4. Fiesta de San Juan

The Buzz -- The night of Saint John the Baptist – summer solstice – is the shortest of the year. Spain celebrates until dawn with partying, bonfires and fireworks. The tradition is stronger in Barcelona, but has recently been resuscitated in Madrid and is fast gaining popularity. Follow the noise of banger fireworks to the best hangouts, like Parque de la Cornisa (next the church of San Francisco el Grande), Parque de San Juan (Ciudad Lineal), open spaces in the Hortaleza district and the Vallecas and Vicaro fairgrounds. To stoke the flames of the giant bonfires, locals bring along old furniture and bundles of newspapers, plus plenty of spirits.