to the waterfront restaurant !

JerseySue-- your hotel habe been very gracious in choosing a waterfront restaurant; I don't think they would had put you on harm's way. Have fun!

Thanks Viajero - have you heard of the restaurant La Gavina ? That's the one they have us at.

Yes, I heard of La Gavina, my friend just came back in April from Barcelona and raved about this restaurant's seafood, pizza, and the view. You are in for a treat! . It also has a great reputation among locals, always a good sign.