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    The Malaga Fair 2024: an unforgettable experience combining music, tradition and gastronomy

    Check out the program for the Malaga Fair 2024: events, concerts, important dates... and the highlights you can't miss.

    The Malaga Fair is one of the most important events in the summer “feria” calendar in Andalusia. If you love flamenco, flair, passion, food and a good party, this is something you definitely shouldn’t miss.

    Known for its lively atmosphere, deep-rooted traditions and delicious cuisine, this annual fair attracts visitors from all over the world. In this article, we explore the dates of the celebration, its traditions, the key places you must visit and the rich gastronomic tradition that makes the Malaga Fair a unique and exciting experience.

    The Highlights of the Málaga Fair

    Everything is great fun during the Malaga Fair, but here are some of our highlights.

    1.   Watch the fireworks – choose your spot on the beach in the center of the action, head to a high point with a picnic or book a table on a rooftop terrace and be awed by the display.
    2.   Dancing, drinking and eating in the center of the historic city of Malaga – The streets come alive during the day with amazing music, delicious food and cold drinks. This is an opportunity to see the center of Malaga at its very best, with all ages and all nationalities joining in the fun.
    3.   Thrill seeking at the fairground – Kids and adults alike will love the many amazing rides at the fairground, with options suitable for all ages and bravery levels. This really comes alive at night and we’d recommend riding the big wheel for amazing views of the city.
    4.   Horses – Horses are a typical part of any Andalucian feria, and there are daily shows at the fairground to enjoy these magnificent animals performing. They take place at 16.00 and 22.00 every day of the feria.

    Malaga Fair Program 2024

    This year, the Malaga Fair starts on the 17th of August and runs for a full week, until the 24th of August.

    It begins with a bang (literally) on Friday 16th of August, with a massive firework display near the port, followed by a big party on the beach at La Malagueta. This year, there’s a drone light show to kick things off at 23.50 before the fireworks to music, which marks the start of the seven packed days of music and fun.

    Here are the key dates and times for your diary for Malaga Fair 2024 –

    Saturday 17/08/2024

    11.00 – Procession leaves from Malaga City Hall to the Santa Maria de la Victoria chapel with a floral offering, with live music from the Malaga Municipal Band and led by comedian Monolo Sarria who will carry the flag to the chapel. Upon arrival at the church, the flag will be raised and there will be a performance from the Aire Andaluz choir.

    In the city center there is entertainment and live music taking place in the following locations and times.

    Plaza de la Constitución

    Carlos Bravo – 13.00-16.00

    Hermanas Alarcón – 16.00-18.00

    There’s also live music taking place in these squares between 15.00 and 18.00 – Plaza Las Flores, Plaza del Obispo, and Plaza de San Pedro Alcántara.

    In the main street Calle Larios, you can enjoy performances from folk groups known as “pandas” as part of the Verdiales Festival from 13.00 to 17.00. There’s also a stage run by the folklore society of Malaga with choirs performing from 12.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 18.00.

    At 14.00 you can also enjoy a flamenco performance at the Peña Juan Breva on Calle Ramón Franquelo, 4.

    16.00 & 22.00 – Horse show at the equestrian centre Antonio Rodríguez Sánchez, 39.

    19.00 – Bull fight in the bullring.

    At the fairground, the music starts in the Municipal Flamenco “Caseta” at 14.00 and continues until 23.00.

    21.30 – Local singer El Kanka officially opens the fair at the fairground and at the same time in the kids’ area there’s a show for kids.

    22.00 – The switching on of the lights

    This sees the start of the music in earnest, with shows starting at the Verdiales “Caseta” and the Auditorium from 22.00 and the youngsters can enjoy dance music at 22.30 from Los 40 radio. The fun continues late into the night.

    Sunday 18/08

    Sunday sees the same format in the historical center of Malaga with live music and performances in the Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza Las Flores, Plaza del Obispo, and Plaza de San Pedro Alcántara between 13.00 and 18.00. There are also more great performances in Calle Larios, with folk music and choirs performing from 12.00 to 18.00 and a music and dance school also taking to the folklore stage from 16.00 to 18.00. Peña Juan Breva will once again have a flamenco show at 14.00.

    There’s a Magic Fair at Plaza de la Merced from 12.00-15.30 with games, workshops, plays and puppet shows, which promises to be a magical experience for the whole family.

    Once again, a bullfight takes place at the bullring at 19.00.

    On Sunday you can enjoy the following performances –

    14.00 – Music from Luis Perdiguero and Antonio Moya at the Caseta Municipal Del Flamenco Y La Copla

    16.00 and 22.00 – Horse show at the equestrian center

    21.30 – Performance for kids of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Caseta Municipal Infantil.

