Calendar of Bank Holidays and Events in Malaga

Is today a bank holiday in Malaga? What is being celebrated tomorrow or during your holiday? This guide gives you a clear overview of national, regional and local bank holidays in Malaga, along with the most important festivals and events of the year.

National Bank Holidays in Malaga

Regional and Local Bank Holidays in Malaga

Major Events and Festivals in Malaga

• 5-6 January: Three Kings Parade. Colourful parades with sweets for families.
• February (variable): Carnival of Malaga. Costumes, satire groups and street parades.
• March or April: Holy Week. One of the most impressive processions in Spain.
• Early May: May Crosses. Flower cross competitions in neighbourhoods like El Perchel.
• 23-24 June: Midsummer Night. Bonfires on the beach and traditional swims.
• 16 July: Virgen del Carmen. Maritime procession honouring the patron saint of fishermen.
• Mid-August: Malaga Fair. The biggest festival of the year with marquees, flamenco and parades.
• 28 December: Day of the Holy Innocents. Jokes and flamenco dancing.
• 31 October: Halloween. Themed parties in bars and clubs.

History of Malaga's Festive Calendar

Malaga's festive calendar reflects more than 3,000 years of history. Founded by the Phoenicians around 770 BC under the name of Malaka, the city later came under Roman, Visigothic and Muslim rule for nearly eight centuries as part of Al-Andalus.

The Christian conquest by the Catholic Monarchs on 19 August 1487 was a turning point. This date, now a local bank holiday, commemorates Malaga's incorporation into the Kingdom of Castile and gave rise to many religious celebrations. From then on, churches and convents were built, and the first brotherhoods emerged that would lay the foundations for today's Holy Week processions.

Over time, ancient pagan traditions —such as solstice bonfires— merged with Christian festivals. This fusion gave birth to deeply rooted celebrations like Midsummer Night (23-24 June), with its bonfires on the beach, and Christmas. Even more modern events like Halloween have found their place among local customs.

This rich blend of Phoenician, Roman, Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences makes Malaga's festive calendar one of the most diverse and culturally interesting in Andalusia, where devotion, popular joy and history live together in perfect harmony.

Getting Around Malaga During Bank Holidays and Events

During Holy Week and the Malaga Fair, the city centre becomes very busy and parking is difficult. Here are the best options:

Car Hire

Perfect if you want to explore the Axarquia, Velez-Malaga, Rincon de la Victoria or inland villages with complete freedom.

Hire a Car in Malaga

Taxi or Private Transfer

The most comfortable option during major festivals. Avoid traffic and parking stress.

Book Taxi or Transfer

*No credit card details or advance payment required. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best prices and availability.

Other Public Transport Options During Festivals

During Holy Week and the Malaga Fair, the city centre is very crowded and parking is difficult. Public transport is usually reinforced to make getting around easier:

• Renfe Cercanías (C-1 & C-2): Extra trains run, especially at night. During Holy Week and the Fair, services continue until the early hours (last trains from Málaga Centro-Alameda around 2:50 am).
• Malaga Metro: Extended operating hours. During Holy Week it often runs almost continuously from 6:30 am until 2:30 am on the busiest days.
• EMT Buses: Regular lines are strengthened and special routes are added. During the Fair, line F runs 24 hours connecting the centre with the fairground.

Tip: Always check the latest timetables a few days in advance on the official websites of Renfe Cercanías, Malaga Metro and EMT Málaga, as special services can vary each year.

Explore More About Bank Holidays and Events in Malaga

Want to know what festival is happening today or tomorrow in Malaga? Visit our blog for detailed guides and travel tips.