Easter, or Semana Santa, in Mallorca is a time when tradition, religion, and community come together. During Holy Week, the streets come alive with impressive processions, where members of religious brotherhoods, dressed in traditional robes and hoods, carry sacred icons through towns and villages. Some of the most moving events include Procesión del Silencio, a procession held in total silence, and Procesión de la Sang on Maundy Thursday, the biggest and most dramatic procession, where hundreds of participants carry the crucified Christ through Palma. Preparations for these events start weeks in advance, with rehearsals, creating decorations, and preparing the traditional los pasos (procession floats).
Easter in Mallorca is not only a religious occasion but also a time for family and local traditions. Mallorcan families gather to cook and share traditional dishes like panades (pies filled with lamb and peas), cocarrois (vegetarian pies with raisins and vegetables), and sweet treats like rubiols and crespells. Many bakeries also compete to make impressive chocolate sculptures, known as Mona de Pascua, which often feature Easter bunnies or other creative designs.
The week begins with Palm Sunday, when palm and olive branches are blessed in churches across the island. In Palma, the day is marked by a mass in the stunning La Seu Cathedral, followed by a procession where the faithful carry their blessed branches home for protection and blessings. The most important services take place on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday, with La Seu Cathedral being one of the most beautiful spots to experience these religious ceremonies.
For visitors, Mallorca offers a chance to experience a rich tradition where history, faith, and festivity come together. In addition to the processions, you can enjoy traditional Easter food and soak in the unique atmosphere that fills the streets. After Easter, many locals participate in pancaritats, pilgrimages to old hermitages and monasteries in the mountains, where they enjoy picnics and time together.
All in all, Easter in Mallorca is a special time that blends religious devotion with festive traditions, making it an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors.
Important Dates to Keep in Mind for Easter 2025:
- Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos): April 13
- Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo): April 17
- Good Friday (Viernes Santo): April 18
- Holy Saturday (Sábado Santo): April 19
- Easter Sunday (Domingo de Resurrección): April 20
Events and Activities During Easter Week:
- Semana Santa Processions: The most significant and impressive processions take place on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, especially in Palma.
- The processions starts at 19:00 and they go through El Borne, Plaza Cort, El Catedral and the surrounding area of Palma.
- Fira del Ram: Palma’s annual Easter fair, Fira del Ram, is open until April 27. This is not only Mallorca’s largest amusement park but also one of the biggest in Europe, featuring attractions for all ages, from roller coasters to market stalls.
- Cultural Events: Throughout Easter week, there are various cultural activities like exhibitions, concerts, and lectures across the island. For updated dates and times, check the Consell de Mallorca’s official website.
