The Festes de la Mare de Déu de Gràcia in Mahón, capital of Menorca, are the island’s most vibrant September celebrations. The Festes de Gràcia are celebrated annually and are one of the most anticipated summer events in Mahón.

It is important to note that the Festes de Gràcia in Mahón are distinct from the famous ‘Fiestas de Gràcia’ or ‘Gràcia Festival’ held in Barcelona, which is renowned for its decorated streets and lively competitions. The Barcelona event is a renowned Catalan festival. The Menorcan event is one of the most famous in the island. However, both festivals share a tradition of vibrant community festivities in Spain.

As a multi-day festival, the event brings together the community for a week of celebrations, and knowing the exact date is essential for planning your visit and ensuring you don’t miss any of the highlights. Discover history, traditions, horses, fireworks, and how to experience them with SHIP (Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme).

Festes de Gràcia Mahón 2025 at a Glance

• Location: Mahón, Menorca, Balearic Islands
• Official Dates: The festival takes place from August 29 – September 9, 2025
• Main Days: The main celebration takes place on September 7 & 8
• Highlights: Jaleo horse parade and parade of horses, fireworks, street dinners, giants’ parade
• Official Program: The 2025 edition includes over 130 events from August 25 to September 13, with the main protocol acts on September 6–8. Find the official schedule and program for Major de Gràcia 2025 on the event’s official website.
• Official Poster: Designed by local artist Elsa Pons Villalonga, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Cós horse races.
• Tip: Book accommodation in Mahón well in advance

Elsa Pons Villalonga is the designer of the 2025 poster; 14,000 printed copies will be distributed to households, with shorter editions for hotels and a digital version available in multiple languages (Catalan, Spanish, English, plus French, German, and Italian).

A Festival That Defines the Capital

Mahón, the capital of Menorca, is often admired for its natural harbor, historic streets, and Mediterranean charm. But every September, the city transforms into a stage of music, horses, and celebration during the Festes de la Mare de Déu de Gràcia (Our Lady of Grace Festival), which is celebrated throughout the neighborhoods of Mahón, with each neighborhood actively participating in the festivities and decorations. As the city’s main festival, it stands out among the region’s traditional fiestas and has been celebrated for several years, highlighting its long-standing tradition and deep roots in the local culture. The Festes de Gràcia are an important part of Mahón’s cultural heritage, preserving and showcasing the city’s unique identity.

In 2025, the festival program was presented at Es Freginal Park with the mayor and community groups, highlighting the collaborative nature of the event

This is not just another fiesta. It is the cultural heartbeat of the capital, blending deep religious devotion with community spirit, iconic horse traditions, and unforgettable fireworks.

The main activities of the festival include the traditional horse parades, live music performances, neighborhood decorations, giants’ parades and spectacular fireworks displays. All of these performances and activities are free of charge, encouraging broad participation. Many of the festival’s events and activities are offered de gracia, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the celebrations regardless of background or means. Some events and decorations are organized around specific themes each year, adding creativity and variety to the celebrations. These main activities showcase the vibrant culture and unity of Mahón’s community.

In 2025, Festes de Gràcia will take place from August 29 to September 9, with the main celebrations on September 7 and 8. Whether you’re a visitor or a student on our SHIP programme, it’s the best time of year to see Mahón come alive.

The Build-Up: Anticipation in the Capital

August 29 – Street Dinners (Sopars al carrer)

The festival begins with food and community. Families, neighbors, and visitors gather at long tables set up across Mahón’s neighborhoods. Dishes like sobrasada, Mahón cheese, and fresh pastries fill the tables, and drinks flow freely, especially pomada, a refreshing mix of Menorcan gin and lemonade.

It’s the perfect introduction to the warmth of Mahón’s people, and these street dinners are an event for the whole family. These street dinners are a cherished part of Mahón’s local traditions.

August 30 – Pilgrimage to the Hermitage (Romeria a l’ermita)

The following day, the capital organizes a pilgrimage from the center to the Hermitage of Our Lady of Grace. Families walk together carrying flowers, accompanied by musicians and dancers performing traditional folk dances. It’s a beautiful display of faith and community.

