Tourists face potential fines of up to €85,000 for attending illegal parties in Ibiza

Spain’s British embassy has warned holidaymakers visiting Ibiza and Majorca of potential fines of up to €85,000 for attending illegal parties this summer.

The Balearic government continue their crackdown on unlicensed and unregulated events, now targeting attendees with hefty fines. The new measures are part of bigger strangulation on “irregular commercially-promoted parties” unveiled by Mercedes Garrido, Balearic Councillor for the Presidency, and Vincent Mari, President for the Council of Ibiza. The change has been heavily influenced by several serious accidents occuring after illegal events, which have significantly grown in numbers on the two Balearic Islands since pre-pandemic life.

But it’s not just tourists that face colossal financial implications; property owners also face fines between €100,000 and €300,000, and a proportion of that cost must be passed on to attendees.

“There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending irregular commercially-promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Majorca,” said a spokesperson for the British Embassy. “Licensed clubs and bars are required to meet safety and security standards, including emergency exits and capacity limits, and to have trained licensed security staff. Irregular commercial parties may not meet these standards” they added.

As for the British government’s advice to tourists travelling to the region, they say: “You should take care of your belongings, ensure you know where emergency exits are located and not take unnecessary risks. Heavy fines may be imposed by local authorities to anyone attending irregular commercial parties.”

The Balearic government seem intent on regaining totalitarian influence over the region’s nightlife culture post-covid. It still remains to be seen if any of these newly imposed measures will be efficiently enforced by example, but we would urge you to air on the side of caution if you’re thinking about having any off-grid fun on the white isle this summer – just in case.