The big day of the Jesús festivities dawned wet. Rain fell persistently on the village early in the morning, causing some concern among residents that the day would be spoiled. However, by mid-morning, the rain had stopped and, although the clouds lingered, the sun eventually came out. Inside the parish church, which was filled to capacity, fans were skilfully waved in an attempt to alleviate the heat. Even the fans installed in the corners were unable to circulate the air.
The solemn mass, presided over by the Bishop of Ibiza, Vicent Ribas, brought together numerous parishioners as well as prominent figures such as the President of the Consell d'Eivissa, Vicent Marí, and the Mayor of Santa Eulàlia, Carmen Ferrer. The entrance to the church was both solemn and colourful. First came the Colla de l'Horta, setting the traditional pace; then came the local authorities, followed by representatives of the clergy. The Cor des Pla de Jesús provided musical accompaniment for the ceremony.
At the door, decorated with flowers and leaves forming a festive arch, a priest placed chairs for those who could not get inside: ‘These chairs are for those of us who are left outside,’ he said. ‘It's so hot,’ a young woman murmured as she rummaged through her bag for a fan.
After a little over an hour of ceremony, the procession left the temple to begin the procession. The colla set the pace, accompanying the faithful on a route that circled the church, where the decorations—colourful garlands and ribbons waving in the wind—reminded everyone that Jesus was celebrating.
That was when a few drops began to fall again. The attendees looked up at the sky with some concern, as the memory of last year's suspension of the float parade was still fresh in their minds. ‘At this time of year, you always have to be careful because the rain has surprised us more than once,’ commented a veteran neighbour, umbrella in hand, prepared just in case. The fear lasted only a few minutes.
The most eagerly awaited moment came when the procession returned to the parish church. Anticipation filled the square as the balladors and balladores took their places in the centre, ready for the ball pagès. The sound of castanets and the rhythm of drums marked the start of the dance, watched enthusiastically by dozens of people.
«Every year is special, but when the whole town comes together and the square is full, it gives you goosebumps,» said Maria, a Jesús resident who never misses this event. Another attendee standing next to her commented, ‘Luckily, the rain was just a scare.’