Mallorca observes public holidays on national, regional, and local levels. As part of the autonomous Balearic Islands region, the local government sets three unique holidays each year, in addition to national holidays. These regional holidays are exclusive to the Balearic archipelago.
Regional Holidays
The most important regional holiday is the Day of the Balearic Islands (Dia de les Illes Balears), celebrated every year on March 1st. This day commemorates the granting of autonomy to the Balearic Islands in 1983. Festivities include street parties, cultural events, and concerts.
Maundy Thursday is another significant holiday, reflecting the deep Catholic traditions of the island. On this day, festive religious processions occur across Mallorca, with the most famous being the “Procession of Blood” in Palma’s historic center. Religious brotherhoods (cofradías) carry heavy altars and wooden crosses in a dramatic and somber parade.
Easter Monday is the third regional holiday, making the Balearic Islands unique as this day is not a national holiday in the rest of Spain. It is a time for family gatherings and local celebrations.
National Holidays
These holidays are celebrated across Spain, including Mallorca:
- New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo) – Wednesday, January 1
- Epiphany (Día de Reyes) – Monday, January 6
- Day of the Balearic Islands (Dia de les Illes Balears) – Saturday, March 1
- Holy Thursday (Jueves Santo) – Thursday, April 17
- Good Friday (Viernes Santo) – Friday, April 18
- Labour Day (Día del Trabajador) – Thursday, May 1
- Assumption of Mary (Asunción de la Virgen) – Friday, August 15
- National Day of Spain (Día de la Hispanidad) – Sunday, October 12
- All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos los Santos) – Saturday, November 1
- Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución) – Saturday, December 6
- Immaculate Conception (Inmaculada Concepción) – Monday, December 8
- Christmas Day (Día de Navidad) – Thursday, December 25
- Second Christmas Day (Segunda fiesta de Navidad) – Friday, December 26
Local Holidays in Palma de Mallorca
Local holidays vary by municipality. In Palma, the capital of Mallorca, these additional holidays are observed:
- Sant Sebastià – Monday, January 20
Celebrates the city’s patron saint with concerts, parades, and traditional activities. - Easter Monday – Monday, April 21
Palma has designated Easter Monday as an additional local holiday this year.
For local holidays in other municipalities, consult the specific dates here.
Retail Exceptions
On certain public holidays, shops in the Balearic Islands are permitted to open:
- January 5 (Sunday before Epiphany)
- March 1 (Balearic Islands Day)
- April 17 (Maundy Thursday)
- August 15 (Assumption of Mary)
- November 1 (All Saints’ Day)
- December 6 (Constitution Day)
- December 21 & 28 (Sundays during the Christmas campaign)
Tips for Public Holidays in Mallorca
- Shops and Services: Many businesses, including supermarkets, close on public holidays, but tourist areas like Palma often have restaurants and some stores open.
- Transport: Public transportation may operate on reduced schedules—plan ahead for your travels.
- Cultural Events: Public holidays often feature unique cultural celebrations, parades, and markets. Don’t miss these opportunities to experience Mallorca’s traditions.
Make the most of your time in Mallorca by marking these dates on your calendar!
Public holidays are perfect opportunities for long weekends, and the night before often promises lively parties. With no early morning commitments, it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate late and sleep in the next day!
