La Feria de Malaga is one of the most vibrant and exciting events in the charming coastal city of Malaga, Spain. This annual festival captures the essence of Andalusian culture and enchants Malagueños and visitors alike with its lively atmosphere, traditional music and dance, delicious food, and colorful parades. In this blog post, we explore the origins, highlights, and importance of La Feria de Málaga so you can gain insight into this spectacular celebration.
This year’s Feria will be held from August 12 through August 19, both in downtown Málaga and at the Palacio de la Feria de Málaga. Also known as “Feria Week,” this festive period is eagerly awaited by Malagueños and visitors alike, who mark their calendars for this colorful spectacle.
La Feria de Málaga dates back to the 15th century when the Catholic monarchs Isabella I and Ferdinand II conquered the city in 1487. As a tribute to their triumph, they founded the fair to celebrate the Christian reconquest of Málaga from the Moors. Over the centuries, the fair has grown into an annual event that attracts thousands of Malaga residents and tourists.
Official opening Feria
The traditional part is the carriage ride with horses and carriages. This procession (Romeria de la Virgen de la Victoria de Málaga) leaves during the first morning of the feria from the City Hall to the basilica. It is a pilgrimage to the city’s patron saint, Virgen de la Victoria. This officially opens the feria.
Much of the local population goes to the festivities entirely in style. Ladies are dressed in beautiful flamenco dresses and gentlemen wear nice suits and hats. This happens more during the day than at night because at night it is one big party.
La Feria in Day-Time
The first part of the annual fair, “Feria de Día”, is a daytime celebration that takes place in the center of the city. The streets are filled with decorated stalls, lively music and dance performances that create a lively and cheerful atmosphere. Locals and tourists mingle, feasting on traditional delicacies and enjoying local wines while wearing traditional Andalusian clothing.
La Feria in Night-Time
When the sun goes down, the atmosphere turns into a magical wonderland during the “Feria de Noche” (Night Market at the Palacio de la Feria). The fair moves to the fairgrounds just outside the city center, where an impressive display of lighted tents, carnival rides and fairground attractions await visitors of all ages.
Fireworks and parades:
No fair is complete without a grand fireworks display to light up the night sky. During the Malaga Fair, dazzling fireworks displays illuminate the city, creating a breathtaking spectacle for all to enjoy. There are also parades of beautifully decorated horse-drawn carriages that meander through the streets, adding to the royal charm of the fair.
Transportation to the la Feria de Malaga:
If you want to come by car, it is better to park outside the center. The best is, either come by taxi/Uber (regular cab is even cheaper), or by public transportation. There are mega bus lines going day in and day out, even at night to and from the Feria grounds.
Conclusion:
The Malaga Fair is a magical celebration that embodies the heart and soul of Andalusian culture. This vibrant festival gives Malagueños and visitors alike the chance to immerse themselves in the rich traditions, delicious gastronomy and passionate music and dance of this beautiful region. If you are planning a trip to Malaga, the Malaga Fair should be one of your priorities, as it promises an unforgettable and authentic Andalusian experience that will leave you with indelible memories for years to come.
If you’re going to be in/ around Malaga for a few days more, you might check out some other things to do instead of partying 24/7. See this blog post: Tips To Discover Málaga – Things To Do In- & Around, to find out!
