Formentera Entertainment

Formentera is a perfect place to visit if you are looking for some peace and quiet and to get away from the everyday stresses. The nightlife scene is very relaxed, with many quiet bars staying open late and providing excellent service. While there might not be much in the way of theatre, the island does provide many concerts and live music venues. There are also events and festivals held year-round celebrating the patron saints of each town.

Nightlife

Formentera is in complete contrast with neighbouring Ibiza. People generally travel to the island to avoid busy tourist hubs with a frenetic nightlife. There is, however, a very good selection of night time options; but they are all fairly low-key. Nights out are usually leisurely affairs in simple but beautiful bars and restaurants, with serving going on until the early hours. You will find the majority of bars and restaurants located in Port La Savina, Sant Francesc and El Pilar de la Mola. Visitors will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and unhurried pace of night-time entertainment on the island. Popular bars include Casa Paco and Big Sur in La Savina and Bar Centro and Casa Rafal in Sant Francesc.

Theatre and Music

Formentera is not renowned for its theatre or music. Folk dancing is very popular on the island and classes and dances are held throughout the year. You will always be able to catch a few performances in local bars and other venues. The fortified church in the capital often holds choir concerts, especially around Christmas time. Amateur orchestras perform concerts at venues throughout the island and traditional folk bands can be heard performing throughout the year.

Festivals

The island celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year. Many of them are based on religion and are very traditional. The island celebrates commemorative days for the patron saints of each town and if you are lucky enough to be on the island during one of these festivals, you will experience many old Formentera traditions. Folk dances are organised and the women show off their impressive headscarves, shawls and jewellery. These festivities cannot happen without music. The music is played on many local instruments including the flute, drums and castanets. The different towns celebrate their patron saint's day on the following dates: San Ferran on the 30th May; Pilar de la Mola on the 12th October and Sant Francesc on the 3rd December

• Sant Jaumme commemorates their patron saint in late July and celebrations include music and dancing. This is one of the most important festivals in the year.
• The festival celebrating Santa Maria takes place in early August and has only recently become very popular. It is a one-day event.
• Easter is a very important time of year for all locals on the island and festivities last an entire week, with religious ceremonies taking place all over the island as well as feasting and dancing, It is also a popular time to visit family and loved ones.