Ibiza is renowned worldwide for its legendary closing parties, the final celebration that marks the end of the summer season in the island’s clubs. This year, however, many visitors have been left wondering whether these much-anticipated events will still take place after the severe flooding caused by storm ‘Ex Gabrielle’. The heavy rainfall brought chaos to parts of the island, affecting hotels, restaurants and several nightclubs. So, are the closing parties going ahead? Here is everything you need to know.
How the storm affected Ibiza
The storm known as ‘Ex Gabrielle’ brought heavy rain and flooding that hit parts of Ibiza hard. Hotels in Playa d’en Bossa and along the Joan Carles I promenade were among the worst affected, with emergency teams working around the clock to restore services. Some hotels decided to end their season immediately, closing until next year while they repair damage.
Clubs, on the other hand, suffered less than hotels but were not completely spared. Flooding, leaks, power cuts and travel problems for staff created serious disruptions. According to José Luis Benítez, manager of the Ocio de Ibiza association, which represents the island’s main nightclubs, some venues were forced to close for a night, others opened but with very few clients, and employees were allowed to stay at home if it was unsafe to travel.
Which clubs were affected
The storm left visible marks on several of Ibiza’s best-known venues.
- DC10: a video shared on social media showed the club’s ground-floor bathrooms completely flooded. With no upper floors, this meant significant disruption for the venue.
- Pacha: the famous club with the cherry logo was also affected. The rain caused flooding along avenue 8 d’Agost, where the club is located. As a result, its terrace, restaurant and some interior rooms could not open. Several employees were unable to travel safely, with some cars left unusable and motorcycles unable to circulate. The club organised a large van to help transport staff.
- UNVRS: guests reported that the music stopped for 15 minutes due to technical issues caused by the rain. A large leak appeared inside the club, and, as in other venues, the number of clients was very low.
- Ibiza Gran Hotel: although not a nightclub, its closure is significant for the area. The flooding damaged electrical systems and essential installations, forcing the hotel to close until next year. This also meant the closure of its renowned restaurant La Gaia and the Casino. Guests were relocated to other hotels across the island.
Safety before the party
The most important message from club managers has been clear: safety comes before the party. Although Ibiza is famous for never-ending music and dancing, during the storm priority was given to people’s well-being. Some clubs did not open at all, others reduced services, and staff were told not to risk travelling in dangerous conditions.
Benítez confirmed that while material damage has been significant, there have been no personal injuries in the sector. “In the discotheques everything continues as planned, the water is being removed and, despite the damage, there are no personal injuries to regret”, he explained.
This attitude shows the balance Ibiza’s nightlife has struck: the closing parties are important, but ensuring the safety of workers and clients comes first.
Are the closing parties still going ahead?
The short answer is yes. Despite the flooding and technical problems, clubs have no plans to end the season earlier than expected. Unlike some hotels, which have decided to close until next year, nightclubs intend to carry on with their programmes once they complete the necessary repairs.
Visitors should expect that in some venues certain areas might remain closed while damage is being assessed, but the events themselves will still go ahead. In practice, this means the closing parties will continue, even if behind the scenes clubs are still dealing with repairs and cleaning.
What visitors need to know
For those planning to attend the closing parties:
- Check directly with the club: while programmes remain in place, some spaces such as terraces or restaurants may be temporarily unavailable.
- Expect adjustments: some venues may need to restrict access or adapt their services while repairs are completed.
- Safety is prioritised: clubs have already shown that staff and guest well-being is more important than keeping the music playing at all costs.
The storm ‘Ex Gabrielle’ caused serious disruption in Ibiza, flooding hotels, restaurants and several nightclubs. Videos of DC-10 under water and reports of leaks at UNVRS made headlines, while Pacha had to close parts of its premises and the Ibiza Gran Hotel shut down until next year.
However, Ibiza’s nightlife has confirmed that the show goes on. Clubs are working hard to clear water, repair damage and continue their season as planned. Closing parties, the highlight of the island’s nightlife calendar, are still going ahead.
The clear message is that while the storm has left its mark, Ibiza’s nightlife remains strong. Above all, managers have reminded everyone that safety is the priority. The music may stop for a few minutes, but protecting people matters more than the party.
