Menorca celebrates summer in a very special way. From June to September, patron saint festivals fill towns and villages across the island with music, tradition and a lively atmosphere. And there is one unmistakable star at the heart of these celebrations: the Menorcan horse, accompanied by the caixers and the traditional jaleos.

Sant Joan in Ciutadella, Menorca’s biggest celebration

The Sant Joan festivities in Ciutadella are the best known on the island and one of the most iconic celebrations in the Balearic Islands. The main events take place on 23 and 24 June, although the festivities begin earlier with the traditional Dia des Be.

During these days, Ciutadella is completely transformed. Horses and riders make their way through the streets, Plaça des Born becomes one of the main stages of the celebrations, and the Jocs des Pla showcase the skills of the caixers on horseback.

If you stay at BLUESEA Los Lentiscos, in Cala en Blanes, you’ll be just a short distance from Ciutadella, making it easy to soak up the atmosphere and experience one of Menorca’s most special traditions.

A summer of festivities across the island

Sant Joan marks the beginning of a festive calendar that continues throughout the summer. Towns such as Es Mercadal, Alaior, Ferreries and Maó hold their own patron saint festivals, each with its own personality but all sharing one essential element: the Menorcan horse.

The jaleos are among the most memorable moments of these celebrations, as riders and horses enter the squares surrounded by music and crowds, creating a scene that has become synonymous with summer in Menorca.

Staying at BLUESEA Playa Azul, in Cala en Porter, or BLUESEA Marina Parc, in Arenal d’en Castell, also gives you the chance to combine relaxing beach days with excursions around the island and discover the festivities held in other parts of Menorca.

Getting to know Menorca also means discovering its traditions. If you visit the island in summer, its local festivals offer the perfect opportunity to experience a different side of Menorca, full of heritage and character.