Markets
The island's iconic hippy markets are already up and running by May. However, this month sees the arrival of several smaller ones. Ibiza's original Hippy Market, located at Punta Arabí in the family resort of Es Caná, is proud to announce the opening of a new Sunset Market. Running from 18:00 to 23:00 each Friday throughout the season, it's sure to be a hit with souvenir hunters who appreciate being able to browse for that perfect gift in the cooler evening hours.
Another long-running island institution, the Cala Llonga Market, is held throughout the summer season each Thursday from 18:00 onwards. Situated on the family resort's pleasant promenade, this small market offers fashion items, accessories, jewellery, and souvenirs aplenty. Featuring live music most evenings, it's also popular with youngsters thanks to the beach playground and the tiny fun fair on the main road.
For high-class handcrafted goods check out the small artisan market in the picturesque village of Santa Gertrudis. Taking place each Friday from late May onwards, it showcases a superb range of handicrafts. From June on, there will also be live music by local musicians.
Culture
According to legend, a church collapsed hundreds of years ago in the town of Santa Eulalia but no one was injured and the local residents have taken the opportunity to celebrate this good fortune ever since. The first Sunday of May (also Mother's Day in Spain) commemorates the event and is celebrated with an agenda packed with activities: from traditional dances to parades of carts, horses, motorbikes and vintage cars, a dog show, a flower fair and lots of live music. Join them!
Combining the best in funk, soul, disco and house, Melon Bomb returns to iconic venue Pikes Ibiza on selected Fridays (starting 5 May) over the season for more of its distinctive high-class debauchery. Entrance is free, but remember to sign up for the guest list well in advance.
Step back in time and revel in the atmosphere of Ibiza Town's distant past with the Medieval Festival, which this year takes place on 11-14 May. With lots of market stalls, handicrafts, tasty traditional fare and beverages, and musical and juggling performances, this well-established event is a must-visit for all the family.
Starting on 15 May and continuing every Monday throughout the season, Musicana Ibiza returns for summer 2023 at its new home in Ibiza Rocks Bar. Head down for the best in live music, DJs, scrumptious grub and fantastic vibes, all set against a stunning beach backdrop.
Taking place from 19-21 May, Ibiza Swing Fun Festival is back with its signature blend of Swing and Lindy Hop, jam sessions, marching bands, special night parties and general revelry. Held in three locations, it features top local, national and international artists. An absolute must-see!
Children will be delighted to know that the wonderful Barruguet Children's Theatre festival is back for another year. From 26 to 28 May, the streets of Santa Eulalia will be filled with free performances by renowned clown and theatre companies, as well as indoor shows. The street performances are free, and most of them have no dialogue, so they are perfect for all audiences and ages.
Food
Fusion food fanatics will be licking their lips at the news that Bambuddha's hugely popular “Miso Hungry - All you can eat menu” is returning every Wednesday throughout May. For just €48 per head (resident discount applicable) you can relish a set menu showcasing this legendary restaurant's delicious fare. There is also a kid's menu for only €30. Pre-reservation is strongly advised.
Held every second Friday from May to late September, Burger Meets Gin is a fabulous event bringing together the best in burgers, top-notch cocktails and music sessions by local performers and DJs at the rooftop Sky Bar at swish Ocean Drive Ibiza Hotel, in Ibiza Town.
Late May also sees the advent of two standout events at beach club Bam Bu Ku in the resort of San Antonio. The first is Fam-Bu-Ku family brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 15:00 h with special meals for kids, fun activities and professional childcare. The second is the adults-only Ibiza Brunch Club, a brand new concept on the White Island uniting live music, DJs, and, above all, a mouth-watering brunch menu with lots of sharing dishes and inclusive drinks. This high-energy poolside brunch party takes place each Monday until late September.
Wellness
Would you like to learn some simple techniques to combat everyday stress and develop energy and focus? Then Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay have just the answer in the form of their Decompression Sessions. Organised in partnership with Self Space these pressure-free, relaxing sessions are the perfect way to start the season on the right note. Starting on 24 May, there are two sessions: 10:00 h and 18:30 h.
Make sure to book your spot for what promises to be a life-changing experience!
As part of its spring wellness programme, Nobu Ibiza is also organising a series of Holistic Hike Retreats from 14-17 May. Featuring breathtaking scenery, cutting-edge meditations and therapies and plenty of exclusive pampering afterwards, these amazing retreats are the last word in adventure and wellness.
Yoga
May's mild mornings are just made for yoga. Whatever your level, Ibiza is replete with classes run by expert teachers in gorgeous locations. To round off the experience, many classes also offer delicious healthy breakfasts to ensure you start your day at the top of your game!
Sports
In keeping with its growing reputation as a world-class sports destination, Ibiza is home to a number of outstanding outdoor sports events this month. Foremost among them is the Multisport Triathlon World Championship, which will see some of the planet's top triathletes descend on the island from 29 April through 7 May for 10 full days of the ultimate in sporting action. Come down with all the family to witness the spectacle as Ibiza plays host to this thrilling international event for the first time!
Meanwhile, 4-7 May are the dates for the Ibiza 4-Day Challenge with Walking Ibiza. Combining walking, mountain biking and kayaking, this unique challenge will test your fitness levels, get your adrenaline flowing and guarantee you have a great time into the bargain!
Ibiza's smaller sister, Formentera, is no slouch when it comes to world-class sporting pursuits. 13 May is the date for the 14th edition of the popular Formentera Half Marathon. Taking in the island's staggeringly scenic landscapes, the race - with two categories - is expected to be attended by over 2,000 competitors this year.
Running and hiking enthusiasts will be happy to know that Formentera is also the site of Formentera to Run, an idyllic vacation week lasting from 28 May to 4 June featuring a range of competitive and non-competitive athletic challenges against the island's striking natural backdrops.
Early registration is recommended.
Finally, and on a more sedate note, Ibiza Outdoors/Walking Ibiza are running Sunset Kayak Tours throughout the season starting on 14 May. Open to all comers, these professionally run tours are a fantastic way to explore the island in a uniquely fun manner.
With limited places available, pre-booking and payment is mandatory.
For more inspiration of what to do this month, head to our event calendar and have a browse.