September 4 – The Giants’ Parade (Trobada de gegants)

A festival favorite for children, this event is one of the most anticipated exhibitions of the festival, featuring giant papier-mâché figures parading and dancing through Mahón’s streets. It’s playful, colorful, and full of life.

Main Festival Days: September 7–9

September 7 – Saturday of Grace (Dissabte de Gràcia)

The most important day often begins with an official opening ceremony, featuring an opening speech delivered by a notable figure, marking the official start of the festival’s main celebrations. This is followed by the arrival of the Fabioler, the flute player who officially requests permission to start the celebrations. Soon after, the Caixer Fadrí (young bachelor rider) and the Colcada (parade of riders and horses) bring the streets of the capital to life.

At 16:00, bells ring across the city as the cavalcade sets out to the Hermitage, where the Compline is sung and riders are offered aigua-ros (rose water).

The Jaleo: The Capital’s Signature Moment

For the first time, parade routes for the giants and horses can be followed live on the festival website via GPS, allowing visitors to track the processions in real time.

In Plaça de la Constitució, the city’s main public square, thousands gather for the Jaleo, the most iconic part of the festival. Here, black Menorcan horses rear up on their hind legs while surrounded by cheering crowds. Touching the horse as it rises is believed to bring good luck, and the energy of the square is unforgettable music, bells, and clapping echo through the capital.

Fireworks, Music, and Nightlife

As night falls, Mahón glows with fireworks, concerts, and live music, all part of the festival’s vibrant nighttime festivities. Open-air dances last until dawn, and the capital’s streets become one big party.

Many of the concerts and dances are free of charge, making the festivities accessible to everyone.

September 8 – Day of Grace (Dia de Gràcia)

The second day balances religious devotion with festive excitement.

• Morning: Riders and locals attend the Mass of the Caixers, honoring the Virgin of Grace, who is the patron saint of Mahón.
• Afternoon: Another round of Jaleo fills the main square, followed by the Corregudes at Cós de Gràcia, a spirited competition featuring thrilling horse races through Mahón’s streets that draws enthusiastic crowds. In many Catalan festivals, ‘fire runs’ (Correfocs) are a traditional highlight, with participants running through the streets with fireworks, creating a lively and fiery atmosphere. While not a central feature in Mahón, fire runs remain an iconic part of the broader festival tradition.
• Evening: Music and fireworks keep the capital alive late into the night.

September 9 – Second Day of Grace (Segona Festa de Gràcia)

The festival’s finale moves to Mahón’s harbor, where the much-anticipated harbor festivities take place at one of the largest natural ports in the Mediterranean.

Here, the waterfront fills with families, visitors, and boats gathering in the bay for the final event: a spectacular aquatic fireworks display. Lights reflect across the water, music carries through the harbor, and Mahón bids farewell to its biggest festival until next year.

Security at the port is managed by the port police to ensure safe coexistence among thousands of visitors. Meanwhile, the Confraria de la Mare de Déu de Gràcia quietly sustains the religious side of the festival, caring for the sanctuary and the image of the Virgin.

Horses: The Soul of Festes de Gràcia

At the heart of the festival are the Menorcan horses, a breed known for their elegance, strength, and glossy black coats. The Festes de Gràcia are deeply rooted in Menorca’s equestrian tradition, highlighting the cultural importance of horses in the island’s history.

• Caixers (Riders): Each has a symbolic role, from the Caixer Capellà (chaplain) to the Caixer Casat (married man) and the Caixer Fadrí (young bachelor). Their traditional black tailcoats and white sashes symbolize respect and tradition.
• The Jaleo’s Symbolism: More than just entertainment, the Jaleo represents unity between horse, rider, and the community of Mahón.

The tradition of Menorcan horses in the Festes de Gràcia has been celebrated for several years, making it a cherished part of Mahón’s heritage.

The Junta de Caixers, created in 1984, formalized protocols for attire and parade order, ensuring tradition is preserved.

A Festival Rooted in the History of the Mediterranean Sea

15th century: First hermitage dedicated to Our Lady of Grace built, marking the historical roots of the Festes de Gràcia.

1729: Brotherhood founded to honor her.

1890: Mahón officially shifted its main annual festival to September.

The 19th century brought social and political change in Spain, shaping local traditions. The Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) also left its mark on community life.

