These awards have been convened by the city of Palma since 1958, although initially only dedicated to literature in the Catalan language. Currently five modalities are established: 'Llorenç Villalonga' Novel Award (in catalan), 'Joan Alcover' Prize for Poetry (in catalan), 'Antoni Gelabert' Award for Visual Arts, Comics Award (in Catalan and Castilian) and Short Film Award (in all languages).
The gala awards ceremony is celebrated on the day of San Sebastian (January 20), patron of the city.