Balearic Islands push for permanent daylight saving time – what it means for Mallorca

Why the Balearics are pushing for permanent daylight saving time

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When I photograph along the Passeig in the afternoon, it quickly becomes evident: in summer people want to sit outside longer. For many gastronomy professionals here on Mallorca this is not a minor issue but a piece of existence. The Balearic Parliament has understood the topic for years and has been advocating for permanent daylight saving time. It might sound dry at first — but it isn't.

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What happened yesterday

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On a national level, the prime minister said that the time change could soon be a thing of the past. Whether permanent winter time or summer time will be introduced, he left it open. Here on the island the preference is clear: daylight saving time. The Balearic Parliament has spoken in favor of it by a majority, among other arguments that the islands see the sun early, but also lose it early again.

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Concrete consequences for daily island life

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For the gastronomy sector this means: later darkness means more guests on the terraces, longer service times and often better day-to-day business. Many small bars in Palma, Port de Sóller or Cala d’Or tell the same: an early sunset in midsummer makes the evening business flow noticeably worse.

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Schools and commuters see it differently: part of the population fears dark winter mornings. Parents who take their children to school, and people who have to work early, would feel it. Here on the island people discuss it at market stalls, in cafés and over after-work beers.

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Tourism, politics and a bit of everyday poetry

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Tourism businesses see benefits: later sunsets often mean more relaxed guests, longer strolls on the beach and thus more sales at snack stalls and beach bars. But that's only part of it. Politicians and administrations must adjust schedules for transport, healthcare and schools — not witchcraft, but also not a walk in the park.

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How it could go forward

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The decision is not solely up to the Balearics. Madrid must find a nationwide path. Until then it stays at discussions, paperwork and preparations in the town halls. On Mallorca many restaurateurs and organizers are already mentally preparing for later evening programs — and secretly hope that guests stay longer.

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Personally I enjoy long summer evenings when the lights along the Passeig come on and the music drifts softly from the venues. Is that enough reason to overcome bureaucratic hurdles? The Balearics say: Yes. And here one will keep a close eye — with cappuccino in the morning and beer in the evening.