    22.00- 03.00 – In the Caseta De Los Verdiales, there’s a festival celebrating the verdiales flamenco from Malaga with two groups taking part; Los Montes and Raíces de Málaga.

    At 21.30 in the municipal auditorium there’s a demonstration of Malaga dance and flamenco and a gala.

    DJ Pablo Peña will be getting the kids up dancing in the youth area from 22.30 and from 23.00 there are some great performances at the Caseta Municipal Del Flamenco Y La Copla.

    Expect much of the same throughout the week, with different performers, but the same structure, until Saturday 24th of August.

    You can download the full programme in Spanish here and find out more in English on the website Guide to Malaga.

    Concerts in Málaga Fair

    The program includes almost 200 musical performances and 1,200 performers, and best of all, it’s totally free (apart from 2)! As well as the big names, the Town Hall is showcasing a lot of local talent, and 95% of the artists are from the Malaga region.

    These concerts take place in the Municipal Auditorium.

    Headliners include José Mercé, Lucrecia, Toni Zenet, María Peláe, Chenoa, Carlos Baute and Adrián Martín.

    Dates for the diary

    17/08

    22.00 – Señor Mirinda

    23.00 – Carlos Baute

    18/08

    22.00 – Jarrillo Lata

    23.00 – Toni Zenet

    20/08

    22.00 – Desmelenao

    22.45-02.00 – Malaguita Fest featuring; Caracoles (22.45-23.15), Tabletom (23.30-00.30), & Efecto Mariposa (00.45- 02.00).

    21/08

    22.00 – Virginia Gámez

    23.00 – José Mercé

    22/08

    22.00- Julio Benavente

    23.00 – Chenoa

    23/08

    22.00 – Adrián Martín

    23.00 – María del Monte

    24/08 – This is the only day you have to pay to see Marta Santos at 22.30 and María Peláe at 23.45.

    Portada iluminada de la feria de Málaga

    When is the Malaga Fair celebrated?

    The Malaga Fair is held annually during the month of August. For over a week, the city is transformed into a bustling scene of partying and joy. This year, it all kicks off with the fireworks at midnight on Friday 16th of August.

    Malaga born singer-songwriter Juan Gómez, known as El Kanka, has been chosen as the person to officially open the fair at the fairground on the night of Saturday 17th of August. At 21.30, just before the lights are turned on for the very first time, El Kanka will address the crowds from a stage at the main entrance to the fairground to get the festivities underway.

    There will be day celebrations and night celebrations taking place until the 24th of August.

    During the month of August, Malaga enjoys a warm and sunny climate. Temperatures are often high, creating an environment conducive to enjoying the outdoors and participating in the festivities. The region’s Mediterranean climate ensures sunny days and balmy nights, adding to the festive atmosphere of the fair.

    Where is the Malaga Fair held?

    During the Malaga Fair, two key locations become the epicenters of fun and celebration.

    Real Cortijo De Torres

    This large fairground space is located near the Cortijo Alto neighborhood, in the Teatinos-Universidad district. This is where the large fair is set up, with fantastic rides for all ages. This is also where the “casetas” are located, which are decorated structures where locals and visitors gather to enjoy food, drink and live music. The booths are the heart of the fair and offer a fun, party atmosphere.

    What are the “casetas”? 

    Caseta literally means “Little house” and they are essentially temporary structures erected during the feria where people can gather. These can be large marquees, or small areas or even little huts. What they have in common is they are only there during the feria, and they are places where you can listen to music, enjoy food and drink and dance the night away. Some casetas are private, for specific groups, families or organizations, others are run by bars or restaurants and some are run by the Town Hall and open to all.

    The best “casetas” in Málaga Fair in 2024

    We’d definitely recommend that you visit the Town Hall’s “Caseta Municipal del Flamenco y la Copla” where you can hear wonderful flamenco music, singing and of course dancing.

    There’s also a caseta for the kids, “Caseta Municipal Infantil” which is a great one for families, with clowns and entertainers and kids’ songs.

    Last but not least, head to the Caseta de los Verdiales, which is a great place to enjoy all the feria fun.

    Here’s a map of the casetas.

    Historic center of Malaga

    Another prominent place is the historic center of Malaga, where music and activities take place throughout the day, until 18.00. The main shopping street and thoroughfare of Calle Larios is the heart of all the action. During the fair, this famous street is decked out with spectacular lights and decorations. It is the perfect setting to enjoy parades, concerts and cultural events. In addition, the bars and restaurants in the area offer a wide variety of traditional dishes to satisfy the most demanding palates.

    Best areas in Historic center of Malaga to enjoy the fair

    But it’s not just Calle Larios, the whole of the center of Malaga joins in the fun. You’ll also find activities and performances in the main squares in the center of town. Check out Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza Las Flores, Plaza del Obispo and Plaza de San Pedro Alcántara.

