Visitors coming to Ibiza in search of its more peaceful and family-centred side usually choose Santa Eulària and its surrounding area, as they can find accommodation for all budgets, coves and beaches for all types of visitors and a relaxed and respectful atmosphere that retains Ibiza’s traditional values. May is the best time to visit for those who prefer the quieter season, when the weather is mild and sunny and it’s perfect to go to the beach without the usual summer crowds. Also, Santa Eulària has a friendly festive atmosphere during its local fiestas, a great way to discover Ibiza’s popular traditions.
Santa Eulària in May
During this month, there are two main events one can enjoy together with loads of other activities in Santa Eulària in May, such as paddle surfing, introduction to diving, snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, cyclotourism, workshops...
Women in traditional costumes. © Visitsantaeulalia.com
Fiestas on the First Sunday in May
If your holiday coincides with these local festivities, don’t miss them! Declared Fiesta of Cultural Interest, during these festivities you’ll get the chance to watch the island’s folk dances and ancient traditions, such as the ball pagès (a typical dance), listen to Ibiza’s traditional music and admire their costumes, especially the emprendada, a spectacular set of gold, silver and coral necklaces that cover women’s chests.
The main fiesta is on the first Sunday of May and includes many activities. Among them all, these are the ones you mustn’t miss:
-The show of ucs, which were the cries used by peasants to communicate when they lived far away from each other.
- The traditional ball pagés which is the traditional Ibizan dance whose singularity makes it a unique folkloric representation in the Mediterranean. This activity takes place in the Town Hall square. Don’t miss it!
- Food tasting including fritters, orelletes (typical cake) and wine. This is offered in Puig de Missa, after mass.
- Exhibition of vintage and historic motorbikes and cars on a drive through the main streets in the village.
- Firework display at night.
Besides all these activities on the big day, there are other activities and events during the days surrounding it. One of the biggest ones is the free outdoor concert organised by the Town Council of Santa Eulària, which usually brings a popular singer or band.
Do you travel with kids?: don’t miss the Barruguet Family Theatre Festival
Barruguet Family Theatre Festival
This cultural event began in 2014 and is another big event in Santa Eulària des Riu held on the last weekend of May. If you’re coming to Ibiza with your kids, don’t miss the Barruguet Family Theatre Festival, which is great for both kids and adults! You’ll find a wide range of shows, some free, some not, played by national and international theatre companies outdoors or in cultural spaces. Many shows are based on body-language and music, so you can enjoy the shows even if you don’t know the language.
Other events in Ibiza in May
Besides these two large events you’ll want to block on your holiday calendar, Ibiza’s cultural and leisure calendar also includes these proposals:
Medieval Eivissa Fair: the old quarters in the city of Ibiza will be filled with crafts and food stalls as well as minstrels, jesters, dancers, magicians and other Medieval figures. In 2024, the Fair will take place from 9th till 12th May.
Fantasía Ibiza Festival: this three-day cross-disciplinary art event takes place in the city of Ibiza and includes performances, music shows, exhibitions, live painting and conferences. It will be held on 17th, 18th and 19th May.
SDL Festival: the Mercado Viejo, the Parque square and Vara de Rey boulevard will be the festival’s stage for different concerts of indie, rock and fusion music. This exciting programme for 2024 will be on 23rd, 24th and 25th May.
Eivissa Medieval, in Ibiza city. © Ibiza.travel
Main picture: NC / Hotel Ánfora
