Spain has always been a charmer for the travelers from all over the world, all year round. Not only because of exquisite landscape, but also for the fact that it brews a rich culture and tradition, which is quite prominent while exploring this beautiful country. Due to the reason that it has been always under conquests and sieges in the past, its architecture displays the effect of the invaders and how their influence help shaped and flourished the culture and architecture of this country. You will come across imposing castles, huge cathedrals, lavish courtyards and Gothic masterpieces to satiate your explorer’s instinct.
Palma de Mallorca:
From tall mountains to serene coastal areas, lush green pastures to beautiful towns and bustling cities, there is so much to explore in Spain, that you might want to take a long vacation to immerse in the Spanish spirit in the true sense. However, if you cannot take long holidays then, there are certain spots to hit which are a flawless display of what Spain’s pivotal charm is all about. Palma de Mallorca, for instance, is one such place. It is the capital of the Spanish Balearic Islands on the Bay of Majorca. This lovely resort city is crammed with eye-pleasing attractions, exquisite restaurants and historical landmarks to provide the vacationers a great time. It is crowned with a 13th century-old Gothic Cathedral, a Moorish style Arab fortress, Massive Churches and an imposing Castle in the backdrop. Or you can just take a leave from the crowd and walk in the labyrinth of the cobbled streets and find some delectable eating spots, basilicas, shopping areas and patrician courtyards during your serendipitous stroll. Therefore, there is a fair chance that while you get around the place you will encounter the main features of Spain.
Vivacious Festivals :
Spanish festivals always take the toll when it comes to extra ordinary celebrations, but the island of Mallorca is always the best shot for the travelers as it offers a number of festivals and parties all year round. The locals here have a knack of providing an enthralling atmosphere and a colourful time to the visitors with these celebrations. Be it the traditional ones or the contemporary ones , there is always something to look forward to once you plan to visit this immaculate holiday spot. You can get cheap flights to Spain, to explore this beautiful Mediterranean town, with open horizon, clear skies and a festive ambiance. From open-air concerts to beach parties and from vibrant parades to elaborative dances you can get hold of the best celebration of the country’s rich tradition, art, culture and music.
San Sebastian Festival:
Although you will not feel short of the happening activities going on in the Palma the biggest event of the year is the San Sebastian Festival, which marks the kick-start of the New Year. In native language, it is termed as Festes de Sant Sebastian and is considered as one of the major events in the country and thus is responsible for attracting thousands of travellers to experience the grand festivity.
This Fiesta is celebrated to pay homage to Saint Sebastian the Patron Saint of Palma the Majorca and the local community celebrates the event with great enthusiasm. The festival is actually a massive party in the town with live music concerts, dances and a number of activities held all across the city. Not only the major city squares like the Placa Major, Placa Joan Carlos ,Placa Cort, Placa de l’Olivar, Sa Llonja, the Placa d’Espanya and the Placa del Rei Joan Carles I, become the main centre of attraction during the event but the colours of the celebrations are clearly evident on the streets and in the local pubs and bars as well.
Dates and Venue:
Like each year, the dates of the event are decided beforehand. As, the St. Sebastian day is celebrated on the 20th of January every year, so the festival dates are organized according to that. In 2016, the event is falling on Thursday 14th of January to Friday January 29th.The venue is the Palma city in Mallorca, Spain.
Activities:
There are plethora of activities and happenings during this two-week time. You will encounter impeccable exhibitions, music concerts with mega stars, and lively parades . However, the exact details with full specifications of venues and the list of artists and performers of this year will be provided in the Official Program a week before the event.
This festival generally starts with a parade of the Giant Paper Mache figures, which depict the heroic figures and personalities from the past. Then there are traditional dancing events, local folk music concerts, aerobatics show, and the customary bonfire. All the main plazas of the city are transformed into concert venues, featuring different genres of music like jazz, flamenco, traditional tunes etc.
The major event night is around 19 or 20 January, as the official Saint Sebastian Day celebration starts, so the party is at its peak with a number of performances from big names in the Spanish music industry, parades, fire runs, dancing and fireworks. Moreover, do not forget the street bonfires in the markets, which are famous for serving delicious grilled “sobrassada” and “botifarrons”. This festival is not only restricted to the main city but is also celebrated in other quaint villages and small towns with the same fervor and spirit.
If you are done enjoying the festival and still manage some days off then it is a great opportunity for you to attend the annual Carnival in the month of February. Mallorcans celebrate the start of the Lent in a festive way with street parties, parades etc. Moreover, get around the island and have a taste at some of the best Mediterranean food restaurants for instance Restaurant Es Fum, Restaurant Jardin, La Lonja, And Quina Creu Tapas and restaurant etc. Or discover best shop spots at Avinguda Jauma III, Passeig Des Born And Placa Major etc. There are luxury designer shops and small retail shops as well where you can buy apparels, art and crafts, souvenirs etc.
Palma de Mallorca is a town with an enthusiastic charisma and once you allow yourself the pleasure to discover and explore this exotic destination you would always be mesmerized with its unique appeal.
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