The Malaga Fair, also known as the August Fair in Malaga, is one of the liveliest celebrations in Andalusia. Every mid-August, centred on the 19th, the city comes alive with music, dance, food, and traditions that draw millions of visitors. Split between the Day Fair in the historic centre and the Night Fair at Cortijo de Torres, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re new to the Malaga Fair or planning your visit, this guide will help you make the most of it.
For this year’s exact dates and programme, see our annually updated blog post.
The Malaga Fair is an annual week-long festival blending history, culture, and pure enjoyment. Malaga fills with marquees, funfair rides, flamenco dancing, and an infectious party spirit. The Day Fair brings the historic centre to life, while the Night Fair takes over the huge Cortijo de Torres fairground. It’s the perfect time to listen to live music, tuck into sardine skewers (espetos de sardinas), and admire the colourful flamenco dresses.
The fair commemorates Malaga’s incorporation into the Crown of Castile on 19 August 1487, but today it’s above all a joyful celebration of Malagan hospitality and Costa del Sol spirit.
The fair began after the Catholic Monarchs reconquered the city on 19 August 1487. The first official celebration was held on 15 August 1491 with a procession from the cathedral to the church of Santiago. By 1492 the date had settled on 19 August, and in 1887 the fourth centenary saw grand historical parades, bullfights, and concerts.
Over the years the venue moved from Muelle de Heredia to the present Cortijo de Torres, home of the Night Fair since the 20th century. Today it ranks among Andalusia’s biggest festivals, alongside the Seville Fair.
There’s something for everyone. Here are the highlights:
The Day Fair turns streets – especially Calle Larios – into a sea of flowers and paper lanterns. Locals and visitors dance sevillanas, enjoy live music in squares such as Plaza de la Constitución, and sip cartojal (sweet wine) with tapas in bars and pop-up marquees.
The huge fairground comes alive with:
Verdiales (local folk), sevillanas, and flamenco fill the air. Major concerts take place in the Municipal Auditorium; spontaneous dancing breaks out everywhere.
The fair opens with the pregón (ceremonial speech) on La Malagueta beach followed by a spectacular midnight fireworks display. The first Saturday features the colourful romería – a traditional pilgrimage with horse-drawn carriages to the Basilica of Virgen de la Victoria.
The Malaga Fair is one of the Costa del Sol’s biggest events. Here are the easiest ways to reach both the Day Fair and Night Fair.
A hire car gives you complete independence. From Malaga Airport it’s just 15 minutes to the city centre or 20 minutes to Cortijo de Torres via the A-7. Large public car parks are available near the fairground, and you can easily combine the fair with day trips along the Costa del Sol.
Hire a Car in Malaga
Let us pick you up from your hotel anywhere on the Costa del Sol and drop you right at the fair entrance. Ideal during the busiest fair days – no parking hassle, no waiting for buses.
Book a Private Transfer*No credit card details or advance payment required. Book early for the best rates and availability – especially during the Malaga Fair.
The fair has two main locations:
It’s the ultimate taste of Costa del Sol life: vibrant culture, fantastic food, and non-stop fun. From daytime dancing in Calle Larios to late-night marquees under the stars, the Malaga Fair is pure Mediterranean magic.
If you love tradition, great company, and summer festivities, the August Fair in Malaga belongs on your calendar.
The Municipal Auditorium hosts national and local artists – flamenco, pop, and verdiales. Many street performances are free; the full line-up is published each year on our blog.
Yes – usually the Sunday after the official closing, rides are heavily discounted and there are extra family activities.
Almost all marquees are public and free. Only a handful of private ones charge admission.
Absolutely – family marquees, a large children’s area at the Night Fair, and the relaxed Day Fair make it very family-friendly.
Most marquees are covered, the auditorium is indoors, and many streets have awnings. The fair carries on in nearly all weather.
Malaga City Council: Plaza de la Constitución 1, 29005 Malaga
Telephone: +34 952 13 50 00
Official website: malaga.eu/feria-de-malaga
Credit cards accepted
