Off the south coast of Spain you will find Ibiza, one of the Balearic Islands and renowned for its clubs, attracting the 18 - 30 age group of clubbers and hedonists. However there is a lot more to this small but busy island than you realize, one aspect are the festivals that attract people from all walks of life, ages and nationalities. Elect to stay in a villa rather than hotels in Ibiza, and you will get the real feel of the place and a chance to meet its friendly people. Each village has its own patron saint the locals pay tribute to with an annual festival that's packed with a catalog of music and dancing. The Sant Antoni de Portmany, in Eivissa, has a special day in January as the whole town is packed for the big celebration. Head over to the Passeig de Ses Fonts if you want to join in the activities, or just watch the procession and events from the promenade and gardens. The locals dress up as Moors and Christians and there's a huge parade with country dancing to the rhythm of classic Ibizan instruments and street parties. The town itself is also worth exploring as it has a lot of character with its steep and narrow streets and bohemian atmosphere. During February and March street parties go on all over the island as the residents mark the arrival of Lent. Wherever you are staying you'll find fiestas, parades, and fancy dress balls at various locations. With April comes Holy Week and Semana Santa, one of the biggest celebrations in the country. On Good Friday, processions march through Ibiza Town to the cathedral from churches all over the island. Locals are masked or barefoot, whilst others carry on their shoulders the heavy wooden crosses adorned with figures of patron saints and religious entities. Hundreds of people turn out to watch, see the priest narrate the story of the crucifixion, and pray. Dia de Virgen de Carmen, in July, is a unique event held over 2 days involving all the Balearic Islands. The feast of the patron saint of sailors, it features colourful parades and El Carmen statues paraded on land and at sea as sailors believe their ships are protected by her presence. Eivissa Medieval is a moderately new festival held in May with dancing and live concerts to celebrate the declaration of Dalt Vila as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The walled city turns itself into a medieval market as actors, comedians and artists roam through the cobbled streets and portray characters from medieval times. Street entertainment, fire shows, dance and comedy provide the fun, whilst bystanders can try various home-grown food goods and find out about typical instruments and customs. Once a year in September Ibiza celebrates a 3 day long jazz festival which attracts internationally renowned jazz figures, musicians and performers from all around the world in the dramatic setting of Dalt Vila. On a slightly different note, The Ibiza Rock Festival is a music event that takes place every summer, hosting a succession of performances and concerts throughout the hot months. For lovers of live music then this is a great chance to see some major acts playing a selection of indie, electro and dance music whilst soaking up the party atmosphere, and getting yourself a tan! Ibiza is known for its music, so whether you have come for its clubs and bars, or its traditional music events and festivals, you can easily get a taste of both, and have yourself a fun-filled time mixing with fellow clubbers whilst getting to know the locals. Ibiza villas to rent can save you money and offer privacy and space. There are plenty of economical hotels in Ibiza, however if you are travelling with a group of friends or family it's worth looking into renting a villa and experiencing the island's charm. Most holiday villas have private pools and all the latest mod cons. Check online for villa holidays in Ibiza and book your family on a summer musical break.
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