Summer solstice in Santiago and Fisterra

[mswest]

Hello-- I'll be finishing my Camino right around the time of the summer solstice, and was wondering if anybody knows of any events or celebrations in either Santiago or Finisterre?
Thanks!

Melissa

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

I understand that Spanish youngsters will celebrate on the beaches of Finisterre, but whether it is organised, safe and welcoming I cannot tell you.

I was there for the solstice in 2004 and too tired to do anything but be in my bunk.

Two ladies who did go woke me up when they came in during the early morning, so I was not amused.

It used to be possible to get into the Finisterre albergue after lights out. I don't know about now but bear in mind that you might not want to be locked out.

It will be interesting to see what replies you do get.

 

[mikevasey]

Hi whatever you do, you could always round the the day off on the 23rd june(galician summer solstice) with drinking 'Queimada' which is one of the main days for drinking it. There is usually a 'conuxuro'- a kind of incantation read out while it is being made. it is quite a sight to see(and quite moorish), and usually involves a group of companions drinking it and toasting together, I had my moment with it when i arrived at O Cebreiro on the CF. http://www.queimadasgalicia.com/spellofthequeimada.html

 

[mswest]

Thanks for the feedback. Might have to sample the Queimada! And we're too old and curmudgeonly to party with youngsters on the beach. At any rate, watching the sun set on the 'wrong' side of the Atlantic will be celebration enough for us.

Melissa

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

The last Camino marker is at the lighthouse. There are cliffs beyond. Sit on the cliffs and watch the sun go down over the horizon.

Take a torch as there is virtually no light on the cliffs once it is dark. There is a cafe there and it will probably be open and no doubt suitable drinks may be had as well.

Be warned. The town and the albergue are 2km behind you. If you cannot get a taxi (or a lift) you will have to walk back along a dark road. Downhill you will be pleased to know. If it is a clear night it will be under the Milky Way and that has its own spiritual joyfulness.