Malaga Fair Guide

The Málaga Fair isn't just an excuse to wear a flower in your hair and drink Cartojal: it's a whole week of hustle and bustle, traditions, concerts, food, stalls, fireworks, and lots of heat.

If you are planning to come this year, August 16-23 This guide will help you understand the basics. We'll explain where to go, how to get around, what to eat without breaking the bank, and how to survive if it's your first time. Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a desire to have a good time. Malaga will take care of the rest.

When is the 2025 Málaga Fair?

The 2025 Malaga Fair will be held from Saturday 16th to Saturday 23rd August As always, it starts with the fireworks on the night of Friday the 15th, and the next day the real excitement begins, with activities starting in the morning in the center and open booths at the fairgrounds.

The most practical thing is to write down these two key dates:

• Friday, August 15th at night: Drone and fireworks display from the port/cruise terminal, which can be seen from La Malagueta or the Huelin area.
• Saturday, August 16: Official start of the fair with the Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of La Victoria and the proclamation, and from then on, celebration every day until the following Saturday.

Although the schedule may vary slightly depending on the programming, the structure is more or less always the same: street atmosphere during the day in the center, y a more traditional festival in the Cortijo de Torres grounds in the afternoon and evening.

If you are thinking of coming from outside, it is best to plan at least two or three days, because there is so much to see and not everything is about partying (there are also concerts, cultural activities, sports, etc.).

Where it is held: center and fairgrounds

The Malaga Fair has two main stages, and it is important to be clear about this because the atmosphere changes quite a bit from one to the other It's very easy to get around both, although there are usually some lines for buses and taxis.

• The historic center (Day Fair): during the day, the streets of the center They're filled with music, bars, dancing, and a constant atmosphere. The main areas are Calle Larios and the surrounding area.
• Cortijo de Torres Fairgrounds: When the evening begins to fall, the fair moves to the fairgrounds, which are on the outskirts, in the area of the Cortijo de Torres It's like another fair traditional, with booths, attractions, concerts, food stalls and lots of nightlife.

You can go by special EMT bus or by taxi, and there are also parking areas, although with quite a lot of traffic, of course. In the following sections We give you more details about what to find in each of the fair's stages.

Daytime fair in the center of Malaga

If there is something that makes the Malaga Fair different, it is its daytime fair in the historic center No tents on the outskirts or enclosed areas: here the party takes place in the streets, among plazas, bars, and awnings hung between buildings to provide shade.

What's the atmosphere like?

Well, it's a great atmosphere, for better or worse. From early morning—around 12:00 p.m. when things start to get moving—until mid-afternoon, the center fills with groups of friends, music everywhere, bars in the street, and tons of people dancing, drinking, and having a good time.

There are live performances, DJs spinning in squares, and many clubs set up their own improvised "mini booths" in certain corners. The busiest streets are:

• Larios Street (decorated with lanterns, although it is more of a passing event than a celebration).
• Constitution Square (there is usually a stage with live music).
• Merced Square y Granada Street (more alternatives).
• San Juan Street and surrounding areas (full of bars and good music).

Is it for everyone?

It depends on the day and the time. In the morning, especially in the early days, there's a rather family-oriented and quieter atmosphere. But as the afternoon progresses, it becomes more.. a full-blown party: young people, very hot, drinks in hand, and a level of noise not suitable for everyone. It should last until 6 p.m.

What do you drink?

The typical thing is to drink carthole, which is a sweet wine from Malaga. It's served chilled and is sold everywhere in pink bottles, even in buckets filled with ice. There's also beer, rebujito, soft drinks, and some bars offer mojitos.

Fair at the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds

While the center is the kingdom of the cartouche in the sun, the Cortijo de Torres It is the afternoon and evening plan. Here the fair is experienced more similarly to other Andalusian fairs: with booths, lanterns, attractions and music until the wee hours It's located in the western part of Málaga, near the Trade Fair Palace, and is set up only for these days.

What's on at the fairgrounds?

• Booths There are dozens, some public and others private, but most are free to enter. Some are more traditional (with sevillanas and flamenco dancers) and others are more festive (with reggaeton, pop, and drinks until 6 a.m.).
• Attractions: the typical street of hell with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, bumper cars, shooting gallery, raffles... Ideal if you're going with children or want to spend some time relaxing before the night out.
• Municipal stage Every night there are free concerts organized by the City Council. They usually feature flamenco-pop groups and more contemporary or local artists. The full program is included later in the guide.
• Food stalls: hamburgers, hot dogs, baked potatoes, waffles, churros, kebabs... Everything, at any time.

