Events
July Events in Mallorca
July in Mallorca is a month of vibrant celebrations, with three major festivals illuminating the island's cultural calendar. The festivities kick off on July 16th with the Festes Verge del Carme, honouring the patron saint of sailors, Virgin Carmen. On the 25th the spotlight shifts to the Festa de Sant Jaume, dedicated to St. James, the patron saint of Alcúdia. This festival, marked by theatrical performances, traditional dances, and communal feasts, showcases the rich heritage of Mallorca. The month's celebrations culminate on July 28th in Valldemossa with the Festes de la Beata Santa Catalina Tomás, honouring the island's first and only native saint. Each of these events offers a unique glimpse into the island's history, traditions, and communal spirit, making July an exceptional time to experience the heart of Mallorcan culture.
On July 16th, Mallorca comes alive with the Virgin del Carmen Festival, honouring the patron saint of sailors. This event, originally brought to Mallorca by admiral Antoni Barceló Pont de la Terra in the eighteenth century, is celebrated in many coastal towns, including Capdepera, Portocolom, Porto Cristo, Cala Bona, Cala Figuera, Cala Rajada, Coll d’en Rabassa, Port Andratx, Puerto Pollensa, and Puerto Alcudia.
The festival features a diverse day and night program, which often spans several days (depending on the town), including traditional music, concerts, street festivals, and fireworks. In most participating towns, the centerpiece events are grand processions on the 16th July, where a festively decorated statue of the Virgin is carried from church to port and then out to sea with a flotilla boats adorned with flowers. Highlights of the day also include spectacular fireworks, horse shows, Correfocs (nighttime “devils’ dance”) music and dance late into the night.
Festes Verge del Carme | Virgin Carmen Festival | Island - wide
16th July 2024
On July 25th, Mallorca comes alive with the vibrant festivities of San Jaime, the patron saint of Alcúdia. This festival is a highlight of the summer season, offering a plethora of activities and cultural events for all to enjoy. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibitions, theatrical performances, lively verbenas, and musical concerts. A grand mass is also held on Saint James's Day in Alcúdia’s parish, honouring the patron saint.
The celebration isn't limited to Alcúdia; towns like Calvià and Binissalem also join in the festivities. One of the most notable traditions is the dance of the Cossiers in Algaida. This ancient dance features six men and a lady, accompanied by a devil, performing to the tunes of traditional instruments. Their colourful attire and rhythmic movements are a captivating sight. The origins of the Cossiers’ dance date back to agrarian rituals, praying for fertile lands and giving thanks for bountiful crops. Dancers wear white shirts and skirts adorned with bright ribbons, topped with decorated hats. The lady wears a distinctive outfit with long skirts and a hat. Each dancer holds handkerchiefs and aromatic herbs – myrtle in winter and basil in summer.
If you find yourself in Mallorca on July 25th or the preceding week, don't miss the chance to experience the San Jaime Festival. It's a celebration of community, tradition, and the rich cultural heritage of Mallorca.
25th July 2024
Festa de Sant Jaume | St. James Festival | Alcudia and more
Alter picturing Saint Catherine Thomàs, Moli de la Beata, Valldemossa
28th July 2024
Festes de la Beata Santa Catalina Tomás | St. Catherine Thomas Festival | Valldemossa
The annual festival honoring Saint Catherine Tomás, known affectionately as “La Beata,” is a cherished tradition in Valldemossa, Mallorca. Celebrated on July 28th, it commemorates the life of the beloved Majorcan saint born in 1531. The festivities include the solemn Procession of the relic and the Triumphal Carcade, where “la beateta” and other figures lead the parade through the village streets.
This celebration, rooted in deep local traditions, features participants in traditional peasant attire and culminates in vibrant displays of music, dance, and religious devotion. Saint Catherine Tomás, beatified in 1792 and canonized in 1930, holds a special place in Mallorcan culture as the first native saint of the Balearic Islands. Her legacy lives on through these annual festivities, drawing visitors and locals alike to honor her spiritual significance and contributions to the community.
Don't forget to mark your calendars and experience the rich traditions of Mallorca at these exciting events in July 2024!