La Beata – Santa Margalida’s Patron Fiesta
The La Beata fiesta in Santa Margalida, Mallorca, is a unique and culturally rich celebration held annually in honour of Santa Catalina Thomàs, the only saint from the Balearic Islands. The festival is a significant event in the town of Santa Margalida, where the local community pays tribute to this beloved figure through a series of traditional and religious events.
Historical Background
Santa Catalina Thomàs, often referred to affectionately as “La Beata,” was born in Valldemossa, Mallorca, in 1531. She became a nun and was known for her piety and visions. She was beatified in 1792 and canonized in 1930. Her life and sanctity have a special resonance in Mallorca, and her legacy is celebrated in various towns across the island.
Statue Procession
The highlight of the fiesta is the procession of La Beata’s statue through the streets of Santa Margalida. A girl from the town, who is chosen several weeks before in a draw of around 20 young women who put their name forward, dresses up as Santa Catalina Thomàs and represents her purity and innocence during the procession. Accompanied by other children dressed as angels and historical figures, she leads the procession, which always has 12 floats that symbolize the saint’s journey through life.
In the past there have been about 2,000 participants who dress in traditional folkwear. There are music bands including the xeremiers (pipers) who play the Sor Tomasseta – the traditional song of the fiesta.
The Devils and the Jarras de la Beata
One of the most applauded moments of the procession is when the demonis, the only ones on the island who go bare-faced, snatch the clay jugs which are carried by the “farmers” and then smash them against the ground as the Blessed passes by. One year, for example, the it was reported that around 1,500 jugs that had been acquired by the City Council were broken.
Religious Ceremonies & Other Activities
The celebration includes Masses and other religious services dedicated to Santa Catalina Thomàs. These ceremonies are deeply spiritual and are central to the observance of the festival, reflecting the community’s devotion to their patron saint.
Traditional music and dance are also integral to the festivities. Local folk music and dance groups perform throughout the fiesta, providing entertainment and maintaining the island’s cultural traditions. There is also a market or fair where local crafts and products are sold.
The fiesta features the traditional demonis who wake the town in the morning of the parade, there are also a plethora of revetllas (in Castellano verbenas), which are night time parties, usually with live music and DJs.
The festival is held every year with the procession held on the first Sunday of September. Much loved by Santa Margalidans, their passion for their fiesta makes this a truly special event.
