San Juan brings fire, water and some of Puerto de la Cruz’s most memorable local traditions together at the start of summer. Around 23 June, the town’s historic chorros are decorated and people gather by the sea for Noche de San Juan. On the morning of 24 June, the Baño de las Cabras draws families and visitors to the old fishing harbour.
Each year has its own programme and the bonfire location can change. This guide introduces the traditions; see our Events page for confirmed plans for the next celebration.
San Juan at a glance
When: The night of 23 June, followed by San Juan’s Day on 24 June. Decorating the chorros can begin earlier.
What to look for: Enrame de los chorros, a public seaside celebration and the traditional Baño de las Cabras.
Where: Fountains across town, a seaside site announced for each edition, and the old Muelle Pesquero for the goats.
Current details: Check our Events page for that year’s locations, timetable, access and any programme changes.
Why San Juan feels different in Puerto de la Cruz
Here San Juan stretches beyond an evening bonfire. Neighbours dress the old water spouts with branches and flowers; later, the celebration moves towards the coast. The next morning brings the sight of goats and their herders at the fishing harbour, a custom that connects the town to the island’s pastoral history.
You can enjoy the atmosphere in several ways: follow the decorated fountains through the streets, spend an evening by the sea, or come down to the harbour early on 24 June. The mix of places and traditions gives visitors more than one moment to share in the festival.
Enrame de los chorros: decorated fountains
The enrame is the decoration of Puerto de la Cruz’s historic fountains, or chorros. Recent programmes have included fountains around the Muelle, Mequinez, Las Maretas, Cupido, Blanco, Cuaco, El Durazno and Punta Brava. Flowers and greenery bring colour to these familiar corners of town.
If you enjoy walking, the chorros make a lovely thread through San Juan: you can discover the old streets at your own pace and then head towards the waterfront. Our guide to Puerto’s fountains gives more background. Check the current announcement before following any organised route, as the fountains included and guided walks can change.
Noche de San Juan by the sea
The evening of 23 June has brought people together for bonfires and, in some years, live music and a procession. The sea, firelight and gathering crowd make this a special summer night. In 2026 the municipal celebration was at Playa Jardín; in 2025 it used Playa Martiánez. The exact beach, bonfire arrangements and performers belong to each year’s programme.
Come for the public celebration and follow the organiser’s rules for beach access and fire. Do not assume that personal bonfires are permitted. For a flavour of a past edition, see our 2026 San Juan report; for what is coming up, use our Events page.
Baño de las Cabras at the old harbour
On 24 June, herders bring goats to Puerto de la Cruz’s Muelle Pesquero for the traditional Baño de las Cabras. It is a striking scene beside the old harbour, with local families and visitors lining the edge to watch. The council describes it as a living connection between the town, its livestock keepers and the sea.
Give the handlers and animals room to move, and watch from the designated public area. The harbour is near Casa de la Aduana and a short walk from Plaza del Charco. The exact morning hours and access arrangements are confirmed for each edition.
Planning your San Juan visit
For the night: Check the announced beach and start time before setting out. Seafront paths can be busy after dark, so comfortable shoes and a light layer are useful. Stay back from fires and follow stewards’ directions.
For the morning: Arrive early if you want to see the goats at the Muelle Pesquero. Find a viewing position that does not block the herders’ route, and be patient when the waterfront is crowded. Check the day’s event listing for any special access or transport arrangements.
A relaxed way to enjoy the traditions
Consider exploring the chorros in daylight, then coming back for the evening gathering if you enjoy music and a lively crowd. The goat bathing is a separate morning outing. Families with small children may find it easier to choose one or two parts of the celebration rather than trying to do everything at once.
Do not plan a night swim around the festival without checking current beach conditions and rules. The sea at Puerto de la Cruz can be powerful, even in summer. For up-to-date event details, start with our Events page.
More Puerto de la Cruz celebrations
- What’s on in Puerto de la Cruz — upcoming dates and programme details.
- San Juan 2026 — a look at that edition’s programme.
- Virgen del Carmen — another great harbour tradition.
- Fiestas in Puerto de la Cruz — more celebrations through the year.
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Find the next San Juan programme
The San Juan night venue, music, bonfire arrangements, guided activities and goat bathing hours are announced for each year. Visit our Events page for current listings and a link to the latest dated San Juan post when details are confirmed.