Mostra de la Llampuga: Cala Ratjada’s Celebration of the Sea
Fresh fish, local pride, and Mediterranean spirit
Each October, the fishing village of Cala Ratjada transforms into a lively seafront festival dedicated to one of Mallorca’s most iconic seasonal fish — the llampuga (also known as mahi-mahi or dorado).
The Mostra de la Llampuga celebrates the arrival of the llampuga season with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live music along the harbour promenade. Locals, chefs, and visitors come together to share the island’s maritime heritage — one grilled fillet, seafood skewer, or paella pan at a time.
🐟 What Is the Mostra de la Llampuga?
- When: Mid-October (2025 edition expected 10–12 October)
- Where: Cala Ratjada harbour, northeast Mallorca
- Admission: Free entry; food portions sold at stands (€3–8)
- Organiser: Ajuntament de Capdepera & local fishermen’s guild
- Official information
The event marks the end of the fishing season for the migratory llampuga — a tradition that’s been part of Mallorcan coastal life for generations. Today, it has evolved into a festival blending gastronomy, culture, and community while preserving the island’s fishing roots.
🍴 What to Expect
| Experience | Description | Highlights |
| Tasting stalls | Dozens of stands run by local restaurants and associations | Llampuga in every form: grilled, in empanadas, with onions, or marinated |
| Cooking demos | Local chefs and students showcase traditional recipes | Learn how to cook like a Mallorcan fisherman |
| Live music & dancing | Evening concerts and folk performances | Harbour turns into an open-air party |
| Family atmosphere | Activities for children, craft stalls & games | Great for all ages |
| Community & tradition | Fishermen, chefs, and locals celebrating together | Authentic island energy |
📍 Getting There from Palma
Cala Ratjada is about 80 km northeast of Palma, roughly 1 hour 20 minutes by car.
- By car: MA-15 motorway toward Manacor → Artà → Cala Ratjada.
- By bus: Lines 411 or 446 connect Palma and Cala Ratjada (approx. 2 hours).
- Parking: Limited near the port during the festival; arrive early or park outside the centre.
If you’re staying overnight, it’s an easy stroll from most Cala Ratjada hotels to the harbour.
🌊 Why the Llampuga Matters
The llampuga is a migratory fish caught between September and November as it passes through Balearic waters. Historically, it sustained Mallorcan coastal families through autumn and became a symbol of the island’s maritime identity.
Popular dishes include llampuga amb pebres (llampuga with peppers) and llampuga amb ceba (with onions) — simple, sun-drenched recipes that reflect the region’s rustic Mediterranean cuisine.
💡 Local Tips
- The harbour gets busy by noon — arrive early for the freshest tastings.
- Bring cash; many food stalls don’t accept cards.
- Try the llampuga empanadas — they sell out fast.
- Stay for the evening concerts when the whole harbour lights up.
- Combine the visit with a walk to Capdepera Lighthouse for sea views.
🏨 Where to Stay in Cala Ratjada
| Hotel | What to Expect | Best For |
| Hotel Bella Playa (4★) | Classic resort near Cala Agulla beach | Families & couples |
| Hotel Creu de Tau (5★) | Luxury adults-only hotel in Capdepera | Boutique experience |
| The Sky Bel (4★) | Rooftop pool, central location | Modern travellers |
More nearby: Stay in Capdepera for a quieter setting or Canyamel for a spa retreat after the festival.
📌 FAQs
Is the Mostra de la Llampuga suitable for families?
Yes — there’s live music, kids’ activities, and a friendly atmosphere throughout the weekend.
Do I need tickets?
No — entry is free. You pay per dish or drink at the stalls.
What’s the best time to visit?
Saturday evening for the music, or Sunday midday for relaxed tastings before the closing ceremony.
🕰️ History & Did You Know?
The Mostra de la Llampuga began in 1999, created by Cala Ratjada’s local fishing cooperative to promote sustainable fishing and local cuisine.
What started as a small community event has become one of Mallorca’s most beloved autumn festivals, attracting over 10,000 visitors each year.
Did you know? The word “llampuga” means “lightning fish” in Catalan — a nod to the shimmering silver-blue flashes they make when swimming near the surface.
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