SANT JOAN PELÓS

Every year on the 24th of June, his saint's day, you can see Sant Joan Pelós dancing in the streets of Felanitx to the characteristic sound of a piccolo and other string instruments. He always accompanies a young man, who represents St. John the Baptist, wearing a white shirt, white stockings and shoes, a red skirt and cloak, a wig, a crown and a mask. In his right hand he holds a crucifix with the inscription that characterises the Baptist.

We found the same representation as early as 1511 in masses in La Seu, the cathedral of Palma. That character is dressed in a fur cloak, hence the adjective "pelós" (furry).

Thereafter, in the 17th century, he performed his dance in processions and other parades in the capital of Mallorca.

There was a mention of him in Felanitx in 1757, but we could not find any documentation or clear information until a hundred years later.

In 2016 the Island Council (Consell de Mallorca) awarded him as a Festival of Cultural Interest.