Mass and Procession at Sant Joan Church
Observe the solemn brass band and community leaders in traditional dress participating in midday rituals in the cathedral.
~12:00
Festes de Sant Joan de Ciutadella
Jun 21 - 24, 2026ExpectedSource
Each June 23, the Menorcan town of Ciutadella holds its ancient Sant Joan festival, where black Menorcan horses rear high on their hind legs in the middle of cheering crowds. Riders from every village lead their adorned horses through the packed streets, in one of the Balearics' most thrilling summer traditions.
Day 4 · Jun 24
Observe the solemn brass band and community leaders in traditional dress participating in midday rituals in the cathedral.
~12:00
Join packed crowds as dozens of decorated horses rear and step in place; participate by reaching up to support the riders for good luck.
~18:00
Ciutadella, Spain
Open in MapsModest attire for church; comfortable clothing for street crowds
If touching riders, be gentle and follow the lead of local participants. Stay out of parade...
During Church events, be quiet and into respectful stance. At the jaleo, be aware horses ar...
Crowd level: very high.
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Festes de Sant Joan de Ciutadella
Ciutadella, Spain
Each June 23, the Menorcan town of Ciutadella holds its ancient Sant Joan festival, where black Menorcan horses rear high on their hind legs in the middle of cheering crowds. Riders from every village lead their adorned horses through the packed streets, in one of the Balearics' most thrilling summer traditions.
The Sant Joan festivities reflect Menorca’s rural past: every village’s “Caixers” (chief riders) visit Ciutadella, showing pride in their horses. The singing of traditional carols (goigs) and the community feeding of horses with grass are unique cultural traits. UNESCO describes it as an expression of Menorcan identity. It’s a folk religion event (the saint’s Feast day) whose rituals go back to attachments between agrarian li...
Observe the solemn brass band and community leaders in traditional dress participating in midday rituals in the cathedral.
Join packed crowds as dozens of decorated horses rear and step in place; participate by reaching up to support the riders for good luck.
first-timer tips
Modest attire for church; comfortable clothing for street crowds
If touching riders, be gentle and follow the lead of local participants. Stay out of parade routes unless invit...
During Church events, be quiet and into respectful stance. At the jaleo, be aware horses are wild; often people...
Ask permission
Jun 21 - 24, 2026
Estimated
Ciutadella
Menorca
Free public events available
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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