During the Spanish Empire, Menorca and the Balearic Islands saw foreign influence, including British control, which shaped the island’s cultural landscape.

1984: Festival protocol formalized, ensuring traditions remain alive.

Today, Festes de Gràcia is a proud reflection of Mahón’s cultural identity as Menorca’s capital. Last year, the festival introduced new activities and measures to further enhance inclusivity, continuing the evolution seen over several years and connecting with the broader tradition of the Festes de Gràcia.

Decorations and Infrastructure: Transforming Mahón for the Festes

Every August, Mahón undergoes a magical transformation as the city prepares for the much-anticipated Festes de Gràcia 2025. The city council works tirelessly to turn the heart of Mahón into a dazzling festival venue, with streets and squares adorned in vibrant decorations that reflect the year’s chosen theme. These decorations and installations are a vibrant form of artistic expression, showcasing the creativity and spirit of de gràcia. Expect to see colorful banners, intricate lighting displays, and creative installations that bring the spirit of de gràcia to life.

To ensure an unforgettable experience for all visitors, the city will be equipped with temporary stages for live music, dedicated food and drink stalls, and special activity zones for children and families. The city council is also committed to making the festival accessible to everyone, with improved routes and facilities for those with reduced mobility, so that every guest can enjoy the festivities comfortably. Whether you’re wandering through decorated streets or relaxing in a bustling square, the infrastructure of Festes de gràcia 2025 promises a seamless and immersive celebration for all.

Organization and Support: The People Behind the Festes

Behind the scenes of the Festes de Gràcia 2025 is a passionate team of organizers, volunteers, and community members who pour their hearts into making the festival a success. The city council plays a pivotal role, providing essential support, resources, and funding to bring the festival to life.

The festival committee, which also serves as the organizing committee for the Festes de Gràcia, is the official body responsible for organizing the event. It coordinates every detail, from scheduling events to overseeing logistics, always working closely with residents to ensure the festival reflects the true spirit of Mahón.

Volunteers are the backbone, handling everything from decorations to visitor support, ensuring smooth and memorable experiences for all.

The official festival booklet also dedicates its inner pages to recognizing the people who make the celebrations possible, including Local Police, Civil Protection, Red Cross, health staff, sound and image technicians, bands, horse caretakers, Purple Point staff, and festival organizers.

The Local Community: Heartbeat of the Festes

At the core of the Festes de Gràcia lies the vibrant local community of the Balearic Islands. Families, neighbors, and friends collaborate to organize dinners, parades, and performances, transforming Mahón into a living showcase of Spanish culture and Mediterranean traditions. Neighborhood associations play a key role in organizing events and decorations, ensuring that each participating street contributes to the festival’s unique atmosphere. Participating streets play a key role in the festival, coming together to create themed decorations and events, while several streets across Mahón unite in solidarity and collective effort, highlighting the strong sense of community during the fiestas.

This festival is a testament to the enduring bonds that connect communities across the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.

Neighbourhood associations are particularly important in organizing community dinners (‘sopars populars’), decorations, and social activities. While they face challenges such as bureaucracy and succession planning, they remain the backbone of the community’s festive spirit.

Inclusive Activities and Events for All

The Festes de Gràcia 2025 are designed to be a true celebration of community spirit, welcoming everyone to join in the fun. As an inclusive festival, the event embraces diversity and ensures that all participants feel part of the celebration. The city council has curated a diverse programme of events to ensure that visitors of all ages and abilities can take part in the festivities. From lively street concerts and traditional folk dances to interactive workshops and games for children, there’s something for every member of the family.

Inclusivity is at the heart of the festival, with dedicated services and facilities for people with functional diversity. This includes accessible toilets and reserved seating areas, ensuring that everyone can fully participate in the celebration. The festival’s commitment to accessibility and community spirit makes de Festes de Gràcia 2025 a standout event in the city’s calendar, where every visitor feels welcome and valued.

Fairs and Markets: The Festive Marketplace Experience

No visit to the Festes de Gràcia 2025 would be complete without exploring the lively fairs and markets that pop up throughout Mahón. Among the market offerings, you’ll find craft stalls featuring handmade goods alongside stalls brimming with local crafts, artisanal foods, and unique souvenirs. From handmade jewelry to traditional Menorcan delicacies, the markets offer a true taste of local culture and creativity.

