The Sant Joan night is eagerly awaited in many Catalan villages, a night to enjoy fire, coca cake and cava with family or friends. But in a peaceful setting like Berguedà, where nature and domestic animals are part of everyday life, it’s worth reflecting on how we celebrate so that everyone benefits, including our four-legged companions.
In the area around Borredà and La Pobla de Lillet, life moves at a gentler pace and the mountain’s silence adds to the charm. So, we want to share some ideas for enjoying Sant Joan with respect for animals without giving up tradition.
Why are fireworks a challenge for domestic animals?
Many animals, especially dogs and cats, have very sensitive hearing that perceives the loud, sudden noises of fireworks as a threat. This can cause stress, intense fear and avoidance behaviours that affect their wellbeing.
In rural settings like ours, where farm animals and pets are used to calm surroundings, this disturbance is even greater. Moreover, fire and smoke can create insecurity and danger both for them and for the nearby forest.
The tradition of coca and cava, a calm way to celebrate Sant Joan
What can’t be missed on Sant Joan night is the coca cake, with its candied fruits and sweet touch that connects us to the celebration. Pairing it with a glass of cava is a custom that keeps the festive spirit alive without loud noises.
At our holiday rentals, such as the Borredà apartment or the La Pobla de Lillet apartment, you can enjoy the night in a peaceful atmosphere, with spaces to share these moments around the table without disturbing the animals that accompany you.
How to care for animals during the celebration
- Keep them indoors or in secure areas, with doors and windows closed to reduce noise.
- Provide a comfortable, quiet space where they can hide if feeling anxious.
- Avoid fireworks and firecrackers near the animals.
- Spend time with them before the celebration starts so they get tired and are more relaxed.
- If possible, use ambient sounds, music or even leave the TV on to help soothe them.
Enjoy Sant Joan without losing the rural essence
Berguedà invites you to enjoy nature and culture in a calm way. The celebration can be a different experience, combining tradition with care for the environment and animals. In this sense, our accommodations in Borredà and La Pobla de Lillet offer the perfect setting for an intimate and respectful celebration.
A rural getaway in the Catalan Pyrenees that values peace and wellbeing for everyone, including pets, results in a more authentic and sustainable experience.
Practical tips for a respectful Sant Joan in Berguedà
- Buy coca and cava from local bakeries and wineries to support the area.
- Avoid using fireworks near forest or farming areas.
- Think of the animals when organising the party and inform guests about the importance of keeping noise down.
- Choose accommodation that respects the environment and offers pet-friendly facilities, like our Borredà apartments or La Pobla de Lillet.
- Enjoy walks and outdoor moments before the party to relax together.
If you want to celebrate Sant Joan in a place where nature and tradition go hand in hand, and where domestic animals are welcome and protected, we look forward to offering you a calm and cosy stay at our Borredà apartment or the La Pobla de Lillet apartment. Celebrate a different Sant Joan with us, where respect and calm are part of the festivities.
