Every September, the coastal town of Santa Ponsa in Mallorca transforms into a living, breathing history book. The air fills with the sounds of medieval music, the aroma of a bustling market, and the joyous cheers of a community coming together to honor a pivotal moment in the island's past. This is the Festes del Rei en Jaume, a vibrant festival that commemorates the landing of King Jaume I and the beginning of the Christian conquest of Mallorca in 1229. More than just a celebration, it is a spectacular tribute to the island's rich heritage, blending historical reenactments with modern festivities to create an unforgettable experience.
A Glimpse into History: The Landing of 1229
The festival's roots lie in the monumental event of September 10, 1229. After a long period of Moorish rule, King Jaume I of Aragon, a young and ambitious monarch, set his sights on conquering Mallorca. He assembled a formidable fleet of over 150 vessels and an army of Catalan troops. Their journey was perilous, but they successfully landed in the bay of Santa Ponsa, a strategic point that would serve as their entry to the island.
This landing marked the beginning of a fierce and bloody campaign against the ruling Saracens. The initial battle took place at the very spot of their arrival, now commemorated by a large stone cross, the Creu de Santa Ponça. It was a decisive victory for Jaume I's forces, setting the stage for the eventual capture of Palma and the complete reconquest of the island. This historical narrative is the heart and soul of the festival, a story of courage, conquest, and the forging of a new identity for Mallorca. The Festes del Rei en Jaume were first officially celebrated in 1929, marking the 700th anniversary of this historic event. Since then, the tradition has evolved into an annual spectacle, becoming a cherished part of the island’s cultural calendar.
The 2025 Festival Agenda
This year, the festival celebrates the 796th anniversary of the landing in Santa Ponça and will run from August 27 to September 7, 2025. Here is the full agenda of events:
Saturday, August 23: The festival begins with a sporting event, the XXX Vuelta a las Illes Malgrat with Canoe at 10:00 a.m.
Monday 25 to Wednesday 27, August: A Children's workshop is offered at the Santa Ponça Sports Center from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for children aged 3 to 12.
Wednesday, August 27: The Premis Rei En Jaume 2025 exhibition is inaugurated at 7:30 p.m. at the Calvià Town Hall.
Thursday, August 28: The Commemorative Act of the 796th Anniversary of the Landing of King James takes place at the Santa Ponça Cross at 8:00 p.m., with Lolo Garner as the town crier.
Friday, August 29: A Popular Mixed Beach Volleyball Tournament will be held on Santa Ponça beach from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. In the evening, there is a two-hour show, revista de 25 anys de Madò Pereta, at 10:00 p.m., followed by the Sasenak Symphony until 2:30 a.m., both at the Plaza de la Pinada.
Saturday, August 30: The XXIV Trobada de Gegants de Calvià (Giants Meeting) parades from the Plaza de la Pinada at 7:00 p.m. Later, a Ballada popular with the group Al Mayurqa takes place at 10:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 31: A theatrical and musical show for the Presentation of the Flags and the Kings of the Festival is held at the Plaza de la Pinada at 8:00 p.m., followed by Swing Night with Ponent Big Band at 9:30 p.m.
Monday, September 1: This day is dedicated to families with a Children's afternoon and a Children's foam party and disco at the Plaza de la Pinada from 6:00 p.m. onward.
Tuesday, September 2: The spectacular Nit de Foc with Dimonis del Comte Mal lights up the Plaza de la Pinada, with a children's correfoc at 9:00 p.m. and an adults' correfoc at 10:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 3: A Cultural Route reenacts the landing of King James with historian Gaspar Valero at the Santa Ponça Cross at 7:00 p.m. A Cinema on the beach screening of "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is scheduled for 10:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 4: The Medieval market opens on the Santa Ponça beach promenade from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. In the evening, a Comedy night featuring Rubén García and Javito Rivas takes place at 9:00 p.m.
Friday, September 5: The Medieval market continues from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The Moorish Parade starts at 8:00 p.m., followed by a Big concert night with Los Javaloyas and Fandango All Stars at 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 6: The day is filled with the Nordic Walking Festival at 9:00 a.m., the XXX Swimming Crossing at 12:00 p.m., and the main event: the reenactment of the battles between the Moorish and Christian troops, culminating in the Final Battle on Santa Ponça beach. The night ends with a Concert night at the Plaza de la Pinada from 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.
Sunday, September 7: The Medieval market is open for its final day from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The festival concludes with the Concierto Son mezcla'o at 9:00 p.m. and a grand Fireworks display on the Santa Ponça beach at 10:30 p.m.
A Modern-Day Tradition
The Festes del Rei en Jaume is more than a simple historical reenactment. It is a powerful community event that fosters a deep connection to Mallorca's past. The festival brings together people of all ages, with families and friends participating as both spectators and actors in the reenactments. The tradition of dressing up as either a Christian or a Moor, and taking part in the parades and battles, creates a sense of belonging and shared heritage. The festival is a testament to the resilience of tradition and the enduring power of a good story.
For visitors, it’s a unique opportunity to witness the island’s cultural richness and be part of a celebration that is both entertaining and deeply meaningful. The Festes del Rei en Jaume is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the heart of Mallorcan culture, history, and community spirit. It's a reminder that the past is not just a collection of dates and names, but a vibrant force that continues to shape the present.
