September arrives with a special atmosphere at Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo, the oldest ice cream and chocolate shop in Palma. After years of sweetening local afternoons, our establishment becomes the essential refuge for everyone taking part in Canamunt i Canavall, the city’s most emblematic celebration. This festival, which has pitted residents of La Calatrava (Canamunt) against those of La Lonja (Canavall) since the 17th century, has evolved from a dispute over the privilege of carrying the image of Sant Pere into a day of folk games, water battles, and reconciliation—and we’re proud to support Palma with our traditional flavors.
The history of Canamunt i Canavall: from disputes to revelry
The origins of Canamunt i Canavall date back to 1654, when both guilds claimed the alternating honor of bearing Saint Peter’s image in procession. Over time, that rivalry turned into a festival, and today thousands of people take part in Palma’s most iconic games, donning red or blue shirts as they compete in an atmosphere of fun that still honors the tradition’s noble beginnings.
Canamunt i Canavall today: a celebration of community
Every first Sunday of September, you can join in the many events:
- Sack races in Plaça de la Drassana.
- Tug of war in Plaça de la Lonja.
- Water battles along the Parc de la Mar.
- Cant d’estil singing and colla dances, blending the island’s traditional music and dance.
It’s a festival where Palma’s traditions are lived with intensity, and the highlight is the symbolic crossing between Canamunt and Canavall: a gesture of friendship that can only be celebrated with good company and, above all, the best Mallorcan flavors.
The role of Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo: a sweet truce after the competition
Our premises on Carrer Can Sanç, 10, on Carrer del Baró de Santa Maria del Sepulcre, 5, and on Carrer del Sindicat, 7 are open to offer a space of fellowship and peace where you can recharge and share good moments.
- Traditional ensaimadas and artisanal cuartos: masses fermented with care, golden and fluffy, perfect for restoring your energy.
- Almond ice cream and almond horchata: the summer drink of Palma that no one can resist—especially after a heated round of games.
- Rabiols with cottage cheese, chocolate, pastry cream, apricot jam and crespells: historic sweets that extend the truce with a touch of nostalgia.
At Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo, over 300 years of history ensure that every bite and every sip carry collective memory. Under the hydraulic tiles and beside the century-old oak chairs, residents of Canamunt and Canavall find a place where rivalry dissolves and the authentic Mallorcan flavor unites hearts.
Visit Ca’n Joan de S’Aigo this Canamunt i Canavall and discover why we are the preferred destination to seal Palma’s sweetest truce. We await you with trays full of our classics, so you can enjoy the city’s most delicious reconciliation.