What time is best to go?

• If you go with little ones, it is best to go at sunset (around 8:00 p.m.), when there are not so many people and the attractions are quieter.
• For those of you looking for a party, the good times are just beginning from 11:00 p.m., and many booths remain open until well into the early morning.

How do you get there?

• There is special EMT buses that connect different neighborhoods (and the center) with the fairgrounds throughout the night.
• There are also taxis, VTCs, and designated parking, although traffic can be hellish if you're driving. If you can avoid it, all the better.

How to get around during the fair (transport, traffic, taxis, etc.)

During the fair days, Malaga is transformed, and that includes traffic closures, pedestrianized streets, and a host of special buses. If you don't plan ahead, you could end up stuck in traffic or waiting for a taxi that never arrives. Here are the best options and some tips:

Special EMT buses

The EMT strengthens its lines and creates specific routes for the fair:

• Special lines to the fairgrounds: They connect with different neighborhoods and operate until the early hours of the morning (some until 6:00).
• Bus from the center to the fairgrounds If you're at the fair during the day and want to continue at night, there are lines that take you directly to Cortijo de Torres.
• Prepaid card: Highly recommended if you're taking several buses, it's cheaper than paying in cash.

You can check the schedules and stops on the EMT website or on its app, which is regularly updated with information specific to the fair.

Taxis and VTC (Uber, Bolt, etc.)

• Cabs: They work quite well, but during rush hour (especially early morning), the lines can be endless. There are marked stops in the center, and at the fairgrounds as well.
• VTC There are, but be careful because with high demand, prices go up. Also, not all areas are accessible during the fair, so you'll have to walk a bit.

Own car (not recommended)

If you can avoid the car The city center has many blocked streets, and at the fairgrounds, even though there's parking, the traffic is crazy. If you're traveling by car, it's best to park farther away and take a shuttle bus.

On foot (through the center)

To get around the city center during the daytime fair, the best way to get around is on foot. Many streets are pedestrianized and inaccessible by vehicle. Plus, you'll discover hidden corners you might miss in a hurry.

Where to eat at the Malaga fair

Between the carthole Sandwiches, fried tapas, and last-minute cravings, it's easy for the bill to spiral. But with a little planning, you can eat and drink well without putting too much stress on your wallet.

In the center:

To find out about the best restaurants for good, affordable food in Malaga, we recommend checking out our articles:

• The best cofrades bars in Malaga
• Where to eat well in the center of Malaga
• Where to eat in Huelin (Málaga)

We recommend always reserve since the center is packed on those days.

At the fairgrounds:

• Booths: Most offer a la carte or daily menu at lunchtime (less crowded and somewhat cheaper).
• Fair stalls: hamburgers, sandwiches, baked potatoes, waffles, churros... perfect for when hunger strikes in the early morning.
• Improvised beach bars: some with grilled meat and fried fish, although they don't always have visible prices, so it's better to ask before ordering.

And to drink?

• Cartujal: the classic sweet wine from Malaga. It costs between €6-8 a bottle in stores, but at bars and stalls they'll serve it by the glass for around €2-3 (or more if you order it in a large glass).
• Beer: It usually costs between €2.5 and €3.5, depending on where you get it.
• Rebujito, mojitos, drinks: In the more festive booths you'll see drinks for €6-10, so it's best to check prices first.
• Water and soft drinks: sometimes more expensive than beer. Literally.

Malaga fair booths at the fairgrounds

At the 2025 Malaga Fair there will be more than 120 booths distributed throughout the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds, and as usual, most are free access, so you can come in without any problem even if you're not a member or don't know anyone. Of course, each booth has its own unique feel, so we'll tell you a little about what you'll find.

How are they organized?

The booths are distributed by streets Within the grounds. Each street has a name and is numbered, so it's easy to find your way around (although with the crowds and the heat, it sometimes feels like a maze). Some booths are run by clubs, associations, or groups, while others are run directly by private companies.

What types of booths are there?

