Fiestes de Sant Pere 2016
Andratx celebrates their patron saint with a wide variety of activities
Although Sant Pere, or Saint Peter, falls on the 29th June, the town of Andratx allocates over a week of festivities to celebrating their patron saint.
From the last week in June into the first week of July for the Fiestes de Sant Pere there is a busy programme of activities for all the family. Traditional customs, sporting events, outdoor eating and live music are just some of the ingredients of this popular holiday.
The fiesta is primarily an opportunity to promote Mallorcan culture. A few years ago the tradition of 'Las Madones' was readopted. Local women dress up in 16th century garb, harkening to a time when the women of the village were said to have been of significant help in defending Andratx from pirates of the Ottoman empire. With the soundtrack of the traditional Xeremiers playing their bagpipes, the town invites spectators to remember its history.
As well as keeping traditions alive, these fiestas are a wonderful exercise in bringing together the community. There is something for every age and a real variety of events. Perhaps it would be easier to say what isn't included in this fiesta! Last year there was a triathlon, a game of giant chess, a rally of classic motorbikes, horse and cart obstacle courses and a Poker tournament. There are plenty of contests too, from sporting to painting, photography and paella making. The great thing about the latter is that the public then gets to eat the paella.
On 29th June at 11.00 there is a special mass at the church of Santa Maria de Andratx. This is normally followed by a lively procession, prize giving events for the past contests and a continuation of the festivities.
The full programme will be released on Friday 17th June.
