Sant Sebastià Palma 2024: Barbecue, celebration, music – a festival with history

Just when you think all the festive events are over - Christmas, the Magi and Sant Antoni - Palma goes into party mode to honor its protector, Sant Sebastià. Why not come along and become part of this living tradition?

Pyromaniacs, community barbecues and an abundance of live music are on the agenda as the city of Palma honors its patron saint, Sant Sebastià. And not just on his actual day of honor on Saturday, January 20th, but also days before and after there is an extensive festival program that covers the entire city. The cheering knows no bounds.

A special highlight of these festivities is undoubtedly the street barbecue on January 19th. Everywhere, on every corner, you can find grills from private individuals, bars and even public places that create a welcoming atmosphere. The streets are filled with happy people, good vibes and tempting smells of delicious grilled meat.

Just dare to let yourself drift along the main traffic arteries. Take in the atmosphere, stand on a corner, listen to the “Batucadas” (a group with Brazilian rhythm drums with African influences) and just get together with other people. This way you will find your place where you can feel comfortable, have a barbecue and enjoy the rest of the evening in company. At some point there are special moments when people start singing, dancing or laughing while you enjoy your grilled meat in the heat of the flames. This is what Sant Sebastià is all about.

There are two types of barbecue areas: the "public" ones, which are usually quite busy, and the "private" ones, which are run by the bars in the area and available to their customers. It's convenient to just walk into one of these bars that offer meat, drinks, and grilled food without having to fight for a spot. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, you can also bring your own grill for your "tribe" and set it up on the site. This option is also very popular and gives the whole thing enormous authenticity.

In my case, I chose the strategy that I always recommend. Choose smaller places, away from the large but spectacular crowds like the Plaza Mayor. I have always appreciated the charm of smaller and warmer but equally festive and special squares, such as Plaça del Pes de la Palla, Plaça Llorenç Bisbal or Plaza Josep Maria Quadrado, which are my top picks every year.

A special highlight are undoubtedly the numerous concerts that take place as part of the Sant Sebastià festivals. A rich repertoire of various styles delights the ears and leaves nothing to be desired. The spectrum ranges from traditional folk music to contemporary hits, and the concerts create a diverse and rousing soundscape that suits every music lover.

New this year there will be an after-work party in Cort Square starting at 6 p.m. and a party in Plaza Mayor starting at 8 p.m. on Saturday January 20th. On Sunday January 21st there will be a big concert with the musical group Hombres G at the Trui Son Fusteret site. In this way, the format introduced last year with Antònia Font is repeated.

The city of Palma is becoming a vibrant center these days. Partygoers of all ages, friends and families roam the streets and experience an exciting evening.

This year's fiesta promises to be a particularly exciting experience, with another host of activities already starting this Saturday, January 13th. Just take a look at the full program here. Another outstanding event that we would like to mention and that you definitely shouldn't miss is the Correfoc on January 28th, which starts on the Riera Bridge and moves through the streets of Palma with impressive performances by Dimonis and Bèsties de Foc. Read my report from last year.

The San Sebastian festivals in Palma are not only an opportunity for fun and joy, but also have a profound cultural significance. San Sebastián is the city's patron saint, and these festivities are a way to honor him and celebrate local identity and history.