• Traditional: with live music (flamenco, copla, sevillanas), typical decor and a more relaxed atmosphere, especially in the afternoon.
• Marching Many of them feature DJs, commercial music, lights, and lots of young people. They fill up quickly after 11 p.m.
• Relatives: quieter, with good food and a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal if you're going with children or looking for a quiet spot to eat.
• Municipal: Organized by the City Council. There are free concerts, shows, and cultural activities for all audiences.

Which ones are usually worth it?

This can change every year, but here are some booths that tend to have a good atmosphere and are accessible:

• Flamenco and Copla Booth
• Youth Booth
• Verdiales Booth
• Municipal Mayor's Booth
• Booths of well-known clubs such as La Biznaga, El Cenachero, Peña El Sombrero...

Plan of the fairground booths

Here we will leave you the official plan of the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds as soon as it's available. Super useful for not wandering around aimlessly looking for specific booths.

Key dates and special events (announcement, fireworks, concerts, etc.)

Although the fair lasts several days, There are specific moments that should be marked on the calendar, especially if you want to see the highlights or make the most of your time. Here are the highlights of the Malaga Fair 2025:

Friday, August 15 – Drone and Fireworks Show

• Where: La Malagueta beach area or San Andrés beach.
• What's happening: At 11:50 p.m. the drone show begins and at midnight the fireworks begin.
• Council If you want a good spot, get there early. It's packed. Literally.

Saturday, August 16 – Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Victory

• Hour: from approximately 11:00 a.m.
• Place: Park Walk.
• What is: It's a parade with floats, horsemen, groups of people, and people dressed in flamenco dresses that accompany the floral offering to the Virgin of Victory. It begins in the center and continues up to the sanctuary.
• Flag bearer: Antonia del Rocío Monserrat Moreno Morales (Toñi Moreno).
• Itinerary: Malaga Town Hall, Paseo del Parque, Plaza de la Marina, (raising of the Malaga flag provided by the Malaga Historic Centre Association CCA.), Alameda Principal, Puerta del Mar, Atarazanas, Plaza de Arriola, Santa Isabel Corridor, Calle Carretería, Calle Álamos, Plaza de la Merced, Calle de la Victoria, Compás de la Victoria, Sanctuary.
• Performance at the Sanctuary of Andalusian Air Choir.

Concerts at the fairgrounds (every night)

• The City Council sets up a free municipal stage with concerts every night. They usually feature Andalusian artists, well-known Spanish bands, and a few surprises. This year, for example, some of the best-known artists include: Chambao, Camela, Merche, Mojinos Escozíos, Paco Candela, Bullfighters with Flip-flops, Joana Jiménez and Tamara Jerez
• They are made in the Youth Esplanade or in the Municipal Auditorium (depending on the year).

Fair in the center and on the grounds: from the 16th to the 23rd

• Every day has its things, but the first weekend (16-17) and the last Friday and Saturday (22-23) are the most intense.
• If you're looking for a quieter atmosphere, go during the week.

Alternative plans to take a break from the hustle and bustle

The fair is great, but it's not all about loud music, heat, and crowds. If you're spending a few days in Málaga and fancy a break from all the hustle and bustle, There are also quiet plans to disconnect for a few hours without straying too far from the environment.

A bit of beach time

Málaga has many urban beaches within walking or bus reach. Some good options:

• La Malagueta: Just 10-15 minutes from the center. It's not the quietest, but if you go in the morning, it's pretty nice.
• Pedregalejo o El Palo: more relaxed, with beach bars where you can have a leisurely espeto.
• Huelin Beach: to the west, closer to the fairgrounds. Fewer tourists, more Málaga residents.

Museums and cultural visits

If you're looking for some culture in air conditioning, there are a few well-equipped museums:

• Picasso Museum Malaga: perfect if you want something quick but with level.
• Pompidou Center: modern, colorful and close to the port.
• Malaga Museum: art and archaeology in a beautiful building on Plaza de la Aduana.
• Malaga Wine Museum: interesting if you are interested in the history of local wine (including Cartojal).

Stroll and have tapas in less hectic areas

• Pier One: ideal for taking a stroll, having a drink by the sea and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
• Mount Gibralfaro If it's not too hot, going up to the viewing point at sunset gives you a breath of fresh air and some amazing views of the city during the fair.
• Soho neighborhood: more alternative, with galleries, quiet bars and fewer people.

