From 17th until 24th August, a very special event is set to take place in Málaga – the Feria de Málaga, or “Málaga Fair”, which is held in the Andalucian city every year during this month.
The always-popular street fair is set to once again be an extravaganza of music, dancing, and fun, marked by free concerts, fireworks, and fairground rides.
But if you have never previously been in Málaga during the time of the fair, you might be curious about what it involves and why it is so important.
With that in mind, let’s give you a rundown of what you can expect from this year’s fair.
What is the Málaga Fair, and why does it exist?
Málaga Fair – also sometimes referred to as “Feria de Agosto” or “August Fair” – commemorates the moment on 18th August 1487 when the Catholic Monarchs, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, conquered Málaga from the Moors.
Not long after they took the city, the newly formed local government began a tradition of celebrating this achievement. Today’s Málaga Fair, then, can trace its history as far back as 1491.
Over the years, the fair has gone on to become one of southern Europe’s biggest summer parties, with thousands of attendees every year. It is, then, an experience not to be missed – and our own Málaga Airport private transfers here at Simply Shuttles can help you immerse yourself in even more of it.
Where do the festivities take place?
There are two key areas of the city where the celebrations of Málaga Fair are held: the old quarter around Calle Larios, and the Real de la Feria, which is the fairground proper in the western part of Málaga.
The old quarter is where the partying is centred during the day, from around midday until 6pm. It won’t exactly be difficult to tell this is the case, given the free concerts that will be taking place in several squares, as well as the crowds of revellers, many of which will be wearing traditional Andalucian costume. A daily parade of horses and carriages will be evident, too.
Although low-key celebrations will happen in the fairground during the day, when the night falls, this part of the city will see its most intense partying. As a visitor, you will be able to appreciate the funfair, as well as various casetas areas (huts or booths) incorporating bars and music to get you into the perfect summery mood.
The anticipation and excitement are picking up
Unsurprisingly, both nearby residents and prospective visitors from further afield are already limbering up for this year’s Málaga Fair.
The local English-language newspaper, SUR in English, reported that the 81-year-old Mayor of Málaga, Francisco de la Torre, recently joined almost 500 people for the annual swim across the city’s port. This event, which covers some 1,000 metres, traditionally takes place in the run-up to the fair.
Meanwhile, according to the same news outlet, the consumers’ union (UCE) has estimated that each fair visitor will spend an average of €76, which would be 13.15% up on last year’s expenditure. So, if you’re planning to take in the celebrations, you would be well-advised to have a bit of cash put aside to help you make the most of it. To learn more about our excellent-value Málaga Airport private transfers that will whisk you around the region in comfort during your stay here, please don’t hesitate to send the Simply Shuttles team an email, or to give us a call on +34 951 279 117.
