Two Autumn Moods: Porreres and Inca on the Last October Weekend

Two Autumn Moods: Porreres and Inca on the Last October Weekend

At the end of October, when the sun still gives warmth but the wind already hints at the coming winter, Mallorca's village squares turn into small stages of everyday life. In one weekend Porreres and Inca show two very different but equally lovable sides of the island: the calm, craft-oriented bustle of a traditional sa Fira and the more urban, sporty and gastronomic programme of a busier town.

Porreres: wood, wool and the scent of chestnuts

Early in the morning in Porreres: bells mix with the rustle of paper bags, and the scent of fresh ensaimadas and roasted chestnuts rises from the bakeries. The Sa Fira feels like it's stuck in time — it's about things you touch with your hands: baskets, pottery, knitted blankets. You can still feel the maker's fingerprint, not the logo of an online shop.

Between the stalls, chrome fenders gleam in a small vintage car corner. The seats creak as if they were telling family stories of outings and market visits. Families with children spread life across the square: little ones stand by the sheep and rabbits, gently stroking a coat and listening to the soft bleating. Food stalls offer clear, traditional flavours: aged cheese, hearty stews and, of course, the obligatory ensaimada as a sweet point of calm.

My tip for market fans: those who arrive around 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. have the best selection. Later the alleys fill up, and what was there in the morning may be sold out by the afternoon. A foldable bag and sturdy shoes are worth their weight — the paving isn't always even, and you want your pottery to make it home in one piece.

Inca: active, loud and surprisingly international

Inca splits the weekend into many small events: sports events, small concerts, culinary offerings and street art. In the squares you see boccia players next to skateboarders; the voices of the spectators weave between the songs of the live bands. It's a town to enjoy with open ears and a glass of cava in your hand — the music is never perfectly rehearsed, but it's genuine and close.

Particularly noteworthy is the gastro fair: food trucks, young chefs and local producers bring dishes that surprise. In a town you might otherwise associate with tapas and local cuisine, a small oyster bar raises eyebrows and curious smiles. A bit of funfair atmosphere mixes with the enjoyment — anyone wandering here should wear solid shoes and bring tissues: dust and olive oil stains are possible.

Practical planning: arrival, parking and weather

If you want to visit both places in one weekend, pick your timing wisely: Porreres is especially relaxed on Sundays, while Inca spreads events across the whole weekend. Parking is easier in the mornings; after 1 p.m. both places get busier. A short autumn rain shower is always possible — pack a thin, windproof jacket. Cash is still often requested in villages, so keep a few euros handy.

A small etiquette tip: a friendly "Bon dia" opens doors. Vendors and neighbours appreciate a greeting; it makes conversations easier and the market more personal. And when you buy local products you directly help keep these places alive.

Why weekends like these matter

These autumn fairs are not a big spectacle — they are a kind of everyday upkeep. Producers, craftsmen and families meet outdoors, exchange news and show how island culture works: personal, down-to-earth and a little loud. As a visitor you discover corners of Mallorca away from the hotel promenades; as a local, afternoons on the square become small celebrations of the familiar that make grey November more bearable.

I'll be standing in Porreres on Sunday — at the pottery stall. If you want a recommendation or a short break, drop by. I'll bring shade, experience and maybe a second bag for your purchases.