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Ibiza May 2017 preview: summer begins

Come to Ibiza in May for sun, beaches, island fiestas and opening parties.

Ibiza is already bursting into life with the season about to kick in. Spring is a vibrant time for the White Isle and May is a glorious sun-drenched month to visit. Beaches are less busy than the peak season. The crystal clear sea is warm enough for swimming. You can get a table at the beach restaurants and of course the opening parties are getting underway.

If you already have your May break booked you will want some inspiration on what to do when you arrive. Here is a selection of some of the best things to do this May 2017 to help you enjoy everything the island has to offer.


Going back in time at the Medieval Fair

Ibiza's Medieval Fair arrives in the old town, Dalt Vila, on Thursday 11 May. The opening ceremony takes place in Reina Sofia Park at 18.00 followed by the Medieval tournament.

All weekend the ancient winding streets will be lined with stalls selling a huge variety of goods from jewellery, leather goods, cheese, wine and much more.

There will also be street artists entertaining the hoards who meander through the streets. Take a seat at one of the traditional bars to watch acrobats, jugglers and musicians. There are concerts and art exhibitions and children love the donkey and camel rides.

It is a hugely popular annual festival with 50,000 visitors over the weekend. Come and make it more!


The world-famous opening parties

May is the month where the party season really gets going too. Many of Ibiza's legendary clubs will be holding their opening parties including the brand new super club, Hï Ibiza and a revamped Privilege among the bigger changes this year.

For more information, especially if you have never been, see our unmissable guide to opening weekend.


Barraguet Theatre Festival offers fun for all ages

Santa Eulalia plays host to the popular Barraguet Theatre Festival during May. This will be the fourth year of the event which draws more than 20 theatre companies to the town.

Performances include mime acts, clowns, puppet shows and street artists. Many of the productions don't rely on words so can be easily enjoyed by an international audience.

It is a lively, colourful party with four days of theatre events. Come along and enjoy fun for the whole family.


Shop, dance and feast at the Las Dalias opening festival

Early May will see the much-loved hippy market of Las Dalias celebrate its big summer launch. With dozens of stalls selling eclectic goods from around the globe it is great for retail therapy. There are also live music performances and DJs to delight your musical senses. Each year they also have a concert from acclaimed artists such as Manu Chao and Macaco to end the day. The exact date and artists for 2017 have yet to be announced, so watch out for news on that from us.

Food stalls and bars provide refreshments to tickle the tastebuds. There is also a fun area for the kids to hang out. It is a vibrant event which attracts visitors and locals from around the island.


Cinema Paradiso brings open air movies to the old town

Relax on your comfy daybed to experience cinema under the stars at Cinema Paradiso. Open-air movies are becoming something of an island phenomenon, with places like Amante and the Santos Dorado suites also offering the chance to see old school classics and new releases alike when summer arrives.

The old town of Ibiza, Dalt Vila is the atmospheric setting to see such films as cult favourites GoodFellas and The Big Lebowski. Family choices such as Forrest Gump and Back to the Future have also been aired.

Drinks and popcorn are included and the open air setting makes for an unforgettable cinema experience. See our cinema page for a full lowdown of all open-air movies.


International Music Summit celebrates its tenth anniversary

Taking place between 24 and 26 May, the International Music Summit is back for its tenth year.

This year's theme is Connecting Our Culture and takes place at the Hard Rock Hotel as well as other venues. Industry professionals gather for workshops, talks and networking to shape the future of electronic music.

The IMS Legends Dinner will honour those who have made a major contribution to the scene. Previous winners include Nile Rogers, Fat Boy Slim and Carl Cox. The event culminates in a massive party in the old town, Dalt Vila, on the 26th.

If dance music is your thing, this is one event not to miss and you can get tickets here.


Santa Eulalia blooms into life

The Santa Eulalia Flower Festival arrives in the town on 7 May. Horse-drawn carts parade through the streets swathed in gorgeous flowers. The locals dress up in traditional Ibizan costumes to welcome the procession.

The festival commemorates the legend of a sixteenth century chapel that fell into the sea. Nobody was hurt and it was believed to be a miracle. To pay homage Ibizans travelled by cart to the site, leading to the present-day annual celebration.

The town is awash with colour and there is also a classic car rally. The celebrations extend into the night with fireworks and music. As with all Ibizan fiestas there will be plenty of eating and drinking too.


Get active and move your body

As well as all the events taking place in May there are plenty of opportunities for a pre-party adrenaline rush. Ocean Mania is an inflatable water park in the bay of San Antonio. This bouncy obstacle course with its catapults, swings and trampolines will provide fun for kids of all ages.

Just next door is Surf Lounge, a beach club with a difference. The main attraction is the static surf machine where you can recreate a thrilling surfing experience just steps away from your Balinese sun bed.

Guided walks are a great way to meet new people whilst discovering more of the island. If you fancy exploring the beautiful coastline then do consider an amazing kayak tour. Book up for an exciting Jeep safari to experience Ibiza's stunning hidden countryside. Or if you are feeling really wild, there is supervised cliff diving. Head to our activity booking page to see many more.

May really is a wonderful time to visit the island. There are heaps of events and activities to keep you busy, massive excitement around the opening parties and long, sunny days. So if you haven't already done so, now is the time to book your fantastic May Ibiza holiday.

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