Raging fires, roaring music & raving crowds: Palma’s hottest party (literally)
Every January, Palma throws a bash that makes New Year’s Eve look like a quiet night in, a party so hot it might set you on fire. It’s the night Palma lights up – and almost burns down. Get ready for the Sant Sebastià Festival, a week-long extravaganza honoring the city’s patron saint, legend has it, he saved Palma from the plague, so naturally, the locals repay him with fireworks, music, and enough grilled meat to feed a Roman legion.
With concerts, bonfires, fire-wielding demons, cultural events, and sporting competitions, the festival blends deep-rooted tradition with a vibrant party atmosphere.
Keep an eye out for El Drac de na Coca, a dragon with a backstory juicier than a telenovela. This 17th-century reptile allegedly terrorized Palma until a local hero took it down. Today, its replica roams the streets during the festival, reminding everyone that even dragons can’t resist a good party.
While the entire program is packed with entertainment, the real highlight is January 19 – the night of the legendary Revetla de Sant Sebastià, when the city turns into one giant, smoke-filled, music-blaring, sausage-sizzling party.
Pro tips for festival-goers
– Attire: Wear something you don’t mind smelling like a barbecue.
– Navigation: City squares like Plaça Major and Plaça de Cort are hotspots for the big concerts and events. Smaller squares like Santa Eulalia and Raimundo Clark are the place to go for fringe, alternative vibes.
Safety: If participating in the Correfoc, consider a protective hoody.
Warming up for the big night
Before you find yourself dancing next to a fire-breathing demon, you might want to pace yourself with this pre-party event:
Saint Anthony: Blessing of the animals. (January 17, 10:00-12:00)
While Saint Anthony is massively celebrated across the island, in Palma he plays second fiddle to Saint Sebastian. But there’s still time for a guest appearance from the animal-loving hermit. The annual blessing, or Beneïdes, takes the form of a procession culminating in the holy sprinkling of pets. Grab your pampered pooch and join in. The route: Palau Reial, Plaza de Cort, Carrer Colon, Plaça Major and Carrer San Miguel, the chapel Capilla de Sant Antoniet, and Plaça Porta Pintada.
