Every August, Málaga bursts into vibrant colour, sound, and celebration as one of Spain’s most iconic festivals unfolds: the Feria de Málaga. This year, from August 16th to 23rd, the city once again transforms into a stage where Andalusian culture is celebrated with unmatched passion. Whether you’re strolling through the old town in daylight or dancing under the stars at the fairgrounds, the Feria offers a sensory journey into the heart of southern Spain.
Where History meets Celebration
With roots dating back to the 15th century, the fair honours the city’s history while celebrating the vibrant Andalusian lifestyle of today. Whether you’re dancing on the streets of the old town or enjoying live music at the fairgrounds, the Feria is a truly unforgettable experience.
The celebrations kick off on the night of August 15th with a spectacular drone and fireworks display along the coast. The Day Fair (Feria de Día) takes over Málaga’s historic centre with verdiales performances, flamenco dresses, and impromptu dancing in the plazas. All accompanied by local wine and mouthwatering street food. As night falls, the party continues at the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds during the Feria de Noche, with free concerts, themed casetas, and an amusement park filled with rides and bright lights.
This year brings modern touches to tradition. A walkable portada, inspired by a 19th-century city kiosk, will serve as the iconic gateway to the fairgrounds. It features over 1.4 million LED lights, combining visual impact with sustainable technology. Public transport has been enhanced, including late-night metro services and additional bus lines. Safety has also been prioritised, with new surveillance systems and child-friendly services like QR wristbands for minors. It’s a Feria built for everyone, locals, tourists, families, and solo travellers alike!
A Taste of Andalusia
Food and drink are at the heart of the Feria experience. Enjoy beach-grilled espetos, crispy pescaíto frito, jamón ibérico, flamenquines, and, of course, churros! Sip on a chilled tinto de verano as you take in the sights and sounds. In addition to the street food and casetas, La Malagueta bullring will host traditional corridas, while horse parades and flamenco dancers fill the streets with authentic Andalusian spirit.
One of the great luxuries of life in Andalusia is the balance between celebration and peace. For those living in or visiting the countryside around Casares, Gaucín, or Ronda, Málaga is just a short drive away. It is close enough to enjoy the Feria by day, yet far enough to retreat to the calm of nature by night. Imagine dancing under lights in the city, then relaxing in your private villa among olive groves and mountain views.
Schedule and Highlights
This iconic summer festival brings together tradition, culture, music, and entertainment for all ages. From the grand opening parade to dazzling fireworks, every day promises unique experiences. Here’s your day-by-day guide to the most important events of this year’s fair.
Friday, August 15 – Opening Night
- Historic Parade: The traditional Cabalgata Histórica de Málaga starts at Plaza de la Merced and ends with the symbolic handover of the city keys at Plaza de la Aduana.
- Drone Light Show at the Port of Málaga, a spectacular display of lights and technology.
- Pyromusical Fireworks at the cruise terminal entrance to kick off the celebrations in style.
Saturday, August 16
- Romería (pilgrimage) to the Basilica of Santa María de la Victoria, a deep-rooted local tradition.
- Verdiales Folk Music Festival in Calle Marqués de Larios.
- 9:30 PM: Opening speech (pregón) at the fairgrounds by acclaimed Málaga-born writer Javier Castillo.
- 10:00 PM: Official lighting ceremony, the artistic illumination of the fairground begins!
Sunday, August 17
- More Verdiales music performances (Pandas Primera de Comares & Los Lagares).
- “Magic Fair” at Plaza de la Merced, fun for families with workshops, games, theatre, and magic shows.
Monday, August 18
- Verdiales from Pandas El Capitán and Primera de Benagalbón.
- Magic Fair, “The Dragon’s Fair” at Plaza de la Merced.
- Youth DJs at the Explanada de la Juventud, live music and dancing late into the evening.
Tuesday, August 19
- Verdiales music from Moclinejo and San Lorenzo Mártir groups.
- Magic Fair continues in Plaza de la Merced.
- Equestrian Show at the Horse Exhibition Centre, including a traditional dress competition and nighttime performance.
- DJs at the Youth Zone.
Wednesday, August 20
- Folk music from Santo Pítar and Coto Tres Hermanas.
- Municipal Auditorium hosts a special night of flamenco and traditional Malaga dances.
- Flamenco dance festival in the Municipal Caseta.
- DJs continue to entertain at the Explanada de la Juventud.
Thursday, August 21
- Verdiales by San Isidro de Periana and La Torre (Montes style).
- Magic Fair returns to Plaza de la Merced.
- Equestrian Show “Latido de Málaga” at the Horse Centre.
- DJs Micky Rodríguez and Manuel Pallarés take the stage at the Youth Zone.
Friday, August 22
- Verdiales from Panda Aires del Torcal and La Torre.
- Children’s activities and shows continue at Plaza de la Merced.
- At the Municipal Auditorium: “Toreros con Chanclas” Gala Show, a fusion of humor and music.
- Flamenco & Copla Tent: Final round of the 18th Spanish Song Contest, featuring Verónica Martín.
Saturday, August 23 – Final Day
- Final Verdiales performances from La Cepa and Los Lagares.
- Magic Fair wraps up in Plaza de la Merced.
- Horse Show, “Soul of Málaga on Horseback” at the Equestrian Centre (4:00 PM and 10:00 PM).
David Verbaan | 14th August 2025
