Mallorca - Majorca - Local news 16 AUGUST 2003
FIESTA OF THE DUCKS
Mallorca celebrates many fiestas during the hot month of august, when long hot nights make sleeping difficult, it is an ideal time to hold theses events, but not all fiestas are held at night, Friday 15 August saw the fiesta of - the release of the ducks - in Can Picafort as part of the celebrations of - Mare de Deu d Agost -
In spite of the high temperatures and the rumours of denunciations, fines and sanctions this illegal fiesta attracted around 3000 people, year after year, the Conselleria d Agricultura i Pesca of the Government warns the town hall of Santa Margalida that it is prohibited to celebrate this fiesta, but the town hall goes ahead prepared to pay any fines, last year cost the municipal treasury 3.000 euros.
Shortly after noon, five boats holding 350 ducks dropped anchor in front of the hotel Sol y Mar and released the ducks, the idea then is that swimmers take to the sea and try to capture the ducks as trophies.
The ducks are not harmed in this event, most are captured and then released at the Torrent de Son Baulo, some escape and fly away to freedom - and some - have been known to occasionally finish up in a casserole
The origin of this event is unknown but it apparently began as a game more than 80 years ago. Many elderly spectators remember taking part many years ago when they were small.
Ask about any local fiestas in the area you are in, you will always be welcome to these events, there are so many fiestas held on Mallorca during summer, there will probably be one near you, go have a look and join in the Mallorcan traditions.
