Feria de Malaga (Malaga Fair), also affectionately known as the August Fair, returns stronger than ever in 2025. From August 16 to 23, Malaga will be dressed in festivity, tradition, and joy for eight unforgettable days filled with events, music, history, and fun.
Get ready to experience one of the most important fairs in Andalusia in all its splendor!
Official Dates and Featured Events
Opening Fireworks Show
The Feria de Malaga, often referred to as the Malaga Fair, will officially kick off at midnight on Friday, August 15, with a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the beaches and harbor for approximately 20 minutes. Every year, thousands gather at key spots such as Malagueta, Misericordia and Huelin beaches, where the fireworks create a magical and thrilling atmosphere. Often accompanied by stunning drone light shows, this spectacle sets the tone for the vibrant celebrations to follow.
Opening Ceremony Speech
On Saturday, August 16 at 9:30 PM, the traditional opening speech (Pregón) will take place at the Cortijo de Torres fairground, a highly anticipated moment that draws in thousands of attendees. This year, the honor of delivering the opening address falls to Malaga-born writer Javier Castillo, author of the best-selling novel The Snow Girl.
The Pregón is held on a dedicated stage set in front of the main gate of the Real de la Feria (the official fairgrounds). After the speech, the artistic lighting of the gate and the entire fairground is switched on—a spectacular moment that officially marks the beginning of the fair.
Pilgrimage of the Virgen de la Victoria
On the morning of Saturday, August 16, Malaga wakes up to one of the most emotional traditions of the fair: the pilgrimage in honor of the Virgen de la Victoria, the city’s patron saint. The procession starts in front of the City Hall, where a colorful parade sets off toward the Basilica-Sanctuary, led by the flag of Malaga.
Horseback riders, flower-adorned carriages, and locals dressed in traditional Andalusian attire fill the streets with music, devotion, and joy. The pilgrimage ends with the ceremonial raising of the flag at the sanctuary, where it will remain throughout the fair. More than just a tradition, it’s a heartfelt tribute to the patroness of Malaga and a bridge between the city’s religious, historical, and cultural identity
Historical Parade – August 19
The historical parade on August 19 commemorates the entry of the Catholic Monarchs into Malaga in 1487. The city transforms into a living history stage: Christian and Moorish soldiers, noble ladies, knights, and even Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand themselves ride through the city center in carriages and on horseback.
Dressed in period costumes, the participants reenact the solemn surrender of the city, culminating in a grand finale in front of the Cathedral. It’s a unique spectacle that combines historical reenactment, theatrical performance, and collective pride—captivating both locals and visitors alike.
It’s a unique spectacle that blends living history, theatrical performance, and collective pride—captivating both locals and visitors alike.
Free Concerts
Every night, the Municipal Auditorium at the fairgrounds hosts free concerts that draw in thousands of attendees. In 2025, well-known artists such as Chambao, Camela, Merche, Mojinos Escozíos, and Toreros con Chanclas will fill the nights with music and fun.
In addition, the historic city center comes alive during the day with live performances in squares like Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza del Obispo, and Plaza de las Flores, spreading joy through every corner of the city
Live Music Every Afternoon at La Fábrica
Throughout the entire Feria de Malaga week, La Fábrica becomes one of the liveliest meeting points in downtown Malaga. From August 16 to 23, starting at 4:00 PM, this vibrant venue will host free live concerts, blending the best of local music with the city’s festive spirit.
This year’s lineup includes daily performances by Lázaro Cruz (16/08), Encarni Navarro (17/08), Hoffman (18/08), Cienfuegos (19/08), Carlos Bravo (20/08), Javier Padilla (21/08), Cuban Mix (22/08), and Deni Peña (23/08). A perfect and refreshing way to enjoy the fair in a modern setting, with great music, craft beer, and a festive vibe in the heart of Malaga’s Soho district.(See Location).
Equestrian Shows
One of the most visually striking elements of the Feria de Malaga is its strong equestrian tradition. Each year, a dedicated area is set up at the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds for horse shows, where the grace of the riders and the beauty of the horses come together in a true celebration of Andalusian heritage.
Men and women dressed in traditional short jackets (traje corto) parade daily with elegance and precision, accompanied by beautifully adorned carriages. Their performances display skill, style, and respect for a centuries-old tradition. There are also carriage-driving competitions, where judges evaluate the horses’ presentation and training—captivating both experts and curious spectators alike. It’s not uncommon to see these parades throughout the historic center too, creating postcard-like scenes in places such as Plaza de Toros or Calle Alcazabilla. If you’re staying at our hotel, you might even catch the view from your room. A regal and family-friendly experience that adds authenticity and elegance to the fair.
