Festes des Vermar: Celebrating the Harvest in Binissalem

Mallorca, an island known for its Mediterranean landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich history, is also home to some of the most deeply rooted festivities in the region’s agricultural and winemaking culture. Among them, the Festes des Vermar in Binissalem holds a central place, proudly celebrating the grape harvest and local wines. Each September, the small town transforms into the epicenter of culture, wine, and fun, drawing thousands of visitors.

A Bond with Tradition and the Land

The grape harvest celebrations in Mallorca, known as Sa Vermada, date back centuries when farming families would celebrate the end of the grape harvest, a crucial stage in the agricultural cycle. Binissalem, a renowned winemaking region, has kept this tradition alive with its emblematic Festes des Vermar, which in 2024 marks its 58th edition. The mayor of Binissalem, during the opening of this year’s editiono, emphasized the spirit of the celebration with the motto: “Open to culture, heritage, and enology.” These words capture the essence of the festivities, where culture, tradition, and wine intertwine to offer an authentic experience for both locals and visitors.

The Festival in 2024: Culture, Tradition, and Brotherhood

The mayor highlighted that the festival is not just a social event but a true reflection of Binissalem’s character: “I am convinced that we are one of the best towns in Mallorca. We have persevered in living and revitalizing the Festes des Vermar… Binissalem wines are highly prestigious in Mallorca and beyond.” He also stressed the importance of community participation, reminding everyone that the celebration is made possible thanks to the joint effort of the town’s men and women: “The festival gives us the spirit of brotherhood… tradition, culture, and fun come alive.” This sense of unity is a cornerstone of the ongoing success of the festivities and the growing reputation of the local wines.

Key Moments of the Festes des Vermar

Throughout the week, Festes des Vermar offers a wide range of activities, some of which have become iconic parts of the celebration:

Grape Battle: This symbolic activity marks the end of the harvest. It is a fun-filled event where participants throw grapes at each other, with the energy and enthusiasm that only this festival can inspire.
Carriage Parade: The colorful carriages that parade through the streets of Binissalem are full of creativity and tradition, reminding everyone of the most representative elements of the grape harvest and the town’s agricultural past.
Wine Tastings and Local Gastronomy: As an essential part of the celebration, the wines of the Binissalem denomination of origin take center stage, accompanied by traditional dishes of Mallorcan cuisine.
Correfoc and Musical Performances: As night falls, the festivities continue with live music, fireworks, and the traditional correfoc, lighting up the streets of Binissalem with the energy and magic of fire.

Check the full program. National Geographic highlighted that this year’s program “hosts a large number of events that offer a unique opportunity to experience local life and, above all, the prestigious wine culture. Traditional dances, folk music, theater performances, storytelling, heritage tours, wine tastings, and grape harvest activities are just a few of the many cultural offerings of this town.”

Binissalem: A Festival for Everyone

The mayor also pointed out that the Festes des Vermar is a meeting place for both residents and visitors: “You all enhance the personality, pride, and wisdom of Binissalem. May everyone feel moved and enjoy the fragrance of the wines, the scent of the harvest, and the grapes.”