Families and children will love the fairground area, filled with rides and games that add an extra layer of excitement to the celebration. Street food stalls serve up a tempting array of local and international flavors, making it easy to sample something new as you soak up the festive atmosphere. The fairs and markets are a cornerstone of the Festes de Gràcia, bringing together residents and visitors in a joyful celebration of community, tradition, and the vibrant spirit of de Festes de Gràcia 2025.

Economic Impact and Tourism

Tourism is vital for Menorca’s economy. Ferries and cruise ships bring thousands of visitors, and Menorca Airport connects the island to Europe. During the Festes, hotels and transport fill quickly, making early booking essential. Local businesses benefit from the increased tourism during the festival, as the influx of visitors boosts sales and services. To avoid congestion and facilitate easier travel during the busy festival period, using public transport is highly recommended.

Alongside tourism, Menorca’s agriculture, cheese, wine, and olive oil support local identity and exports.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Menorca faces challenges such as climate change, over-tourism, and pollution. The Balearic Islands’ government works on sustainable tourism initiatives to preserve beaches, coves, and marine ecosystems.

Protected reserves and eco-conscious travel policies help keep Menorca a pristine Mediterranean destination.

Cultural Heritage and Preservation: Safeguarding Mahón’s Festive Traditions

The Festes de Gràcia is much more than a summer celebration; it is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of the neighborhood and the city of Mahón. Each year, the city council, local organizations, and passionate residents join forces to ensure that the traditions and customs of the Festes de Gràcia are preserved for future generations.

Throughout the festival, visitors and locals alike are treated to a dazzling array of exhibitions, parades, and live music performances that showcase the unique identity of the neighborhood. Many streets and squares become the heart of the celebration, filled with the sounds of musicians and the joyful energy of the community. Residents and visitors gather to witness traditional dances and processions that have been passed down through generations.

Preserving these festive traditions is a collective effort, with the city council providing essential support and resources to local groups dedicated to maintaining the authenticity of the event. Community associations, cultural organizations, and neighborhood committees all play a vital role in organizing the festivities, ensuring that the Festes de Gràcia remains true to its roots. This commitment to cultural preservation is what makes the gràcia festival such a beloved event, drawing thousands of visitors each year to experience the unique blend of tradition, celebration, and community spirit that defines the neighborhood.

Media and Promotion: Spreading the Spirit of Festes de Gràcia

The Festes de Gràcia owe much of its enduring popularity to the dynamic media and promotional efforts that bring the event to life for both residents and visitors. The city council, together with local organizations, leverages a wide range of media channels to ensure that the spirit of de gràcia reaches every corner of Mahón and beyond. The official website of the Festes de Gràcia serves as a comprehensive resource, offering detailed programmes, interactive maps and up-to-date information.

Social media platforms play a pivotal role in amplifying the excitement, with dedicated accounts and the popular hashtag keeping the community connected and informed throughout the summer. Local newspapers, magazines, and television stations feature special coverage of the festivities, highlighting the unique events, exhibitions, and parades that make the festival a highlight of the city’s calendar.

Promotion extends beyond digital and print media, as local businesses and community groups actively participate in spreading the festive atmosphere. Stalls and shops in the heart of the neighborhood offer traditional cuisine and crafts, while musical groups add to the spectacle with their vibrant performances. The involvement of these groups, along with the support of the city council, ensures that the Festes de Gràcia remains a true celebration of community and tradition.

Thanks to these dedicated promotional efforts, the Festes de Gràcia continues to attract thousands of visitors each year, cementing its place as one of Mahón’s most anticipated end-of-summer events. Whether you’re a resident or a first-time visitor, the festival’s unique blend of tradition, culture, and celebration promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the capital of Menorca.

2025 Highlights in Mahón and the Balearic Islands

• Commemorative Poster: Designed by local artist Elsa Pons Villalonga, this year’s official commemorative poster captures the spirit of the festival. In previous years, artists such as Manuela Serrat Crehuet have also contributed to the visual identity of the festival through their poster designs.
• Historic Donation: Margarida Orfila Rotger donated an album of old festival photos to Mahón’s archives.

