The people of Mallorca love to party. They’re famed for their love of Fiestas!
The most interesting celebration in C'an Picafort is the annual "Fiesta of the Ducks". It's held around the 15th of August each year and attracts over 3,000 people. What makes this fiesta slightly different is that it's completely illegal.
During the early afternoon, a number of boats drop anchor in front of the Hotel Sol y Mar and release 350 ducks into the sea. People then dive into the sea and try and capture them as trophies. Most of the ducks are captured and then released at the Torrent de Son Baulo.
The ducks are not meant to be harmed in any way but some have been known to finish up on the dinner table.
Each year the Conselleria d'Agricultura y Pesca warn the town hall of Santa Margalida that this fiesta is illegal yet despite the threat of fines and sanctions, it still goes on regardless. Last year they had to pay 3,000 euros in fines.
No one is exactly sure how this fiesta originated. Many people say it started off as a local game around 80 years ago. A lot of the towns elderly residents say they can remember playing it as kids.
Other celebrations include the Sant Antoni fiesta which takes place on the two days around 16-17 of January each year. This is a celebration of the patron saint of animals and is the first fiesta of the calender year. It's a cosy fiesta where the locals sit around bonfires, singing traditional songs and roasting typical island products. The next day, they have a colourful parade celebrating the blessing of the animals.
The Son Serra fiesta is held on the 16th of July each year, in honour of la Mare de Déu del Carme. Tourists rarely get to see the event, proving that fiestas on the island are in no way just for the benefit of tourism. This is a special event, not to be missed (if you get the chance).
In the centre of Santa Margalida they hold a hold grand fiesta every year on July 20th in honour of their patron saint. It's a full 5 days of non-stop fiesta. This is one of the oldest fiestas in Mallorca; apparently it can be traced back to 1405.
During the 5 day event you'll see a wide range of games, sports and other activities held. The most important one though, is the selection of the “Beatas". These are young girls who are chosen to represent the town.
The last fiesta of the year, on this part of the island, takes places on the first weekend in September. It's held in honour of Sant Catalina Tomas. It's a curious event with devils running through the streets ringing bells and waking up the locals! Afterwards it's traditional parades, dancing, food and drink and some excellent local bands.
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