Valldemossa prepares for Mallorca’s most magical summer celebration honouring its only saint

Every summer, the peaceful mountain village of Valldemossa transforms into one of Mallorca’s most colourful and emotional festival destinations, and in 2026 the much-loved Festes de la Beata promises nearly two weeks of tradition, music and community celebrations.

Running from Friday July 17 to July 28, this year’s programme will once again honour Santa Catalina Tomàs, affectionately known across the island as La Beata – the only saint born in Mallorca and one of its most cherished historical figures. The festival attracts thousands of residents and visitors who come to experience a celebration unlike any other on the island.

A festival rooted in Mallorcan identity

While Valldemossa is famous year-round for its stone streets, flower-filled balconies and connections to Frédéric Chopin and George Sand, the village takes on an entirely different atmosphere during the Festes de la Beata.

The celebration commemorates the life of Catalina Tomàs, who was born in Valldemossa in 1531 before later becoming Mallorca’s only canonised saint. Since her beatification in the 18th century, annual festivities have grown into one of the island’s best-known religious and cultural traditions.

Visitors can expect traditional music, folk dancing, concerts, sporting events, family activities and religious ceremonies spread throughout the historic village over almost two weeks.

The famous Triumphal Chariot returns

The undisputed highlight arrives on July 28, when Valldemossa stages its spectacular Carro Triomfal procession.

A young local girl is chosen to portray La Beata as she travels through the streets aboard an elaborately decorated triumphal chariot, accompanied by angels, musicians, dancers and beautifully adorned floats depicting scenes from the saint’s life.

The procession is one of Mallorca’s most photographed annual events, drawing crowds that line the narrow streets hours before it begins. Traditional xeremiers (Mallorcan bagpipers), brass bands and performers in historic costume create an unforgettable atmosphere that blends religious devotion with island folklore.

Nearly two weeks of celebrations

Although the grand procession attracts the headlines, the festival offers far more than a single day of festivities.

This year’s programme includes cultural performances, live music, sporting competitions, workshops, exhibitions, popular dances, children’s entertainment and community meals designed to bring locals and visitors together. Around 50 events are scheduled across the festival period, ensuring there is something happening almost every day.

Many events are free to attend, making the celebration one of the best opportunities to experience authentic Mallorcan culture beyond the island’s beaches.

A summer highlight in the Tramuntana

For anyone visiting Mallorca in late July, the Festes de la Beata offers a chance to experience a side of the island that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Against the stunning backdrop of the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana, visitors can watch centuries-old traditions come alive while enjoying one of Mallorca’s prettiest villages at its liveliest.

With its combination of history, faith, music and community spirit, the festival continues to be one of the island’s most treasured annual celebrations and is expected to once again attract large crowds throughout the final weeks of July.