Background

Semana Santa begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday, with religious processions held in towns and villages across the island. These processions are organised by cofradías – local ‘brotherhoods’ – that take part in Easter week across the island. Some wear long robes and tall pointed hoods—called capirotes—while others don’t, depending on the day and the tradition in each town. They carry religious statues, wooden crosses, candles, and ornate floats through the streets, usually to the beat of a slow drum.

Each procession represents a different moment from the Passion of Christ, and while they’re steeped in symbolism, they’re also an impressive spectacle to watch—especially for children.

Key Dates for 2025

Palm Sunday – 13 April: Processions begin across the island. In Palma, children often carry palm leaves or woven fronds, and you’ll find smaller parades across the island in  towns and villages.

Maundy Thursday – 17 April: The main event in Palma is the Procession of the Holy Christ of the Blood (Processó del Sant Crist de la Sang). This is the largest and most dramatic parade of the week. 

You’ll see all of Palma’s brotherhoods (cofradías)—local groups that have carried out this tradition for generations. They walk slowly through the streets in long robes and pointed hoods covering their faces, often barefoot, carrying heavy wooden crosses, candles, or beautifully decorated religious floats. For younger kids, the hoods may look a little spooky—but they’re a traditional sign of humility before God, not meant to frighten. The candlelight, music and slow, silent pace make this one of the most atmospheric events of the week.

📍Departs 19h (the procession last 3-4hours) from Santuario de la Sang, winding through the Old Town to Palma Cathedral

Good Friday – 18 April: Solemn processions take place across the island, often in the late afternoon or evening. Towns like Pollença, Artà and Inca host atmospheric events while in Palma you can watch a reenactment of Christ’s Passion takes place on the steps of Palma Cathedral at midday (some scenes may be intense for younger children) . In the Evening, the Procession of the Holy Burial (Sant Enterrament) starts at 19h from the Basilica of Sant Francesc, solemnly winding through Palma’s historic streets.

Easter Sunday – 20 April: The joyful ‘Procession of the Encounter’ (Processó de l’Encontre) takes place in the morning in Palma and towns like Pollença, Felanitx and Artà—where statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary meet in front of the Cathedral, followed by music and family celebrations.

Easter celebrations begin and so do the pastries! In a time-honoured tradition, the Padrina (grandmother), daughters and grand-daughters of the family will come together towards the end of Lent to prepare the pastries together. They can also be found at bakeries across the island. Favourites to try include:

  • Panades – filled with lamb, sobrasada, peas or fish
  • Robiols – sweet pastries filled with jam, cheese or cream
  • Crespells – star- and flower-shaped biscuits

Easter Monday – 21 April
A public holiday in Palma and many other towns. It’s traditionally a day when families come to gather for a celebratory meal – with many heading out for a picnic in the sunshine. Beaches, parks and rural picnic spots get busy, so go early and bring your own supplies as most shops and many restaurants will be closed.

Other Family-Friendly Events and Ideas

While processions are the main attraction, some towns also hold Easter markets or special concerts during the week. Check our instagram page for all the latest Easter events (yes, even the Easter bunny will be popping up in a few spots on the island), also check the local Ajuntament (Town Hall) social media page for up to date programs.  

Chocolate lovers of all ages—and anyone chasing a more bunny-shaped Easter—can enjoy Easter-themed window displays and treats at some of the island’s specialist chocolatiers—like Palma’s historic La Pajarita in Palma.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, this is also a brilliant week for outdoor activities: cycling, coastal walks, and garden visits are all in full spring bloom. Check out some of our favourite Spring hikes here

Family Friendly Top Tips

  • Public holiday hours vary – Many shops and supermarkets close early on Maundy Thursday, and most will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday.
  • Public transport runs but may operate on a reduced schedule, especially on public holidays.
  • Processions are slow-paced and often crowded – Arrive early if you want a good spot, then head off to dinner before little legs get tired.

Dates and times are correct at the time of publishing however may be subject to change by the organisers. We recommend checking the Ajuntament’s instagram page to ensure no further updates or schedule changes.