Sant Sebastià is Palma's biggest winter festival, honoring the city's patron saint. The signature night, La Revetla, takes place on the eve of the feast day, 19 January, when bonfires (foguerons) light up the old town. As the city encourages moving around on foot or by public transport, this guide maps the main bonfire squares and offers practical tips for getting there.
The Tradition of Sant Sebastià and the Revetla Night
The festival dates back to the 16th century when Palma adopted Saint Sebastian as its protector after a plague. Since then, every January the city celebrates with concerts, correfocs, and bonfires. The main event, the Revetla, usually begins around 18:30 and lasts until the early hours, with activities across the center.
During the Revetla, many squares host music stages and bonfires where you can grill your own food. According to the calendar for the 2026 edition, the city set up public grills with firewood and sand at the main squares, and encouraged everyone to move around on foot or by public transport. The atmosphere is communal and free, but the exact schedule and program are not confirmed until early January. For current details, we recommend checking the Ajuntament de Palma announcements, as practical information like timings can change from year to year.
Where the Bonfires Are Lit: The Main Squares
On Revetla night, bonfires are traditionally lit in several central squares of Palma. The main locations are Plaça Major, Plaça de Cort, Plaça d'Espanya, and Plaça Joan Carles I. These are the places where you'll find public grills, firewood, and sand to keep the fire safe.
Each square tends to have its own character: Plaça Major is often the heart of the celebration, while Plaça de Cort hosts the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire after a procession. Since the exact times and activities can vary, it's wise to arrive early and explore on foot, as the squares are close together in the old town.
Some years, villages around Mallorca also light bonfires for Sant Sebastià, blending with Sant Antoni traditions. However, the festival is primarily a city-wide event in Palma. If you're planning to visit other towns, check their municipal agendas for exact locations and hours.
Public Transport Options for the Revetla Night
During the Revetla, Palma's public transport network (EMT) often runs extended services to help people get home safely, though specific routes and schedules are not consistently published in advance. The city's official tourism advice is to use public transport or walk, as many streets are closed to cars and parking is limited.
The exact bus routes and stops are not publicized in the festival program, so check the EMT website or the official tourism information offices for the latest on night services. For up-to-date transport details, you can also ask at your hotel or consult the local transit app.
If you're coming from outside Palma, consider parking at the outskirts and taking public transport into the center. Driving into the old town on Revetla night is usually discouraged due to road closures and congestion. For specific parking options and park-and-ride facilities, it's best to consult official city resources.
Walking and Getting Around the City Centre on Foot
The bonfire squares are all within walking distance of each other in Palma's historic center. Walking is the most reliable and enjoyable way to hop between bonfires, as the festival turns the old town into a pedestrian-friendly celebration. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the cool January night, with layers and closed-toe shoes.
When moving between squares, follow the flow of the crowd and be aware of fire and sparks. The atmosphere is festive, but with large crowds, it's important to keep an eye on your belongings and stay together with your group. If you're with children, agree on a meeting point in case you get separated.
Tips for Enjoying the Bonfires Safely
Enjoying the bonfires responsibly is key. The city provides firewood and sand at each bonfire location to encourage safe use, and adapted grills are often available for those with dietary needs. Always dispose of waste properly and be mindful of the fire's heat.
If you plan to grill, bring your own food – traditional items like sobrassada or sausages – and claim a spot near a bonfire. The city provides grates, not food. Dress in fireproof clothing like long sleeves, and avoid synthetic fabrics that can melt. Follow instructions from stewards and keep a safe distance from the flames.
For those who want to see the correfoc, a fire parade with devils and dragons, heed the safety warnings: wear closed shoes and a hat, and never wear loose clothing. You can enjoy the spectacle from a distance, but the experience is intense – keep children close.
Plan Your Visit: What to Expect on Revetla Night
On Revetla night, expect large crowds and a lively, communal spirit. The festival often includes music stages in the main squares, so you can enjoy live performances while warming by the bonfires. Since the exact lineup and times are not confirmed until early January, check the official program closer to the date.
If you want to experience the traditional elements, look for the lighting of the bonfire in Plaça de Cort and the arrival of the Drac de na Coca. These are usually highlights, but the schedule may change – verify with the official tourism office.
Remember that the festival is mostly free to attend, but some ancillary events like theatre shows may require tickets. For a complete picture of the program, consult the local event calendars.
Additional Sant Sebastià Events and Final Correfoc
Sant Sebastià festivities typically span two weekends in January. Along with the Revetla, there's usually a family day, a major concert night, and various cultural activities. The festival often closes with a spectacular final correfoc and other events.
In the 2026 edition, organisers suspended the official events on 19 January, including the Revetla and the patron saint's day activities, as a sign of mourning after the railway accident in Córdoba. Future editions may see changes to the program, but the tradition of the bonfires is likely to continue. For a broader view of seasonal celebrations, see our guide to festivals across the country.
Plan Your Visit
Sant Sebastià's Revetla is a unique winter experience in Palma, with bonfires lighting up the city's main squares. Plan your visit around the central locations – Plaça Major, Plaça de Cort, Plaça d'Espanya, and Plaça Joan Carles I – and get there on foot or by public transport.
Check official sources closer to the date for the exact program and any changes. Remember to dress warmly, follow safety instructions, and embrace the communal spirit of the night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Sant Sebastià bonfires in Palma?
During the Revetla night, bonfires are lit at Plaça Major, Plaça de Cort, Plaça d'Espanya, and Plaça Joan Carles I. These are the main squares that host public grills and celebrations, but exact locations can vary from year to year.
How do I get to the bonfires using public transport?
The city encourages using public transport and walking. Specific bus routes and schedules are not consistently published, so check the EMT website or official tourism information for the latest on night services and any park-and-ride options.
Is there Uber or Bolt in Palma de Mallorca?
Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt have limited presence in Palma due to local regulations. The most reliable options are official taxis and public buses. During festivals, walking is often the easiest way to get around the city center.
