New Year's Eve in Spain is more than just a countdown. It is a celebration full of rituals, which is celebrated loudly, lively and with a good dose of cava. And on Mallorca, the whole thing gets an extra dose of Mediterranean charm. But what makes the turn of the year so special on the island and throughout the country?
Let's start with the Spanish answer to "Dinner for One": the twelve grapes. They are swallowed at the stroke of midnight - one per chime, of course. Those who manage to eat the grapes in time with the clock are said to be lucky in the new year. Can't make it? No problem - with a little cava, the bad luck simply rolls away.
In Palma, people meet in Plaça d'Espanya to count the bells together. But the true soul of the Mallorcan New Year lies in the market squares of the villages. Here, in places like Santanyí, Sóller or Pollença, neighbors come together, bring home-picked grapes in small tins and wish each other a happy new year. Some cut the grapes in half in advance - a Mallorcan abbreviation for "better safe than sorry".
After the grapes, the sky lights up in bright colors. While Palma puts on a professional fireworks display over the bay, the locals take charge in the villages. The result is a wonderful jumble of rockets flying higher and lower and a shower of sparks that makes the crowd laugh. It's spirited, hearty and absolutely Mallorcan.
After midnight, the market squares are transformed into small dance floors. Whether DJ, live band or someone with a guitar - the music ranges from international hits to spontaneous Mallorcan songs. People dance, laugh and clink glasses again and again. And if someone is wearing red underwear? That's no coincidence. This tradition is supposed to bring love and happiness into the new year. But beware: it has to be a gift, otherwise the magic doesn't work - at least that's what many people believe.
In culinary terms, New Year's Eve on Mallorca has its own charm. In addition to classic Mallorcan dishes such as sopa de navidad or turrón, some also serve seafood and lamb. And what better accompaniment than a glass of cava? Even if the year hasn't been perfect, a good sip of bubbly will smooth things over.
And then there are the brave ones who start the new year with a dip in the Mediterranean. Whether in Port de Pollença or Cala Ratjada - those who dare to follow this tradition believe in a fresh start that can only be achieved with cold water. Others are drawn to the Tramuntana on New Year's morning, where a walk through nature helps to digest the long nights - or what's left of them.
New Year's Eve on Mallorca and in Spain is loud, colorful and full of laughter - a start to the new year as it should be. Whether in the market squares of the villages, on the beach or in Palma's old town, the Mallorcans and their guests know how to celebrate. And as the chimes of the clock fade away, one thing remains certain: life on Mallorca always begins with a smile - and perhaps a few grapes.
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