July in Formentera: the island in full swing
There’s no question that Formentera’s peak month is July. The small island of the Pitiusas Islands shows off its most lively and inviting side, the sea reaches its perfect temperature and the calendar is filled with local festivities, open-air concerts and activities for all ages. If you’re looking for a good time to go, there are plenty of reasons to mark July on your calendar.
The Best of the Ocean
In July the waters of Formentera reach a temperature between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius, turning beaches such as Ses Illetes, Cala Saona and Migjorn into true Mediterranean paradises. The water has that characteristic turquoise color that distinguishes it from the rest of the Mediterranean, because the Posidonia seagrass is in full bloom. It’s great for kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding or just chilling with the gentle waves.
La Savina starts summer with Our Lady of Mount Carmel Festival
The port of La Savina on July 16 celebrates Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the patron saint of sailors, which signifies the official start of the summer festivities in Formentera. The high season is heralded by maritime processions, live music, activities for children and a truly local festive atmosphere. A few days later, on July 19, Es Pujols takes over with its own celebrations, fireworks over the sea, more processions, water sports and concerts.
Saint James The Great Festival Formentera
The biggest event of the month is undoubtedly Formentera Day on July 25th, the feast day of Saint James, the island’s patron saint. The capital, Sant Francesc Xavier, has a full programme for the second half of the month including concerts by well-known and up-and-coming artists, exhibitions, seminars, theatre, dance, outdoor film and performances of traditional folk dance (ball pagès). Today, the Plaça de la Constitució is the island’s beating heart.
Music in the Squares: free concerts every night
One of the events that mark July is the series of free open-air concerts organized by the Formentera Council. The program is held every day of the week all over the island: Mondays at the La Savina waterfront; Thursdays at Es Pujols’ Plaça Europa with World Music; Fridays at Sant Ferran’s Plaça de l’Església with live music and jam sessions; and Saturdays at Sant Francesc’s Plaça de la Constitució with the renowned Jazz en la Plaza. Nothing beats the combination of free entrance, Mediterranean atmosphere and nice evenings.
Astronomy under the stars: Formentera looks to the sky
Formentera is one of the best places in Spain to stargaze and has been awarded official Starlight Destination status. The Formentera Looks to the Sky initiative continues strong in July, with specialists using telescopes to guide astronomical studies in unusual places like the old mill of La Mola. A unique experience, perfect for families or for those who like to discover the island outside the beaches.
Es Pujols Urban Mile: sport and activity
One of the most popular athletic events on the island in the middle of July is the Es Pujols Urban Mile and 5K. The race, which develops on a circuit through the main tourist area of Formentera, gathers participants of all ages in a joyful and energetic environment. It’s a day of fun, athletics and community pride, starting with the littlest runners and ending with the grown-ups.
Hippie Market La Mola
In the summer, La Mola Artisan Market is one of the most unique gathering places on the island, open Wednesdays and Sundays. Local and foreign artisans display jewelry, textiles, unique objects and artwork on the promontory overlooking the Mediterranean. The market is alive with live music on Wednesdays and peaks in July. A must see for a real Formentera memento.
Why July and not August?
Many tourists can’t choose between July and August. The best month to visit the island is July: the sea is warm, the cultural calendar is in full swing with the Sant Jaume celebrations and the crowds are a little lighter (especially in the first half of the month). The overall experience is more seamless, restaurants are easier to get a table and the beaches are still breathtaking.
Book your villa in Formentera for July
We still have availability in villas for July: if you are dreaming of spending this extraordinary month on the island, now is the time to act. Contact us to find the perfect property for your stay and make the most of everything Formentera has to offer this summer.
