Dijous Bo in Inca: Market, Music and the Return of the Boats

Dijous Bo in Inca: A whole town on the move

When Inca opens its eyes on this November morning, it is not a gentle awakening but a joyful one: roosters crowing somewhere in the old town, street vendors energetically advertising their goods, and again and again the clack of heels on cobblestones. Dijous Bo is not an ordinary market — it is a family gathering, a runway of craftsmanship and a day when the town becomes a promenade for several kilometres. More than 300 stalls line up from the Gran Via Colom into the winding alleys of the old town.

The boats are back — a lovely contrast

One of this year's surprises: dinghies, inflatable boats and small sports boats are once again moored along the Gran Via Colom between leather goods and potter's wheels. After roughly eight years of absence, nautical displays have been brought back into the heart of the market. Anyone who suddenly peers over a bow between traditional jackets and glassware experiences a charming contrast: sobrasada meets spinnaker, olive oil meets oar blade. It is precisely these small ruptures in the scene that make Dijous Bo so special.

What you shouldn't miss

The usual remains: tractors and agricultural machinery show the island's rural side, billy goats and rabbits stroll by as crowd-pullers, and shelves full of regional delicacies invite you to taste. Almond pastries, freshly baked bread and roasted almonds mingle with the spicy aromas of sobrasada and aged Mallorcan cheese. The bars serve vermouth, families sip from their glasses and children cling to cotton candy. Highlights, as always, include the parade of the Gigantes and the traditional fire run — great motifs for photos and memories.

Why this is good for Mallorca

Dijous Bo is more than a feast for the eyes and the palate: it strengthens local economic cycles. Craftspeople sell directly to visitors, farmers network with restaurateurs, and the return of the boats shows how the island's traditions can be interwoven in different ways. Such encounters promote sustainable tourism: visitors stay longer, buy locally and take real stories home. For Inca, it is a signal that traditions can be lived and rethought at the same time — a mix that helps maintain Mallorca's appeal.

Practical tips for visitors

My tip: Come early — the best spots and the most interesting conversations happen before the big rush. Parking on the outskirts fills up quickly; those who arrive by bus or on foot will be more relaxed. Plan three to four hours if you want to stroll without hurry. Mid-November temperatures of 15–20 °C are possible; mornings can be chilly — a light jacket is advisable. Comfortable shoes are essential: cobblestones and crowds demand sure footing.

For families and explorers

There are carousels and small attractions for children; parents appreciate direct conversations with producers and the chance to ask about the origin of food. Shoemakers, potters and other craftspeople show their work — a reminder that Inca is not just a market but a town with a living craft tradition. If you want to see the boat exhibition, start at the Gran Via Colom where the models are arranged compactly.

In summary: Come with an empty stomach, some patience and a camera. Engage in conversations, taste a vermouth and watch the bustle — often it is the small moments at the edge of a stall that stay longest in your memory. And if a tractor passes by: just smile and take in the island's rhythm.

Note: programs and times may change — a quick look at the notices in Inca or the city's announcements is advisable before your visit.