Sant Antoni (Saint Anthony) is the patron saint of animals. Bonfires, singing and dancing, devil-chasing and parades take place, followed by a street party that runs late into the night on the 17th January.
The main celebration is the dance of the devils ('dimonis'), which represent the devils that tempted Sant Antoni.
This day is celebrated in Manacor, Artà, Pollença, Sa Pobla, Son Servera, Andratx, Algaida and Muro (click on the links to see the programmes). Other areas also celebrate this popular festival and, in many villages, domestic animals are blessed in the local churches.
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Venue
Towns and villages across Mallorca
History
The biggest celebrations take place in the northern town of Sa Pobla where they can be traced back to the Middle Ages. First documented in 1365, they celebrate the town's patron saint. The main event is on the eve of the day of Saint Anthony, the 16th, when over a hundred bonfires are lit around the village. The streets fill with music and singing, as well as with demons and the party continues well into the morning.
