Off to Menorca for the Jaleo in Sant Climent
The second Jaleo in Sant Climent was brought forward to August 2026 due to the intense heat. The festival day began earlier than planned so as not to expose the horses and participants to the high temperatures for too long.
The Jaleo is the traditional and emotional centrepiece of the patron saint festivals on the Balearic island of Menorca.
In this centuries-old ritual, which takes place in various villages during the summer from June to September, festively dressed riders – known as Caixers and Cavallers – ride spirited Menorcan horses straight into a dense crowd gathered in the market square. Driven by the rhythmic sounds of a live brass band, the riders make their horses rear up on their hind legs, in a manoeuvre known as ‘bots’. The audience’s task is to touch the horse’s chest with their hands and keep it standing on two legs for as long as possible. This is seen as a sign of courage, skill and absolute trust between man, animal and community.
The Jaleo de Sant Climent takes place every year on the third weekend in August in the small village of Sant Climent on the Balearic island of Menorca. DeluxeMallorca will take you there: simply send enquiries to info@deluxemallorca.com now.
History and distinctive features of Balearic horsemanship
In the Balearic Islands, particularly on the neighbouring island of Menorca, dressage is a deeply rooted part of the culture and a vibrant part of the island’s identity. The tradition of horse riding dates back to the 14th century, when a coastal defence system was established under King Jaume II. The riders patrolled the famous Camí de Cavalls, the ‘horse path’, which circles the island. From this military tradition, a distinct and proud breed of horse developed: the Cavall Menorquí, the Menorcan horse. These jet-black stallions are characterised by their strength, elegance and an exceptionally courageous and calm nature.
The most distinctive feature is the Doma Menorquina, or Menorcan dressage. It differs from classical dressage in that it involves very specific movements. Traditionally, the reins are held only in the left hand. The showpiece discipline is the ‘Bot’: the horse rears up on its hind legs and strides several metres through the applauding crowd.
🎪 The traditional fiestas
-
Sant Joan in Ciutadella, Menorca: The island’s largest, oldest and most spectacular festival takes place every year on 23 and 24 June. It is of international tourist interest.
-
Sant Martí in Es Mercadal: mid-July, on 20 and 21 July. Slightly smaller than Ciutadella, but lively.
-
A summer of festivals until September: every village in Menorca holds its own horse festival in chronological order. The Fiestas Menorca calendar provides a complete overview.
Anyone wishing to experience these unique fiestas can book a trip to the islands via info@deluxemallorca.com.