A battle of the baubles has broken out in the Balearics between rival Christmas markets on a holiday island loved by Brits. It’s reported stallholders at the traditional festive market in Majorca’s capital Palma have been angered by what they see as unfair competition from an event set to be held at the city’s Sa Feixina Park.
According to local media, the new Sa Feixina event, held at a park around a mile from the city centre, has been organised by a German businessman. It’s said his market, dubbed “Christmas in Palma” will be held on the same dates traditionally occupied by the older more established Christmas stalls in the city.
Both “Christmas in Palma” and the traditional markets held in Placa Major and La Rambla will start on November 21 and run until January 6. The Christmas lights in Majorca are switched on November 23 and also last until January 6.
According to the Majorca Daily Buliten, the German-run market will have 61 stalls and be inspired by German northern European traditions. There will also be a stage and ice rinks for skating and sledding.
The news site reports one stallholder at the rival older markets saying: “It’s unfair competition. Nobody is going to want to come and see us.”
It’s understood some stallholders are considering legal action because they fear severe financial losses.
In Majorca, which has welcomed an estimated two million British tourists so far this year, there are a variety of Christmas traditions unique to the island’s culture.
During the festive period, a traditional food often served with meals is the sopa de Nadel, or Christmas soup. The hearty broth is made from bread, vegetables and meat and typically is served alongside lamb and turkey dishes.
Across Spain, there is also a tradition of the Three Wise Men bringing gifts for children on January 5.
In Majorca, the three kings arrive by boat at the Moll Vell in the Port of Palma and throw sweets to scores of lucky children before taking part in a procession where presents are handed out to the crowd.