Palma Guide – Mallorca’s Winter Fiestas: ‘Sant Antoni & Sant Sebastià’
Winter in Mallorca is anything but dull. While other places might be huddling indoors, Palma lights up (literally) with two of the island’s most iconic celebrations: Sant Antoni and Sant Sebastià. These fiestas are loud, fiery, musical, and 100% Majorcan. If you’re lucky enough to be here during January, get ready to experience a slice of the island’s soul like never before.
Let’s dive into what makes these fiestas so special and why you absolutely need to add them to your bucket list.
Sant Antoni: Fire, devils, and tradition (January 16th and 17th)
Sant Antoni is Mallorca’s most well-known winter celebration, where the island honors the patron saint of animals. But don’t let the saintly connection fool you; this fiesta is anything but tame!
The eve of Sant Antoni (January 16th)
Things kick off with the correfocs: fire runs featuring dancing devils, drums, and LOTS of fireworks. Streets are ablaze (safely, of course), and the atmosphere is electric as the dimonis (devils) whirl through the crowds. If you’re in Palma, head to one of the larger plazas, like Plaça Major, or Parc de la Mar to witness the spectacle.
Pic by Guillem Mas
Bonfires & BBQs
After the fire show, the grills come out. Bonfires light up every neighborhood, right on the streets, and locals gather around to grill sobrassada (a delicious spiced sausage), botifarró, and other traditional goodies. Bring your appetite and a bottle of Majorcan wine to join in the fun.
Blessing of the animals (January 17th)
The fiesta takes a wholesome turn the next day, with pet owners bringing their furry (or feathered!) friends to be blessed in honor of Sant Antoni to the different churchs of the city. Even if you don’t have a pet, it’s worth watching this charming parade.
Sant Sebastià: Palma’s Patron Saint (January 19th and 20th)
Sant Sebastià is a full-on celebration of Palma’s patron saint and is, hands down, one of the city’s biggest festivities of the year. If you thought Sant Antoni was lit, wait until you see what Palma has in store for Sebastià.
Music, music, and some more music
On the night of January 19th, the city turns into a giant concert venue. Stages pop up in plazas across Palma, offering every genre of music you can think of: rock, reggae, folk, pop, and more. Pick your favorite vibe, grab a drink, and dance under the stars.
Pic by Onda Cero
Street food festival
While you’re enjoying the tunes, don’t miss the food stalls serving everything from classic Majorcan dishes to international street food. Think tapas, pintxos, and plenty of local beer and wine!
Cultural events
The days leading up to Sant Sebastià are packed with cultural activities, from traditional dances and parades to art exhibitions. Check the local calendar so you don’t miss out on something cool.
The big day of Sant Sebastià (January 20th)
The fiesta culminates on January 20th with a mix of religious and festive activities to celebrate the city’s Patron Saint. Expect more music, parades, and a warm, communal atmosphere that’ll make you feel like a local.
Pic by Mallorcantonic
Experience Palma’s winter magic at Nakar Hotel
Sant Antoni and Sant Sebastià are more than just fiestas; they’re a chance to dive headfirst into Mallorca’s vibrant culture and community spirit. Whether you’re captivated by the fiery correfocs, sharing stories around a bonfire, or dancing the night away to live music in Palma’s buzzing plazas, these celebrations promise unforgettable memories.
And there’s no better place to soak it all in than at Nakar Hotel, perfectly located in the very heart of Palma. From here, you’re just steps away from the action, whether it’s the fiery processions of Sant Antoni or the music-filled streets of Sant Sebastià. After a night of festivities, you can retreat to Nakar’s cozy, modern rooms, relax in the spa, or recharge with a Mediterranean meal at CUIT, all while enjoying unbeatable views of the city.
This winter, make Nakar Hotel your home base to experience Palma’s fiestas at their fullest. From its unbeatable location to its warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the magic of Mallorca’s winter celebrations.
¡Feliç Sant Sebastià y Sant Antoni! Let the festivities begin!
