Festa i Mercado de Santa Bàrbara 2025
4 - 7 December 2025
Santa Bàrbara, protector against storms and patron saint of Vilafranca, is celebrated each year on 4 December with a week of festivities that bridge devotion and village life. The days surrounding the feast are filled with church services, folk dancing, live music, sports, exhibitions, and children’s games — all centred around Plaça Major, the heart of town life.
One of the most symbolic customs is the sharing of freshly made bunyols (Mallorcan doughnuts) with sweet moscatel wine after mass — a warm ritual that unites neighbours and visitors in true Mallorcan style. The sound of xeremiers (traditional bagpipers) and the presence of gegants (giant papier-mâché figures) bring colour and folklore to the narrow streets, maintaining traditions that have passed through generations.
Tucked into the Pla de Mallorca, roughly 40 kilometres from Palma, Vilafranca de Bonany embodies the quiet soul of the island’s interior. Known for its fertile soil, melon fields, and unhurried rhythm of life, this small agricultural town reflects Mallorca’s rural essence. At its centre stands the elegant 18th-century parish church of Santa Bàrbara, while the nearby hilltop Ermita de Bonany offers sweeping views across the island’s countryside. For centuries, faith and farming have shaped Vilafranca’s landscape and community identity.
The Mercado de Santa Bàrbara
The highlight of the patronal week is the Mercado de Santa Bàrbara, the main public celebration that transforms Vilafranca’s town centre into a lively artisan and local producers’ fair.
Stalls line the streets with handmade gifts, local delicacies, mulled wines, preserves, pastries, and traditional Christmas decorations. The market hums with music, dancing, and street performances, creating a festive yet family-friendly atmosphere that captures the spirit of the town.
In recent years, the fair has featured:
Live xeremiers playing Mallorcan folk tunes
Performances by regional dance troupes and school groups
Children’s art and craft workshops in Plaça Major
A colourful parade led by “Bàrbara”, Vilafranca’s beloved geganta (giant figure)
Though it has grown steadily in size and variety, the market retains its intimate, small-town character — a gathering place where locals and travellers share stories, smiles, and sweets.
Key dates for 2025
In 2025, the Mercado de Santa Bàrbara will take place on Sunday, 7 December, forming the centrepiece of a week-long calendar of religious, cultural, and festive events.
Thursday, 4 December 2025:
Feast of Santa Bàrbara — solemn mass, offering of bunyols and moscatel, traditional dances, and evening concerts.Sunday, 7 December 2025:
Mercado de Santa Bàrbara — artisan market, live music, traditional food, and children’s activities across the old town.
The surrounding days will include exhibitions, folk performances, and community gatherings, ensuring a vibrant early winter celebration that brings Vilafranca fully to life.
What visitors can expect in 2025
Artisan and local market: Dozens of stalls showcasing local crafts, produce, wines, pastries, and festive gifts.
Traditional music and dance: Performances by xeremiers and folk troupes from across Mallorca.
Cultural and family events: Creative workshops, guided tours, and traditional games in the main square.
Local flavours: Warm bunyols, seasonal sweets, and mulled wine served throughout the day.
Community spirit: A welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere that reflects Vilafranca’s strong sense of tradition and hospitality.
Practical information
The market and main events take place in Plaça Major and the surrounding historic streets. The town is easily accessible from Palma and neighbouring villages in the Pla region.
Parking: Available on the outskirts, with short walking access to the centre.
Getting around: Vilafranca is compact and best explored on foot.
Nearby attraction: The Ermita de Bonany, a short drive or scenic walk away, offers one of the most beautiful panoramic viewpoints on the island.
In summary
The Festa i Mercado de Santa Bàrbara 2025 is a radiant blend of heritage, gastronomy, and community life. On 7 December 2025, Vilafranca de Bonany will once again open its streets to locals and visitors to celebrate its patron saint with music, markets, bunyols, and the unmistakable warmth of Mallorcan tradition.
It is a moment when the rural heart of Mallorca beats at its brightest — a perfect early-winter escape filled with flavour, faith, and festivity.
*Whilst we have done our best to cover the events of this festival accurately, we do advise that you check for updates on timings and festival events on the Ajuntament de Vilafranca de Bonany instagram or website.