Cavalcada dels Reis Mags – Three Kings Parade
Date: Evening of 5 January
Where: Palma (biggest), plus towns and villages across Mallorca
Mallorca’s festive season reaches its climax with the Cavalcada dels Reis Mags, or Three Kings Parade, on the night of 5 January. This long-standing tradition marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men, who bring gifts to children, much like Santa Claus in other countries.
In Palma, the spectacle begins dramatically with the Kings arriving by boat into the port, before leading a grand procession through the city streets. The parade is a riot of colour, featuring horse-drawn carriages, music bands, beautifully lit floats, and dancers. The Kings and their helpers throw handfuls of sweets into the crowd, delighting children who line the pavements with baskets and bags.
Smaller but no less charming versions take place across the island in towns such as Alcúdia, Sóller, Inca, and Manacor, each bringing its own flair. In these more intimate settings, families often know the performers, which adds to the community feel. Whether you’re in Palma for the grand spectacle or a smaller town for a more local experience, the Cavalcada dels Reis Mags is a magical event and a highlight for anyone visiting Mallorca in early January.
Festes de Sant Antoni
Dates: 16–17 January (main days)
Where: Sa Pobla, Pollença, Artà, Port de Sóller, and other towns
The Festes de Sant Antoni are among Mallorca’s most fiery and atmospheric celebrations, held every year on 16 and 17 January in honour of Saint Anthony, the patron saint of animals. The most famous festivities take place in Sa Pobla, where the Revetla de Sant Antoni on the night of the 16th sees the whole town ignite with bonfires (foguerons).
Locals gather around the flames for food, drink, and music, while dimonis — devil figures in terrifying masks and costumes — charge through the streets with firecrackers and drums, creating an exhilarating and almost primeval atmosphere. Traditional songs (gloses) are performed, adding a cultural rhythm that ties the community together.
On 17 January, the focus shifts to faith and tradition with the beneïdes — blessings of animals. Farmers bring horses, donkeys, goats, and sheep into town, while families proudly parade their dogs, cats, and even pet birds to be blessed by the parish priest.
In Pollença, the Pi de Sant Antoni is a particularly dramatic tradition: a tall pine tree is hauled into the town square and raised upright, with brave locals attempting to climb it in a lively contest cheered on by the crowd.
Artà and Port de Sóller also stage their own versions, blending fire, food, music, and blessing rituals. For visitors, Sant Antoni offers a chance to see the island at its most authentic — part wild carnival, part religious devotion, and fully Mallorcan.
Festes de Sant Sebastià
Dates: 11–26 January (key dates 19, 20 & 26 January)
Where: Palma de Mallorca
The Festes de Sant Sebastià is Palma’s largest and most important winter festival, spanning two weeks of events between 11 and 26 January in honour of the city’s patron saint. The most eagerly awaited night is the Revetlla de Sant Sebastià on 19 January, when the city squares fill with bonfires and barbecues, and thousands of people gather to grill sobrasada and botifarró sausages.
Live music stages are set up across the city, turning Palma into a massive street party. Adding to the spectacle is the appearance of Drac de na Coca, a legendary dragon figure who roams through the crowd accompanied by music and flames.
On 20 January, Palma observes a public holiday for the Feast Day of Sant Sebastià, marked by religious ceremonies and processions. Families often take part in quieter cultural activities, enjoying exhibitions and traditional performances.
The festival builds to its dramatic finale with the Correfoc on 26 January in Plaça de la Reina. Here, costumed dimonis (devils) rush through the streets amid fireworks, sparklers, and booming drums, creating a breathtaking fire-run that is both thrilling and slightly intimidating.
Alongside these headline events, the programme includes children’s activities, giant parades (gegants), kite flying at Parc de la Mar, and concerts, ensuring something for every age. For visitors, Sant Sebastià is the ultimate chance to see Palma alive with fire, music, and tradition in the heart of winter.