One of Mallorca’s biggest village festivals is back with concerts, traditions and a very unusual race

If you’re looking for an authentic Mallorcan fiesta away from the island’s busiest resorts, Bunyola is once again getting ready to welcome visitors for its annual Festes de Sant Mateu, one of the municipality’s biggest celebrations of the year.

Running from Friday September 11 to 21, the feast day of the town’s patron saint, Sant Mateu, the festivities stretch across several weeks, transforming the peaceful mountain village into a lively hub of music, culture, family entertainment and traditional island customs.

The celebrations are free to attend and take place throughout Bunyola’s streets and main squares, making them an easy day trip from Palma thanks to the historic Palma-Sóller train line that stops in the village.

Music, dancing and Mallorcan traditions

Visitors can expect a packed programme featuring open-air concerts, evening revetlles, folklore performances, exhibitions, children’s activities and the traditional ball de bot, Mallorca’s much-loved folk dancing that brings locals and visitors together in the town squares.

Religious ceremonies remain an important part of the celebrations, with a solemn Mass honouring Sant Mateu sitting alongside community events including tributes to older residents, cultural performances and live entertainment throughout the festival.

Food also plays a starring role, with local bars and restaurants joining the festivities and plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Mallorcan dishes while soaking up the atmosphere.

Don’t miss the famous underwear race

Although Sant Mateu has deep religious roots, Bunyola has also become famous across Mallorca for one event that attracts huge crowds every year – its unforgettable underwear race.

What started as a light-hearted idea among friends has evolved into one of the island’s most talked-about fiesta traditions. Hundreds, and sometimes more than a thousand, participants take to the streets wearing colourful costumes, fancy dress and, of course, their underwear, creating an atmosphere that’s more carnival than competition.

The event has become a social media favourite, drawing visitors from across Mallorca who come to cheer on runners or join in themselves.

Whether you’re travelling with children, interested in experiencing traditional Mallorcan culture or simply looking for a fun September day out, the Festes de Sant Mateu offer a mix of history, community spirit and unforgettable entertainment.

With the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana providing a spectacular backdrop, Bunyola’s biggest celebration is once again set to fill its streets with music, laughter and local pride as summer gives way to autumn.