Every September Torremolinos throws one of the liveliest and most authentic fairs on the entire Costa del Sol. Officially recognised as a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest, the Torremolinos Fair brings together beautifully decorated ox-carts, horse parades, the scent of Málaga sweet wine and cured ham, and a massive pilgrimage that feels like stepping straight into the heart of Andalusia.
If you’re anywhere near the Costa del Sol in September, make time for this fair. By day the historic centre buzzes; by night the huge fairground lights up with festival tents (casetas).
Torremolinos loves a celebration all year round – carnival, San Juan, Virgen del Carmen – but nothing comes close to the scale and atmosphere of the September fair.
The tradition stretches back centuries. What began as a summer pilgrimage moved to September in 1970 and is now the largest urban pilgrimage in Andalusia. Thousands of locals, dressed in traditional costume, walk to the Ermita de San Miguel in the pine woods, accompanied by ox-carts, horses, singing and plenty of wine and ham.
The fair has two distinct phases:
Everyone gathers on a main avenue around 9:30 am; the procession sets off at 10:30 am and winds through the centre before heading out to the pine woods. From about 4 pm, folklore groups perform beside the little chapel. There are competitions for the best-decorated carts and tractors, and a strong emphasis on keeping the woods clean.
Streets fill with horses and decorated carts. From midday the squares ring with rumba and sevillanas; dancing breaks out everywhere. On 29 September a solemn procession of the patron saint brings the traditional part of the week to a close.
At sunset the festival tents open. Flamenco, sevillanas and DJ sets until 4 am, big concerts in the auditorium and a children’s area with theatre and workshops. The last day is “Children’s Day” – all rides are cheaper.
No Andalusian fair is complete without food. In the festival tents and at the stalls you’ll find everything from classic tapas to quick street food:
Eating is part of the fun – order, share and dance on.
This is Andalusia at its most joyful: tradition and modern fun rolled into one. Families have rides and children’s activities, flamenco lovers get live performances, and night owls can party until sunrise. And it’s only a 10–15 minute drive from Málaga Airport – the perfect day or evening out during your Costa del Sol holiday.
Torremolinos is just minutes from Málaga Airport. The fairground (Recinto Ferial) is well signposted.
Pick up a car at Málaga Airport and drive along the A-7 to the Costa del Sol. That way you’re completely flexible and can visit the fairground, pine woods or beaches whenever you like.
Book car hire at Málaga Airport
From Málaga Airport straight to your accommodation on the Costa del Sol. Once you’ve checked in, a short taxi ride takes you to the fairground – no luggage, no stress.
Book your taxi*No credit card required in advance and no prepayment. We recommend booking early for the best prices and availability.
From Fuengirola, Benalmádena or Marbella, the Consorcio intercity buses (e.g. M-110, M-120, M-220) run directly to the centre or close to the fairground. The C1 train stops at Torremolinos Centro station – from there it’s a short walk or local bus. During peak hours a normal taxi or Uber is the quickest choice.
Torremolinos Town Hall: Plaza de Andalucía 1, 29620 Torremolinos
Telephone: +34 952 38 00 00
Official website: www.torremolinos.es
There are large car parks around the fairground and in the pine-wood area. They fill up in the evening and especially at weekends, but arriving a bit earlier almost always finds a space.
Most festival tents and concerts on the squares are free. For some headline acts in the auditorium a reservation may be required, but entry to the fairground itself is always free.
Light rain doesn’t stop the pilgrimage; parades may move under cover or be slightly adjusted. Check the town-hall website for updates – the tents always provide shelter and the music never stops.
Yes – the last day is “Children’s Day” with reduced ride prices. There’s also a dedicated children’s tent with theatre, workshops and an hour of lower-volume music so the little ones can enjoy it too.
Local police, fire service and civil-protection teams are out in force. Wristbands are available for children and there are accessible areas – the fair has a strong reputation as family-friendly and safe.
It’s better to leave pets at home. With the crowds and noise they won’t enjoy it – they’ll be happier and calmer at your accommodation while you have fun.
Torremolinos celebrates all year round. Popular events include carnival, Semana Santa, San Juan and Virgen del Carmen – but none match the size of the September fair.
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