Pirate Storm in Santa Ponça: Parade, Beach Battle, and Grand Fireworks

Santa Ponça becomes a Stage for Pirates and Knights

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As you stroll through Santa Ponça this afternoon, you quickly notice: this is not a normal September day. Above the Passeig, you can smell fried fish and cotton candy; children carry plastic swords and grandmothers wave from the cafe tables. The Festes del Rei en Jaume transforms the town for a weekend into a mix of medieval market, street festival, and family outing.

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The schedule — compact and practical

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The key times at a glance: 5:30 PM the parade sets off from the large cross. From there it winds along the promenade down to Playa Santa Ponça. Shortly after, the reenactment of the pirate battle begins on the beach. If you want the best spots, you should be there by 5:00 PM; the promenade fills up quickly.

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Music, drums and historical costumes create the atmosphere. There are stalls with crafts, honey, leather goods and a few surprisingly good tapas stands right by the water. Between palms and umbrellas you meet both vacationers and locals from the area — often with a bottle of water in hand and a smile on your face.

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Grand finale with fireworks

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The celebration ends tomorrow evening with a grand fireworks display at 10:30 PM, lit over the sea. With clear skies this is a beautiful ending: lights, waves, a few "oohs" from the promenade. Tip: if you want to take photos, find a spot on the rocks next to the beach — less crowding and a good line of sight.

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A few practical notes: parking is scarce, especially in the streets around Cala. Bus lines typically run more often, so it's better to come by bus or bike. Keep an eye on small children — the crowds, the music and the fog machines in front of the stage are fun but can be overwhelming. First aid points are on site, and local stewards ensure safety.

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If you have time, take a stroll through the medieval market. Sometimes you'll find things you don't need but definitely want to keep: a handmade wooden box, an unusual candle, or that mug you must take home when you leave. And yes: by the end you smell a bit of incense wood, but that's part of it.

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So, shorts, a jacket for later, and perhaps an umbrella in the trunk — September weather changes quickly. Enjoy Santa Ponça, and don't forget: the 5:30 PM start at the large cross.