Christmas traditions in Mallorca, Ca's Saboners Beach Aparthotel

As the holiday season unfolds, Mallorca, the jewel of the Mediterranean, transforms into a magical haven of Christmas traditions that reflect the island's unique blend of history, culture, and warmth. Embraced by the Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca's Christmas celebrations are a delightful tapestry of customs that capture the essence of the island's spirit.

Christmas in Mallorca

1. Festive markets and Nativity Scenes: Mallorca's streets come alive with the spirit of Christmas through vibrant markets and intricately crafted nativity scenes. Some of our fav’ Xmas markets are: Puerto Portals, Port Adriano and Pueblo Español. The island's renowned artisan craftsmanship is showcased in the intricate nativity scenes displayed in churches and public spaces, providing a visual feast for locals and visitors alike. One of the most popular ones is the Nativity Scene to be visited inside Palma’s Town Hall.

2. Christmas Eve midnight mass (La Misa del Gallo): Majorcans celebrate the traditional Midnight Mass, known as 'La Misa del Gallo,' on Christmas Eve. Churches across the island host this solemn and joyous service, drawing communities together to celebrate the birth of Christ. The enchanting atmosphere is heightened by the beautiful choral music and the glow of candlelight, creating a serene and spiritual ambiance. The most spectacular ‘Misa del Gallo’ takes place in Palma’s Cathedral La Seu.

3. Christmas Day Celebrations: On Christmas Day and the day after, the 26th, Majorcans continue the festivities with family gatherings, elaborate meals, and the exchange of heartfelt gifts. The warm climate allows for outdoor celebrations, with many families enjoying leisurely lunches in gardens or on terraces, basking in the winter sun.

4. New Year’s Dinner: 12 grapes at midnight. On New Year’s Eve, the celebrations continue, as Majorcans gather with family or friends to celebrate the arrival of a new year. One of the traditions that cannot be missed is the one to have 12 grapes, starting at the first stroke of midnight on as one-year changes to another. And you have to keep eating: with each toll of midnight, you must eat another grape, giving you about twelve seconds to consume all of them.

5. The Three Kings parade: Last, but not least, the Christmas celebrations end with the arrival of the Three Kings on January, the 5th. During the evening, the streets are filled with kids and families to welcome the Three Kings Parade. The city of Palma has the main fiesta, but many resorts, villages and towns stage their own version. In Palma, the parade usually takes place from 18:00 on the 5th, with the route starting from Moll Vell (in front of the cathedral), around and through to Passeig del Born. You will usually find information, including the planned route of the parade on each town and village's ajuntament website or Facebook page closer to the event.

We hope you enjoy the festive season on the island and we cannot wait to have you back in March at our family-friendly aparthotel in Palmanova.

Excerpt: The festive season on the island is definitely one-of-a-kind. Discover all the Christmas traditions in Mallorca.