Activities for Children and Families
The Feria de Malaga also caters to the little ones with a full program of family-friendly activities. During the day, Plaza de la Merced transforms into a lively kids’ zone featuring interactive games, creative workshops, puppet shows, and entertainment tailored specifically for children. From midday until the late afternoon, this charming corner of the city becomes a perfect space to enjoy with the family, learn through play, and soak up the festive vibe in a relaxed atmosphere.
As night falls, the fun moves to the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds, where colorful rides—from carousels to roller coasters—light up the fair with excitement. The Municipal Children’s Caseta also offers a daily lineup of performances, storytellers, and entertainers, ensuring the magic of the fair reaches even its youngest visitors. It’s the perfect plan for families seeking joy and connection in a safe, welcoming, and smile-filled environment.
Celebrations at La Fábrica
Key Locations
The Feria de Malaga is celebrated across two vibrant locations, each offering a different yet equally unforgettable experience:
Historic Center (Feria de Día)
During the daytime, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Malaga’s historic center bursts into life. Iconic streets such as Calle Larios, Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza del Obispo, and Plaza de las Flores become a massive open-air celebration. Live music, spontaneous dancing, traditional verdiales folk bands, and endless food and drink stalls create a festive and energetic atmosphere. Locals don their flamenco attire and dance sevillanas in the streets, giving the Feria de Día its unmistakable Andalusian charm.
Cortijo de Torres Fairgrounds (Night Fair)
When the sun sets, the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds open their doors to thousands of visitors. With over 200 free-entry casetas, the area offers music, dancing, and diverse food until the early hours of the morning. The site features distinct zones: a youth area with DJs and electronic music, a family-friendly section with rides and traditional casetas, and the iconic illuminated Ferris wheel, a true symbol of the night fair. Here you’ll also find the Municipal Auditorium, home to the major nightly concerts that light up each evening of the Feria.
Traditions You Can’t Miss
One of the most eye-catching elements of the Feria de Malaga is the traditional attire: many women wear flamenco dresses with ruffles, polka dots, Manila shawls, and flowers in their hair. Men often don the classic short country-style suit (traje corto) with a Cordobés hat and sash. This colorful fashion not only beautifies the streets but also adds authenticity and pride to the celebration.
Music is also at the heart of the experience. Throughout the fair, you’ll hear sevillanas, flamenco rumbas, and especially verdiales—a folk style unique to the Malaga region. The pandas de verdiales, groups of musicians with guitars, violins, cymbals, and tambourines, roam the city squares with joyful, infectious melodies that inspire spontaneous dancing and festive camaraderie.
The fair’s traditional drinks also take center stage. Cartojal, a chilled sweet wine in its signature pink bottle, has become an unofficial symbol of the Feria: refreshing, festive, and perfect for sharing. Another popular choice is rebujito—a mix of manzanilla or fino sherry with lemon-lime soda and plenty of ice, offering a light, sparkling twist to beat the summer heat.
Lastly, no mention of the Feria de Malaga would be complete without the biznaga: a handcrafted bouquet of fresh jasmine flowers assembled into a sphere atop a dried thistle stem. At sunset, traditional vendors known as biznagueros, dressed in dark vests with red sashes and warm smiles, offer them throughout the city. Gifting a biznaga is more than a gesture—it’s sharing a piece of Malaga’s soul: fragrant, elegant, and deeply rooted in local identity.
Beyond the Fair
In addition to enjoying the Feria itself, we invite you to discover some exclusive experiences to enhance your visit this August.
Flavor & Sea Pack (Gourmet Menu and Catamaran Ride)
Let yourself be surprised by a gourmet and sensory experience designed to delight every sense. Savor an exquisite Mediterranean menu at our Bendito restaurant, prepared with the finest local flavors, and complement it with a catamaran cruise through Malaga Bay—witnessing the festive city from the sea at sunset. A perfect combination of cuisine, relaxation, and unforgettable views for just €30, available for a limited time.
Summer Cocktail Route Across Premium Rooftops
Dive into the freshest summer flavors with our exclusive cocktail route. Visit the best rooftop spots of Grupo Premium and taste unique creations by our bartenders, inspired by iconic summer destinations. Complete the route and unlock a delicious prize! A fun and original way to keep celebrating the fair throughout Malaga’s city center.
Grupo Premium’s Preamble Agenda
Looking for more fun outside the fairgrounds? At Grupo Premium, we’ve curated a special event agenda packed with live music, unique culinary experiences, exclusive promotions, and perfect city plans. Best of all? Our agenda is updated monthly and active all year long. Are you going to miss it?
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