The evening of San Juan holds great significance across various cultures. It signifies the official start of summer and marks the longest day and shortest night for those living in the northern hemisphere. This age-old event, with its ties to astronomy, has become deeply ingrained in Spanish culture and other European and Latin American countries.
On this occasion, people partake in different rituals to attract good fortune, bring closure to certain phases, and harmonize their energies with love and abundance. To achieve this, individuals leap over bonfire flames or take a midnight dip in the sea. Amidst these festivities, the community in Los Cristianos eagerly anticipates one of the most unusual events for seaside residents: San Juanito.
In every town, there is typically a figure who embodies the essence of that region. In Los Cristianos, that figure is Carmelo Hernández Delgado, a retired florist who is responsible for creating the San Juanito celebration. His floral shop in the Canarian Islands was a hub for numerous beach enthusiasts seeking not just flowers, but also insight.
Originally from Los Realejos but now residing in Los Cristianos, he has always viewed creativity as a means to unite cultures and societies.
“I purchased the Saint in Murcia 20 years ago. One day, I decided to bring it from its storage place to Los Cristianos. The principles of faith have always appealed to me: humility, assisting others, aiding the less fortunate…,” he elaborates.
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The San Juanito fiesta originated as a collective initiative amongst the locals, blending elements of spirituality and social cohesion. Initially a pagan celebration, it gradually took on religious undertones. “The statue was blessed by the priest, Don José Estévez. He is truly a saint.”
After more than a decade of observance, San Juanito has become a staple during the San Juan festivities at Los Cristianos Beach. The ritual involves parading the statue through the streets and its alcove. They transport it from the church and upon reaching Plaza de la Pescadora, they immerse the statue in the town’s waters. “The evening of San Juan is one of the most enchanting celebrations of the year. The beach, the locals, the grand festivities… It is a cultural spectacle. It belongs to us, the beach dwellers.” Following Carmelo’s retirement, the responsibility for the festival was passed on to someone else, a person he trusted. Carlos Gilberto Delgado Martín, the president of the Los Cristianos artists’ association, now oversees the statue and upholds Carmelo’s legacy. The transition was challenging, but Carlos understands that, as the saying goes, “every saint has their day.”
