Saint Sebastian (Sant Sebastià), patron saint of Palma, is celebrated in several places of Mallorca, although the most popular festivals are the ones in Palma, which develop within a versatile program of activities that begin after Christmas. According to tradition, Sant Sebastià saved Palma and other villages such as Calviá, Deiá and Inca from the bubonic plague. These villages celebrate his anniversary. The festival of Sant Sebastià is also celebrated in Pollença and Costitx.