For a comprehensive list of Fiestas on Ibiza during the year, please see Calendar of Fiesta Days
September 8th sees the turn of the small town of Jesus to celebrate its Patron Saint's Day.
Situated just a few kilometres outside Ibiza Town, Jesus is a peaceful, yet bustling mainly residential area whose crowning glory is its stunning church, Nuestra Senora de Jesus. One of the oldest churches on Ibiza, dating back to the fifteenth century, it is home to a very valuable sixteenth century Gothic piece of altar art "The Virgin and Child" which is considered by many experts to be the most beautiful face of Mary in Spanish Medieval iconography.
Needless to say, most of the celebrations for the Patron Saint's Day of Jesus take place in the square in front of the church and festivities, as always, stretch out for about one week.
This year's program of events include a chess tournament, wine making demonstrations, clay pigeon shooting, organised walks and mountain bike trials. There is face painting for the children, and even a foam and water party on 5th September from 17.00 hrs.
The Patron Saint's Day itself on 8th September starts with Mass of greeting at 09.00 hrs, followed by a parade then Holy Mass at 11.00 hrs. There will be traditional Ibiza dancing in the square and a parade of horse-drawn carts and carriages through Jesus. Of course, no fiesta would be complete without the usual drinking and feasting, and the Lost Mountain Orchestra will be entertaining the crowds in the evening until a spectacular firework display at midnight.
So, if you are on Ibiza, make sure you pop along to Jesus and join in the celebrations of their very special Patron Saint's Day...you will be made most welcome!
