Blessing of the animals on Sant Antoni: rural tradition and a family plan in Andratx
January in Andratx is not only defined by bonfires and winter celebrations. One of the most cherished and deeply rooted traditions associated with Sant Antoni is the blessing of the animals, an event that connects present-day Mallorca with its rural and agricultural past. For visitors travelling to the island in winter, this tradition offers a close, authentic and family-friendly cultural experience.
Sant Antoni Abat and the bond with animals
The figure of Sant Antoni Abat has long been associated with the protection of animals. As their patron saint, his feast day has historically been linked to safeguarding livestock and domestic animals, which were essential to Mallorca's rural economy. Over time, this tradition has evolved, adapting to modern life while preserving its symbolic and cultural significance.
In Mallorca, the blessing of animals usually takes place around 17 January and brings together residents of all ages, many of whom attend with their pets. The ceremony is simple, participatory and deeply rooted in local customs. Further information about Sant Antoni and traditional winter festivities across the island can be found on the official Balearic Islands tourism website:https://www.illesbalears.travel/en
How the blessing is celebrated in Andratx
In Andratx, the blessing of the animals retains a distinctly local character. Dogs, cats and other pets form part of an informal procession through parts of the town, leading to the point where the blessing takes place. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming and clearly family-oriented, far removed from any staged or tourist-driven event.
This ceremony is usually included in the official Sant Antoni programme, alongside other community gatherings and traditional activities. Each year, the Ajuntament d'Andratx publishes the detailed schedule with confirmed dates, times and locations:https://www.andratx.es
For visitors, attending or simply observing the blessing is an opportunity to experience daily life in Andratx and to understand the importance that local traditions still hold within the community.
An ideal family plan for travelling in January
The blessing of the animals is particularly appealing for families travelling with children. It is an outdoor, free event with no strict timetable, allowing families to participate at their own pace. Children are naturally drawn to the presence of animals and can engage with a living tradition in a relaxed and meaningful way.
January is an especially good time for this type of experience. With fewer visitors, mild winter temperatures and a slower rhythm, the celebration feels more personal and accessible. Tradition becomes a shared moment rather than a spectacle, encouraging genuine interaction with local culture.
La Pergola as a base for discovering authentic winter Mallorca
Staying at La Pergola Aparthotel makes it easy to incorporate these cultural experiences into a winter stay. After attending the blessing of the animals, returning to a calm, spacious accommodation enhances the sense of balance between activity and rest.
The combination of local tradition, community life and comfort defines a different way of discovering Mallorca in winter. In January, Andratx reveals its most genuine side, where popular festivities continue to be part of everyday life. Experiencing Sant Antoni through this rural and family-focused tradition offers travellers a deeper connection with the island, using La Pergola as a comfortable and welcoming base.
