Feria de la Sepia 2025 in Sant Joan de Labritja

On Saturday the March 22, 2025, takes place in Sant Joan de Labritja the fifth edition of the Sepia Fair instead. From 13:00 Visitors can expect a culinary feast that Sepia (cuttlefish) as the main ingredient. The fair not only offers a wide selection of traditional and innovative dishes, but also a varied supporting program with music, dance, and handicrafts.

Culinary highlight: Sepia in all variations

Ten participants have already registered to offer a variety of dishes where the Cuttlefish Visitors can sample traditional and avant-garde preparations of this popular squid. Particular attention is paid to the use of Peix Nostrum-Sepia, which are managed by the local fishing cooperatives of Ibiza and Sant Antoni Participants who have completed this special Cuttlefish use, receive a discount and have the chance to Special award.

Video: Sepia → Peix Nostrum →  Vimeo

Squid cooking competition

Another highlight of the fair is the cooking competition, the one against 14:30 A jury of four people, including representatives from City Hall, the festival committee, and local residents, will select the best dishes. The winners will receive a special award.

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Sepia and squid are not exactly the same, but are often confused with each other

• Cuttlefish belongs to the family of Squids (Cephalopods), more precisely to the Cuttlefish (Sepiida)They have a characteristic oval body and an inner calcareous shell, the so-called cuttlefish bonethat gives them a boost.
• Octopus is a general term that refers to various types of cephalopods can obtain, including Cuttlefish, Squids (Loliginidae) and Octopuses (octopods).
• In the kitchen, the term Octopus often used unspecifically, but in Spain and Italy a clear distinction is usually made between Sepia (Seppia in Italian) and Calamares (squid).

Photo: MartinStr @ Pixabay

It's squid season in Ibiza

The cuttlefish, a cephalopod from the cuttlefish and squid family, returns as a star in Ibizan cuisine. It is characterized by its thick inner shell, flattened body, and narrow fins. With eight arms and two longer tentacles used for hunting, it combines the use of ink and a neurotoxin against prey and rivals. Its skin possesses unique cells that allow it to change color and camouflage itself perfectly on the seabed like a chameleon. It prefers temperate waters, living in shallow coastal areas and in Posidonia environments, where it hides from predators. Therefore, the waters of the Pitiusas are an ideal habitat for it.

The catch of the Cuttlefish is carried out using environmentally friendly fishing methods, such as Red Atrasmallada. Similar to the Palangrillo, cuttlefish or trolling These techniques offer artisanal fishing that ensures the sustainability of their population. The nets are usually set parallel to the coast at shallow depths, without touching the seabed. This typically occurs between February and May, when cuttlefish are in their reproductive cycle and exhibit greater mobility. At this time, individuals have usually reached a suitable size for capture.

In the gastronomy industry, Cuttlefish a prominent role in the kitchen of the Pityusic IslandsIt is often an essential ingredient in rice dishes, whether as a stew or dry. Its intense flavor and soft texture are two of its great advantages and add a special touch to the dishes in which it is present. The recipes with Cuttlefish include an enormous variety of dishes, many of which incorporate seasonal vegetables. A clear example is the Rice with cuttlefish and vegetables, which typically occurs during Lent Artichokes, tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, carrots and peas accompany the rice, the fish broth and the Cuttlefish in a traditional preparation that finds more and more enthusiastic connoisseurs every year.

The passion of Ibizans for this delicacy is clearly evident in the celebration of Festival Gastronomòmic de sa Sèpia, which takes place annually in the village Sant Joan de Labritja A festive day in which the village square is filled with numerous stalls serving a wide variety of tapas and dishes. The tapas competition attracts many participants vying for the first prize, with the guests in attendance always emerging as winners.

Nutritionally, the Cuttlefish a variety of valuable elements that make it a highly recommended food. It is rich in iodine, essential for children's growth, contains vitamin E, which helps protect the immune system, and selenium, which helps prevent the onset of cardiovascular problems.

Musical entertainment and traditional performances

The celebrations officially begin with a performance of the traditional Ball Pagès by the dance group Colla of LabritjaAfterwards, live performances will ensure a lively atmosphere:

• Soul Doctor plays for 13:30 a.m. and 15:30 p.m.
• DJ Cardona lays from 20: 00 22 to: 00 pm and brings a party atmosphere to the trade fair.

Craft market and local products

In addition to the gastronomic offerings, there are numerous stalls where local products, Jewelry and other handicrafts are offered. Particularly interesting is the stand with Sweets, which were prepared by students of the community. The proceeds from the sale will be used to support their Graduation trips finance.

Gastronomic offerings and other attractions

In addition to the cuttlefish dishes, there are:

• A drinks bar
• A Lemonade stand
• A Crêpe stand

The event officially begins at 13:00, however, some stands will already be 12:00 .

New organizers and community engagement

This year there is a new feature in the Comissió of Festes: The young Joaní Vicent Serra takes over the organization of the fair for the first time and emphasizes: “The most important thing is that all visitors have fun.”

Traffic control during the event

Due to the celebrations, the street IE-321 between the kilometer points 0,620 and 0,800 am March 22, 2025 from 12:00 to 22:00 closed. Traffic will be diverted via the Schulstraße redirected.

Sant Joan de Labritja – A place full of tradition and nature

In addition to the Sepia Fair Sant Joan de Labritja is known for many other highlights:

1. Tradition and weekly market

Everyone Sunday A popular festival takes place in Sant Joan Market , where handmade jewelry, artwork, and organic products are offered. Here, you'll meet locals and tourists who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

2. Hippie culture and alternative scene

Sant Joan has its alternative lifestyle preserved. Many artists, musicians, and dropouts have settled here and shape the village's special flair.

3. Nature and hiking opportunities

The surroundings of Sant Joan offer numerous Walking through pine forests and spectacular coastal landscapes. The route to Portinatx Tower, a historic watchtower with breathtaking views.

4. Beaches in the area

Nearby are some of Ibiza’s most beautiful beaches:

• Cala Xarraca – A quiet bay with crystal clear water.
• Cala Benirràs – Famous for its sunset drumming sessions.
• Portinatx – A small former fishing village with three beautiful beaches.

5. Spiritual centers and retreats

The quiet surroundings of Sant Joan attract many Yoga and meditation centers Those seeking relaxation will find numerous alternative healing options here.

6. Local gastronomy

In addition to the “Fira de la Sèpia”, there are several excellent restaurants throughout the year, including:

• The Giri Café – For fresh organic food in a stylish ambience.
• Vista Alegre – A traditional restaurant with authentic Ibizan cuisine.
• La Paloma (nearby) – A charming country restaurant with a Mediterranean flair.

7. Festivals and traditions

Sant Joan is also known for its traditional festivals:

• Fiesta de Sant Joan (June 24) – With fire shows, music and dancing.
• Feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot (January) – Blessing of pets and rural moves.

Why you shouldn't miss the Fira de la Sèpia

The Sepia Fair 2025 promises to be an unforgettable day for all lovers of Ibizan gastronomy and culture. In addition to the culinary highlights, visitors can expect a varied program with music, dance, and handicrafts. A must for all those who authentic Ibiza want to experience!

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