La Fiesta Medieval

Every year, Eivissa puts on La Fiesta Medieval, or medieval festival, in the old town center. The anticipation built up long before this event, which celebrates the world heritage status of Dalt Vila by converting it into an ancient Medieval town. The celebrations lasted for four days, day and night, involving a huge effort. Dalt Vila was the perfect location for the fair as the old city’s charm meant you immediately felt you’d stepped back in to the Middle Ages.

The fiesta was hugely popular, Dalt Vila’s narrow streets heaving with people throughout. The majority were locals, appreciating the beauty of their old town which most do not regularly visit. Wandering around, I naturally saw people I knew, including students and teachers from school. Attendance was high as it seemed to be the last local event before everyone began working for the summer season.

The atmosphere was alive; you could sense the enthusiasm with the impressive Medieval costumes, shows, music and crafts. There was a huge contribution from the local people, who not only helped to organise the fair but got involved throughout, manning stalls with traditional Ibicenco merchandise. There were also the expected spiritual and hippy elements, such a palm reading and fantasy artefacts, which suited the Medieval style and stayed true to the vibe of the island. A vibrant mix of colours and smells filled Dalt Vila. 

As well as many local people participating, the entertainment was from all over Europe as bands had come especially for the fair. We watched one fantastic folk band who had flown in from Portugal. With a such an impressive outcome, the festival clearly involved immense organisation .

A fundamental aspect of the fair was the food. Every other stall sold deliciously fresh and authentic grub, including pulled pork sandwiches and homemade giant doughnuts. Everything was made in vast amounts but of amazing quality, especially the meat; which was cooked by the ton on rotating barbecues. I couldn’t understand where they had got it all from! However, I wouldn’t expect anything less from the Spanish.

We bought  traditional Ibicenco pastries baked by nuns who sold them outside their monastery. Most of the food was overpriced but it was all worth it with the preparation put in and the atmosphere where you got to eat.

There was nothing false or overdone about this fiesta, it was a genuine celebration enjoyed annually by the people of the island. However, despite it being well attended, I was surprised to hear that many were unexcited about the fair.  People complained it was far too crowded and agobiante, supposedly as it’s put on so often that the festival loses its novelty for locals over the years.

I visited La Fiesta Medieval twice, and after recommendations, started the route at the top of Dalt Vila. Here, you could enjoy magnificent views of the sun setting over the city and make your way down the cobbled streets, soaking up the atmosphere.

The highlight of the fair was watching a group of geese trained to follow their owner. The flock waddled around the town behind a man with a stick and a bell who talked to them while they walked. This added a wonderfully authentic element to the festival. They had thought of everything!

NB: If you’re planning a trip to Ibiza, come earlier rather than later! May is a wonderful month to enjoy the uncrowded beaches and visit this unforgettable Medieval fiesta.