Maris Galicia Seafood Fair kicks off in Palma — three weeks of seafood and Albariño

Palma smells like the sea: The Maris Galicia is back

Anyone passing the city entrance in the Nou Llevant district this morning immediately noticed that something is happening. Smoke from grilled squid hangs in the air, hawkers urge people to try lobster and mussels, and at the stalls small groups form, sampling, chatting and smiling. The Maris Galicia has begun – and will stay until September 28.

What stands out right away: The offering is abundant. Organizers speak of more than 40 tons of seafood and around 15,000 bottles of Albariño from Galicia, which will move over the counter in the coming weeks. For locals and visitors, a hearty portion of the sea on the plate.

The fair is not only about raw goods. There is live cooking, small bistros with regional recipes, and in the evenings people often eat together at long tables – I saw families with children, couples and tourists sharing a glass of white wine in the early evening. Musicians occasionally throw in a few chords, keeping the mood relaxed.

Practical: Admission is free; stalls are grouped along the access roads to the port. Typically Mallorcan: if you arrive late, you should expect to be patient, but the wait is usually worth it. Cash is still accepted at many stalls, card payment is increasingly possible.

For those who want to know more: The event runs daily, and it is worth stopping by around 7:00 PM when the grills fire up and the aromas are strongest. The official page of the fair has further details on opening hours and program.

My impression after the first day: authentic, loud, tasty. Not a gourmet temple, but a really good seafood market atmosphere where you simply sample, ask questions and enjoy. So: plan for good weather, bring an appetite, and ideally have an open bottle of Albariño ready — or buy one on site.