Carnival, or “Sa Rua” and “Sa Rueta”, is one of the most vibrant celebrations in Mallorca, filling the streets with color, music, and creative costumes. Rooted in pre-Lenten traditions, it’s a time of joy before the solemnity of Lent begins. The festivities typically include parades (ruas), costume contests, music, dancing, and food stalls, bringing together families, schools, and local groups for a communal celebration.
While “Sa Rua” is the main parade, featuring extravagant floats and group performances, “Sa Rueta” is a smaller, family-friendly version aimed at children. Another key tradition is the “Burial of the Sardine” (Enterro de la Sardina), symbolising the end of the festivities, often marked with bonfires and community gatherings.
Carnival Traditions Across Mallorca
Each town in Mallorca hosts its own unique version of the carnival, with colorful parades, live performances, and traditional festivities. While Palma boasts the island’s largest and most elaborate celebrations, local towns add their personal touches, reflecting their unique traditions.
The carnival typically includes:
- Teams competing in creative costume design.
- Special performances featuring dance, singing, and music.
- Floats telling vibrant and imaginative stories.
In many towns, the most creative teams and floats are awarded prizes.
Find all Carnival parades happenings across Mallorca here.
Carnival Highlights:
- Mallorca’s Carnival Spirit: Often compared to a smaller version of Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival, Mallorca’s celebrations are filled with color, dance, and joy. It’s a final burst of festivity before the reflective and solemn Lenten period begins.
- Family Fun & Entertainment: Sa Rueta is perfect for families, offering child-friendly parades and activities.
- Vibrant Atmosphere in Palma: Sa Rua brings the streets alive with music, laughter, and a kaleidoscope of colors.
Sa Rueta (Kids’ Carnival):
Dedicated to children and families, this event usually takes place on Sunday morning from 10:30 to around 13:30/14:00. Streets fill with colorful parades, kids’ activities, and music, creating a festive atmosphere for younger participants. Find out more here.
- Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
- Time: between 10:30 to 14:00
- Where: various locations in Palma city center
Sa Rua (Adults’ Carnival):
The main parade for adults kicks off on Sunday, March 2nd, around 17:00. Participants don elaborate costumes and parade on decorated floats through Palma’s main streets, including La Rambla, Carrer de la Riera, Carrer de la Unió, Plaça del Rei Joan Carles I, and Avinguda de Jaume III. The event concludes with prizes for the most creative costumes and floats. Find out more here.
- Date: Sunday, March 2, 2025
- Time: starting at 17:00
- Where: through Palma’s main streets, including La Rambla, Carrer de la Riera, Carrer de la Unió, Plaça del Rei Joan Carles I, and Avinguda de Jaume III
These events transform Palma and all of Mallorca into a whirlwind of colour, music, and celebration, offering something for everyone, whether you’re a participant or a spectator.
