Palma Town Hall has revealed the full programme for the 2026 Sant Sebastià festivities, an edition that promises to be a vibrant and inclusive celebration dedicated to the city’s patron saint. This year, activities will run from Saturday 10 January throughout the month, featuring a wide variety of events designed to engage the entire community and showcase local talent alongside nationally and internationally recognised figures.
Start of celebrations and traditional events
The official opening will take place on Saturday 10 January, beginning with the iconic pregonet, combined with the awakening of the Drac de na Coca, an emblematic symbol of the festival. Among the novelties, the children’s participation stands out, with pupils from Pius XII school playing the role of the Drac, while members of the Children’s Council will act as masters of ceremonies.
At the same time, the public will be able to enjoy various workshops, including one focused on painting cherry peppers and a new one dedicated to badge-making. The “face in hole” area will serve as a spot for fun family photos, enhancing the participatory experience.
Musical accompaniment will also be present, with the well-known batucadas Nam Sobrats and Saravá providing lively rhythms, alongside appearances by the traditional Mallorcan giants and demons, supported by the traditional xeremiers (bagpipers). In the afternoon, the highly anticipated Dia de la Pesta, organised by the Obreria de Sant Sebastià, will take place, marking another key moment in the cultural programme.
Sant Sebastià Petit: fun for the little ones
The following day, Sunday 11 January, Parc de Sa Riera will become the epicentre of children’s activities under the title Sant Sebastià Petit. Multiple recreational proposals have been organised, including theatre, circus, games, mini disco, climbing wall, children’s train, and caricature sessions.
In addition to entertainment, and environmental awareness will be offered, helping to educate young participants through fun. Circus performances will feature prominently, with companies such as Gran Hotel and Circ Mecànic, complemented by workshops introducing juggling, trapeze, and other circus skills.
Theatrical performances will include works such as Trencaclosques and La pingüina viatgera, and to ensure inclusivity, several shows will feature sign language interpreters, making the arts accessible to people with hearing impairments.
Musical programme: concerts and daytime events for all tastes
The festival calendar also features a strong musical line-up, beginning with a concert by the band Sus on Friday 16 January in Plaza de España. The headline performance will be by British band Crystal Fighters, supported by Guille & The Waves, DmassO, and Tebals, the latter a finalist in the Pop Rock competition, bringing fresh and high-quality talent.
The following day, Saturday 17 January, the daytime music events (tardeos) expand across two squares: Joan Carles I and Plaza Major. In the first, well-known DJs such as Víctor Magán and Óscar Romero will perform, while Plaza Major will host live music from bands including Gintonics Band, La Canción del Verano, and I Madison. This format fosters a festive atmosphere during daytime hours, suitable for all ages.
The Revetla and other major events
The highlight will be the night of the Revetla on Monday 19 January, with music across a variety of stages. Plaza de España will focus on Latin-electro music, featuring artists such as Henry Méndez, José de Rico, Danny Romero, and Alex Martini.
In Plaza Major, the programme will offer a mix of traditional folklore and contemporary renewal, led by Pitxorines and Toc de Crida. Meanwhile, Plaza Joan Carles I will host bands including Buhos, Guaraná, Pèl de Gall, Negre, and Mon Joan Tiquat. Finally, Plaza de Cort will be dedicated to rock and pop, featuring Burning, Tennessee, Heroes Tribut Band, and UR BAD.
Following the musical vigil, activities will continue until the end of the month. On Tuesday 20 January, the Diada Ciclista and the Ciutat de Palma Awards ceremony will take place, highlighting social and cultural commitment. The traditional Trobada de Gegants (giants) will be held on Saturday 24 January, bringing together the island’s most iconic festival figures, and on Sunday 25 January, the Volada d’Estels at Parc de la Mar will conclude with the much-awaited correfocs, accompanied by the city’s remarkable dimonis troupes.
The Town Hall emphasises its strong support for the traditional bonfires held in local neighbourhoods, a key symbol of the festivities, and places special importance on ensuring that celebrations are safe, inclusive, and suitable for all ages, promoting harmonious participation throughout this major festive event.
Road closures and specific access restrictions for Saturday, January 10th
Between 09:00 and 14:30, main routes through the historic centre will be off-limits to traffic, coinciding with the bulk of programmed activities for Sant Sebastià. Carrer Conqueridor (heading towards plaza de Cort) and Carrer Cadena will remain closed to vehicles over this period. Temporary pedestrianisation of these locations is intended to minimise risk during peak festivity hours.
Additionally, ACIRE permits normally allowing access via Carrer Cadena and Tous i Maroto will be suspended during these hours, limiting entrances even for authorised vehicles, residents and those holding special permits within the regulated zone.
The closures will directly affect city centre routes run by EMT and TIB. Most services will operate with diversions or modified stops; users are urged to consult official mobile apps or the respective websites for real-time updates on changes to schedules and routes. "Passengers are advised to check before travelling for the latest guidance on alternative routes during event times," both operators have indicated.
With large gatherings expected, local authorities recommend planning ahead and considering alternative transport options where possible. The collaboration of all citizens and visitors is vital for a smooth-running and secure Sant Sebastià celebration.