Planning a family holiday to Ibiza in May? Then do not miss the Barruguet Festival, a vibrant, three-day celebration of theatre, music, dance and circus designed for children of all ages. From 23 to 25 May 2025, Santa Eulària transforms into a magical stage bursting with joy, creativity and unforgettable performances.
If you are looking for things to do in Ibiza with children, the Barruguet Festival of Family Theatre is one of the island’s most unmissable cultural events. With 22 shows by 17 companies from across Spain, the festival combines entertainment with education, inclusion and community spirit, all in the charming town of Santa Eulària des Riu, a favourite destination for families visiting Ibiza.
What is the Barruguet Festival?
Now in its eleventh edition, the Barruguet Festival is a performing arts event created especially for children and families. Named after a mischievous character from Ibizan folklore, the festival brings together theatre, music, circus acts and creative installations designed to spark the imagination of little ones and their grown-ups too.
From the town’s theatre venues to its outdoor squares, the whole municipality gets involved. With shows tailored to different age groups (from toddlers to teens), there is truly something for everyone.
A full weekend of family-friendly shows
The 2025 edition runs from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 May and features companies from the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, La Rioja and the Valencian Community.
Performances for every age group
Whether your child is one or eleven, the festival has something age-appropriate and engaging:
- Ages 1–3: soft, sensory experiences to delight the very young.
- Ages 2–5: interactive performances full of movement and music.
- Ages 3+: inventive storytelling, dance and character-based shows.
- Ages 6+: more complex plots, physical theatre and circus spectacles.
Programme highlights
- Opening night: La llàntia meravellosa by Festuc Teatre kicks off the festivities on 23 May at 20:30 at the Palau de Congressos.
- Family Music Show: the Santa Eulària Municipal Band will perform Música i animació on 25 May, offering a lively musical show for all ages.
- Closing event: Quan torni la primavera by Circ Pistolet wraps up the festival in style on 25 May at 19:30, also at the Palau de Congressos.
You can check the full programme and buy advance tickets at www.festivalbarruguet.com.
Bringing magic to care homes and shelters
In 2025, the festival continues its mission of outreach with performances in local elderly care homes (Can Blai and Residència Colisée) and free invitations for children in shelters. The chosen show, Sense destí by Clownómadas, has been specially adapted for these audiences.
Activities for professionals in the performing arts
Alongside the public shows, Barruguet also hosts two days of professional activities:
- 22 May: orkshop on arts project promotion by María Ángeles Marchirant.
- 23 May: roundtable discussion with representatives from creative centres, theatre fairs and festivals.
These sessions offer opportunities for learning, networking and sharing best practices within the family-focused performing arts sector.
Win a family trip to Mallorca
As part of the fun, families attending the festival have a chance to win a trip for four to the Children’s and Youth Theatre Fair in Vilafranca, Mallorca, in October 2025. The prize draw will be held during the final performance on 25 May. Just purchasing tickets gives you the chance to enter and also provides free parking in Santa Eulària.
Where to go and what to expect
Santa Eulària is located on Ibiza’s east coast and is one of the island’s most peaceful and family-friendly destinations. During the Barruguet Festival, its parks, theatres, promenades and streets are transformed into open-air performance spaces, with shows often taking place under the sun or stars.
Key venues
- Palau de Congressos – Main indoor venue for large performances.
- Teatro España – A historic theatre perfect for intimate shows.
- Outdoor installations – Held in public squares and pedestrian areas, offering free access and lots of space for children to move and play.
How to get there
- By car: Santa Eulària is just a 20-minute drive from Ibiza Town or 25 minutes from the airport. Free parking is available for ticket holders.
- By public transport: buses connect Santa Eulària with other major towns on the island. Schedules are available on the Consell d’Eivissa website.
Why families love it
If you are searching for authentic cultural experiences in Ibiza that go beyond the beach, Barruguet Festival is the perfect plan. It is fun, accessible and a great way to introduce your children to the magic of live performance.
Here is why families love it:
- Performances for all ages
- Affordable ticket prices
- Free outdoor installations
- Educational and inclusive shows
- Friendly, walkable town
- Fun extras like the prize draw and music concert
Tips for visiting with children
- Book in advance: some performances sell out quickly. Use the online ticket portal to secure your seats early.
- Check age recommendations: make sure the show is suitable for your child’s age for maximum enjoyment.
- Arrive early: especially for outdoor shows, arriving ahead of time means better spots and a more relaxed experience.
- Bring snacks and water: while Santa Eulària has many family-friendly restaurants, keeping refreshments handy is always a good idea.
Plan your visit today
The Barruguet Festival of Family Theatre is a true celebration of culture, inclusion and creativity. Whether you are a local family or visiting Ibiza during May half term, this unique event is one of the best things to do with kids in Ibiza.
- Explore the full programme and buy tickets at: www.festivalbarruguet.com
- Add the dates to your calendar: 23–25 May 2025
- Book your trip to Santa Eulària and enjoy an unforgettable family experience in Ibiza!
