Throughout the summer, every town has its' own local traditional Fiesta, which takes place on or near to the day of its Patron Saint. Each Fiesta normally last 3 days and the townspeople usually take it as a holiday, with only the bars and restaurants staying open. This is a time for the Menorcans to spectacularly show their wonderful Thoroughbred Horses during the ‘Jaleo' . 
Funfairs, fireworks, music, folk singing, processions; something for everyone. (but watch out for the local Gin and lemonade, known as' Pomada' which is always on sale!) A typical Fiesta begins in the afternoon before the Saint's day, with the horse riders parading through the streets before congregating at the church for Mass. The Fabioler – a man on a donkey playing a flute, then leads everyone, including the local orchestra, the huge giant carnival figures and the townsfolk to the town's main square. The band starts playing and the horses come into the Jaleo in 2s or 3s and are encouraged to rear up onto their hind legs. This normally lasts 2/3 hours and it is not unusual for there to be over 100 horses at the larger Fiestas . When the Jaleo finishes, the live music normally begins with local groups playing, which goes on well into the early hours.
The following morning, the actual Saint's day, it starts again, culminating in another Jaleo around midday . In the evening there is more live music and traditional folk dancing and then a firework display ends the celebrations at midnight .
Top The following are just some of those held during the year:
CIUTADELLA
23 & 24 June
ES CASTELL
24, 25 & 26 July
FORNELLS
4th Saturday & Sunday in July
ES MERCADAL
3rd Saturday & Sunday in July
ES MIGJORN GRAN
Last weekend in July & first weekend in August
ALAIOR
1 st fortnight in August
FERRERIES
23 & 24 August
SAN CLIMENT
3rd weekend in August
*** SANT LLUIS ***
*** End of August (always on a Saturday) ***
MAHON
7, 8 & 9 September
CALA EN PORTER
15, 16 & 17 September
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The details on this page can also be found in the 'Tips for your Holiday' Guide available in the Duplex. |