    Explore the central area on foot, winding through the side streets and squares as well as on the main roads to find a table to rest weary feet and enjoy the atmosphere and some delicious food. There are so many places to enjoy, you just might need to try a few before you can find a free table.

    Traditions and Events in Málaga Fair

    The Malaga Fair is known for its deep-rooted traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. During the fair, the streets are filled with people dressed in traditional clothes, such as the flamenco dress for women and the short suit for men. Horses also play an important role in the fair, as riders parade through the streets decked out in traditional finery.

    Horseback riding represents an integral part of Andalusian culture and its equestrian tradition. Andalusia is known for its purebred Spanish horses and its horseback riding tradition. The Malaga Fair is an opportunity to show and celebrate this connection with the Andalusian equestrian culture, a way to preserve and honor the traditions of the past.

    Another of the most outstanding events is the Romería, a procession that takes place in honor of the Virgen de la Victoria, patron saint of the city. Thousands of people join this pilgrimage from the city to the Santuario de la Victoria, located on the outskirts of Malaga. The procession is filled with music, dance and a great display of devotion.

    Gastronomic Tradition in the Malaga Fair

    The Malaga Fair would not be complete without its delicious food. The typical dishes of the region are present in every corner of the fair.

    If you decide to visit it, you can enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes and flavors of the region. We chose our highlights below so you don’t miss out!

    “El Pescaíto frito”

    One of the most emblematic dishes of Malaga gastronomy is the fried fish. It consists of fresh fish, such as anchovies, squid or red mullet, battered and fried in olive oil. This delicious delicacy can be found in numerous booths and food stalls at the fair. It is perfect to enjoy as an appetizer or as a main dish.

    Sardine skewers

    Another very popular dish at the Malaga Fair is sardine skewers. This local specialty consists of fresh sardines on a wooden skewer and grilled to perfection over the flames. Sardine skewers are a typical delicacy of the Malaga coast and their smoky flavor is a true delight for fish lovers.

    Gazpacho

    On the hot days of the fair, gazpacho is a refreshing and tasty option. This dish consists of a cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, garlic and olive oil. Gazpacho is an Andalusian specialty and is very popular throughout the region, including Malaga. It is ideal to beat the heat and stay hydrated while enjoying the fair.

    Tapas

    Malaga is known for its tapas culture, and the fair is no exception. In many bars and booths at the fair, you can find a wide variety of traditional tapas, such as eggplant with honey, salmorejo, homemade croquettes, meatballs in sauce, among other options. Tapas is a great way to try different dishes in small portions and share with friends and family.

    Traditional desserts

    For those with a sweet tooth, the Malaga Fair also offers a selection of traditional desserts. Among them are borrachuelos, fried pastries made with flour dough, wine and aniseed, which are usually sprinkled with icing sugar. Another popular dessert is bienmesabe, a sweet treat made from almonds, sugar and eggs.

    Typical drinks at the Malaga Fair

    There are all kinds of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available at the Malaga Fair, but there are a few real favorites that we’d recommend trying for a real taste of the feria.

    Cartojal – You’ll see this brand everyone during the feria and it’s a very traditional drink to enjoy. It’s a sweet, muscatel wine, made in Malaga and best enjoyed very cold.

    Rebujito – For something a little lighter we’d recommend trying a rebujito. This is a really refreshing mix of sherry and lemonade, usually served in a large glass, or jug, over ice. It’s a great one to combat the heat of the feria.

    Malaga Sweet Wine – The Malaga region is famous for its sweet dessert wines made with muscatel or Pedro Ximénez grapes. These are sticky, syrupy really sweet wines, which are delicious. There are many different varieties, one of the most famous is the Malaga Virgen, but you can just ask for “vino dulce de Malaga”.

    Sherry – Manzanilla sherry is another very typical drink for a feria in Andalucia. It needs to be served cold and handled with care, as it packs a punch.

    How to dress at the Malaga fair?

    One of the absolute joys of visiting the Malaga fair is the amazing flamenco dresses that you’ll find on display. From little kids to Grandmas, you’ll find colorful, flamboyant dresses and you are very welcome to join them! There are shops dedicated to this incredible dress and they are sometimes available at charity shops if you don’t want to invest too much.

    If you feel like purchasing a flamenco dress is a little much, you can honor the feria with elements like a flowing skirt, anything with ruffles and a bit of flair. You’ll also find hair accessories with flowers that can add a touch of flamenco to any outfit and a fan is a great way to stay cool and add a bit of tradition and color.

    The Malaga Fair will offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Andalusian culture, enjoy a festive atmosphere, delight in the delicious local gastronomy, relax on the beach and be part of a celebration full of joy and hospitality. Visiting the Malaga Fair is a unique experience that will allow you to discover and enjoy everything that this fascinating city has to offer.

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