Transportation and Accessibility: Getting to and Around Mahón During the Festes

Navigating the vibrant streets and bustling squares of the Festes de Gràcia is all part of the adventure during this iconic seven-day festival. Shutt

le buses are available to help visitors get to and from key festival locations, making transportation more convenient for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan of the Festes de Gràcia, getting to and around Mahón is easier than ever, thanks to thoughtful planning by the city council and a strong sense of community spirit.

The festival website now offers a dynamic map with traffic updates, parking zones, parade routes, and shuttle stops, as well as live streaming of the opening speech and the jaleos, making navigation and planning easier than ever.

How to Experience Festes de Gràcia in Mahón

Best Places to Watch

• Plaça de la Constitució – one of the best viewing points for the Jaleo
• Cós de Gràcia – a top viewing point for the horse races
• Mahón Harbor – a prime viewing point for the fireworks finale
• Plaça de la Revolució – a recommended viewing point for safety points and services

Travel & Accommodation Tips

• Getting there: Fly into Menorca Airport or take a ferry from Barcelona, Valencia, or Mallorca.
• Where to stay:
• Central Mahón in the middle of the action
• Es Castell & Sant Lluís, quieter but close
• Agroturismos, rural farm stays for peace after the parties
  There are a variety of accommodation options available in Mahón and nearby areas to suit different preferences and budgets.
• Book early: Hotels fill up months before September.

Food & Drink to Try

• Pomada – gin Xoriguer and lemonade
• Queso de Mahón – Menorca’s famous cheese
• Ensaimadas & pastries – perfect festival snacks

The festival is a great opportunity to sample local cuisine, with a variety of traditional foods and drinks available throughout the event.

Safety and Security in Menorca

Menorca is one of Spain’s safest islands, with low crime rates, effective police, and excellent emergency services. Visitors can feel confident while enjoying the festival atmosphere.

Experience Festes de Gràcia with SHIP (Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme)

Reading about Festes de Gràcia is one thing; living it as part of a family in Mahón is something else entirely. That’s exactly what our Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) offers, providing a unique opportunity for cultural immersion during the Festes de Gràcia.

• Share dinners with your host family.
• Join the pilgrimage to the Hermitage.
• Celebrate the Jaleo together.
• Watch fireworks at the harbor with locals.

With SHIP, students don’t just improve their Spanish—they become part of Mahón’s community during its most authentic festival.

Frequently Asked Questions About Festes de Gràcia

Official Website and Resources for Festes de Gràcia in Mahón

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the Festes de la Mare de Déu de Gràcia in Mahón, the official festival website festesdegracia.es is an invaluable resource. Managed by the Mahón City Council, this site serves as the central hub for all festival-related news, schedules, and announcements.

Comprehensive Festival Program

The website provides a detailed and downloadable program of events, covering over 130 activities spanning from late August to mid-September. Visitors can explore schedules for the main protocol days, cultural performances, parades, concerts, and family-friendly activities. This allows attendees to plan their visit

When are the Festes de la Mare de Déu de Gràcia in Mahón in 2025? August 29 to September 9, with main events September 7–8.

Is the festival free? Yes, all major events are free.

Is it safe for families? Yes. The giants’ parade and fireworks are family favorites. For the Jaleo, keep a safe distance from children.

Do I need tickets? No. Arrive early for the best spots.

What’s the traditional drink? The pomada, gin with lemonade.

How crowded does Mahón get? Very crowded, book accommodation in advance.

How does it compare to Ciutadella’s Sant Joan Festival? Sant Joan is larger and world-famous, but Festes de Gràcia is Mahón’s pride, more intimate and community-focused.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothes and shoes. Many locals wear white shirts and blue scarves.

How do I get to Mahón? By plane to Menorca Airport, or ferry from Barcelona, Valencia, or Mallorca.

Where can I find the official festival guide for Festes de Gràcia? The official festival guide is usually available on the Mahón town hall website and at local tourist information centers before and during the event.

Why You Should Experience Festes de Gràcia in Mahón

The Festes de Gràcia Mahón 2025 are more than just a festival—they are the soul of Menorca’s capital and truly an unforgettable experience. It’s where devotion, tradition, and joy come together in the streets of Mahón.

👉 Ready to experience Festes de Gràcia like a local? Join our SHIP (Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme) and celebrate Mahón’s greatest tradition while improving your Spanish.