Siesta and accommodation with air conditioning

Don't underestimate the power of a nap. Seriously. If you're going out at night, a few hours of rest in the afternoon can make the difference between enjoying yourself or ending up with a carnal face.

Accommodation: where to sleep and how to book in advance

During the fair, Malaga is filling up, so if you come from outside, book in advance Seriously, prices are going up and they sell out fast.

Recommended areas

• Historical center: You are in the middle of the atmosphere, but it is noisy and the prices are high.
• Station area / María Zambrano: close to the center and well connected, quieter.
• Western Zone (Huelin, Cadiz Highway) Ideal if you're going to the fairgrounds at night. More local and cheaper.
• Pedregalejo / El Palo: Far from the city center, but quiet and close to the beach. Perfect if you want to combine the fair with relaxation.

Types of accommodation

• Hotels and apartments: the most comfortable, but they fill up quickly.
• Hostels and guesthouses: basic option if you are on a tight budget.
• Airbnb: look for neighborhoods that are not so central so you don't have to pay a fortune.

👀 Watch out!
Look for accommodation with air conditioning. It's a welcome addition in August.

Sport at Feria 2025

Although it may seem that everything is a party and cartojal, the Malaga City Council also organizes sports activities during the fair, open to the public and at different points in the city.

What kind of activities are there?

• Soccer and basketball tournaments (base categories)
• Regatta in the Port of Malaga
• Chess tournament
• Swimming competition
• Popular race
• Domino Championship (yes, it also counts as a sport here 😅)

Who can participate?

In most you can sign up anyone, although some are only for clubs or federated athletes. Registration is usually free or nominal.

Where can I see the calendar?

All detailed information will be published on the City Council website and in the official program of the Málaga Fair 2025, which we will include at the end of this guide.

Practical tips for the Malaga fair

Here are a few things that no one tells you but that They can save the day in the middle of the Malaga Fair:

Bathrooms

• In the center There are portable ones spread across key areas (Plaza de la Constitución, Calle Larios, etc.). They aren't always clean.
• In the fairground Each booth area has its own set of restrooms. Some booth owners allow you to use theirs if you consume.

Money

• Many booths accept cards, but bring some cash It's a good idea. At a fair, you never know.
• There are portable ATMs at the fairgrounds, but there's a line. It's best to withdraw money early.

Security

• Too many people = too many mistakes Be careful with wallets, cell phones and bags.
• If you're going in a group, make sure you have a meeting point in case you get lost.
• There is a police presence and first aid stations both at the center and on the grounds.

Schedules

• The day fair It starts around 12:00 and declines towards 18:00.
• The night fair It starts at 9:00 p.m. and lasts until well into the early hours of the morning.
• The attractions They open from mid-afternoon until 1 or 2 in the morning (more on weekends).

Sun, heat and survival

• Sunglasses, sunscreen and lots of water between glasses.
• Comfortable shoes: You're going to be walking, sweating, and dancing. This isn't the time to break out the new sandals.

Complete program of the Málaga Fair 2025

The official program The 2025 Malaga Fair includes all the concerts, cultural activities, shows, sports tournaments, pilgrimages and special events that are held from August 16-23. It is the definitive guide if you want to know what's happening, where and when.

👉 Here you can consult and download the official program of the Málaga Fair.

What exactly is celebrated? A little historical context

The Málaga Fair isn't just an excuse to party, although that's also true. It's a celebration in honor of the reconquest of the city by the Catholic Monarchs, who entered Malaga on August 19, 1487. Since then, that date has been marked as the origin of the fair, although over the years it has evolved to become what it is today: a mix of tradition, popular culture, and a lot of street.

At first the fair was held only in September and was more religious, but in the 19th century it began to be moved to August, coinciding with the historic anniversary. Today, the religious aspect continues in the form of a pilgrimage and Mass at the Sanctuary of La Victoria, but most people experience it as a grand week of local celebration, with all the ingredients: folklore, music, food, drink, dancing, and reunions.

One thing that makes the Malaga Fair special is that It is designed for everyone: There's an atmosphere for families, for young people, for those looking for something quieter or more traditional, and for those who want to party until the sun comes up.

In short, it is a fair that mixes the Andalusian, the urban, the festive and the local in a rather unique way. And although it may seem chaotic at times, that's part of the charm. If you've never been here, it's best to come with an open mind and let yourself go.

If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement Malaga Fair Guide you can visit our posts about Malaga.