The Malaga Fair 2024 will be held from 17 to 24 August. This event is one of the most important in the city's calendar and commemorates the taking of the city by the Catholic Monarchs. It will be a week full of festivities and traditions that you won't want to miss! lose! Welcome to the Malaga Fair 2024
Friends and lovers of good food and fun! The Cambara restaurant, located in Malaga's emblematic Muelle Uno, is pleased to extend a cordial invitation to join us for a unique experience during the Malaga Fair 2024!
The Malaga Fair, with its roots dating back to the 15th century, is a vibrant spectacle that encapsulates the essence and soul of this beautiful coastal city in southern Spain. For ten days in August, Malaga is transformed into a melting pot of culture, tradition and celebration, where locals and visitors come together in a feast of music, dance, gastronomy and merriment. From its colourful parades of floats to its bustling streets filled with stalls and attractions, the Malaga Fair is an event that captivates the senses and leaves an indelible impression on the hearts of all who have the privilege of experiencing it.
You may also be interested in: where to eat the best rice in Malaga
The origins of the Malaga fair
The Malaga Fair, also known as the August Fair, commemorates a significant historical event: the taking of the city of Malaga by the Catholic Monarchs on 19 August 1487.. This event marked the incorporation of Malaga into the Crown of Castile.
Here is the fascinating story behind this vibrant celebration.
Origin and Foundation
- The Municipal Councilof Malaga decided to establish an annual festival to commemorate the taking of the city by the Catholic Monarchs. This celebration began on 15 August 1491, with a procession.
- Initially, the feast was celebrated on the day of the Asunción, but then moved to the 19 August, coinciding with the feast of San Luis.
- At that time, the procession carried the royal standardwith which Malaga was won, and was directed from the Cathedral to the Church of Santiago, where mass was celebrated.
Development over time
- In the 17th century, the following were added rockets and fireworks displaysto the celebration.
- However, over time, the feast of St. Louis was reduced to the mass and the sermon.
- At 1887, to commemorate the IV Centenary of the Conquest, The traditional date of the capture of Malaga by the Christians was taken up again.
- The procession of the Virgen de la Victoria, which simulates the entrance of the Catholic Monarchs and their army. In addition, there were plant and flower exhibitions, regattas, concerts and bullfights.
Location of the Fair
- Throughout its history, the Malaga Fair has had several meeting points.
- Initially, it was installed in the Heredia Wharf, through the Park, Teatinosand other places.
- Currently, the Fair is held at the Cortijo de Torres, where you can also find the Malaga Trade Fair and Congress Centre.
Malaga Fair 2024 dates
The Malaga Fair 2024 will be held from 17 to 24 August. This holiday will last eight days and will begin with a performance by fireworks on the city's beaches, from San Andres and La Malagueta, at midnight on friday 16 august. The sábado 17, the traditional Pilgrimage to the Santuario de la Victoria, which goes through the historic centre. The procession will include the flag bearer (in charge of carrying the flag of the capital), members of the municipal corporation, the associative fabric of Malaga and verdiales bands. On the same night, the people of Malaga will be able to attend the opening speech of the Malaga Fair and the lighting of the lighting in the Real Cortijo de Torres. The festival will culminate on Saturday 24 August.
Official programme of the Malaga Fair
The Official Programme of the Malaga Fair 2023 reflects the open and festive character of the city. Here are some of the highlights of this vibrant celebration:
- City of Malaga Harness Competition and Exhibition:
- DateFriday 4 August at 20:00 h.
- DescriptionAbout 30 carriages from all over AndalusiaThe event will take place in the Plaza de Toros La Malagueta, an opportunity to admire the elegance of equestrian harnesses!
- Lighting Show with Drones:
- DateFriday 11 August at 23:50 h.
- Location: Port of Malaga.
- Drone Light ShowA fascinating light show with drones illuminating the night sky.
- Pyromusical Show:
- DateSaturday 12 August at 24:00 h.
- LocationAccess road to the Cruise Terminal.
- Mediterranean Pyrotechnics: An impressive fireworks display synchronised to music.
- Pilgrimage to the Basilica-Sanctuary of St. Mary of Victory:
- DateSaturday 12 August.
- ItineraryFrom Malaga Town Hall to the Sanctuary.
- DescriptionA traditional procession through the historic centre, with carriages, horses and pilgrims. The Municipal Band of Malaga will accompany the event.
- Animation in Plazas of the Historic Centre:
- Constitution SquarePerformances by Carlos Bravo and Davinia Escalona & Sonia Berbe.
- Plaza Las FloresVarious musical entertainment.
- Bishop's Square: Mr. Proper.
- San Pedro Alcántara SquareMore varied musical entertainment.
- Marqués de Larios StreetVerdiales Festival with Panda Moclinejo and Panda Juvenil de Álora.
- Folklore Popular Malagueño StageChoir and dance academy performances.
- Flamenco in Feria:
- DateSaturday 12 August at 14:00 h.
- LocationPeña Juan Breva (C/ Ramón Franquelo, 4).
- ArtistsPepe de Campillos (vocals) and Gabriel Cabrera (guitar).
- Inauguration of the Artistic Lighting:
- DateSaturday 12 August at 22:00 h.
- LocationAvenida de las Malagueñas.
- Malaga Municipal BandHe will accompany the ceremony.
- Equestrian Passion“ Show”:
- DateSaturday 12 August at 21:30 h.
- Location: Equestrian Exhibition Centre (C/ Antonio Rodríguez Sánchez, 39).
- Children's Show “The Journey of Tam Tam and Yiya”.”:
- DateSaturday 12 August at 21:30 h.
- Location: Municipal Children's Theatre Indigo Theatre.
- Proclamation of the Festivities:
- DateSaturday 12 August at 22:00 h.
- LocationAvenida de las Malagueñas.
- Town crierAlberto Díaz Ortiz.
What activities take place during the Malaga Fair?
During the Malaga Fair, a series of festive and cultural activities take place that reflect the joy and tradition of the region. Here are some of the activities you can expect:
- FireworksThe fair starts with a spectacular fireworks display on the evening of 16 August.
- PilgrimageA traditional procession to the Santuario de la Victoria takes place on the first day of the fair.
- Day FairIn the centre of Malaga, you can enjoy live music, dancing, and taste the local gastronomy in the many stalls and bars.
- Night FairThe Cortijo de Torres fairground is transformed with stalls offering musical performances, dances and typical food.
- ConcertsConcerts of various musical genres are programmed for the entertainment of all attendees.
- Activities for ChildrenThe Magic Fair is a space dedicated to the little ones with games and children's entertainment.
- BoothsThere is a wide variety of stands at the fairgrounds, each with its own atmosphere and culinary offerings.
What is the typical dish I should try during the fair?
During the Malaga Fair, there is a wide variety of typical dishes that you can try and enjoy. Here are some of the highlights:
- PaellaIt is a very popular dish at the fair, and many casetas offer it for tasting.
- Fried fish of various kinds‘A classic that transports you to the coast of Malaga with anchovies, octopus, squid and more.
- CrumbsThis dish is very typical of Malaga and is not usually found at other fairs.
- Ham and cheese plattersFor those who prefer a quick and delicious snack.
- SerranitoA fresh and very "malagueño" sandwich that is perfect for the festive atmosphere.
What is the typical Malaga dessert that I should try?
During your visit to Malaga, there are several typical desserts that you should definitely try to enjoy the authentic Malaga pastries:
- Tagus budsA simple but delicious sweet from Ronda, made mainly from eggs and sugar.
- Algarrobo CakeA traditional cake from the province, made with sugar, cinnamon, matalahúga, flour, extra virgin olive oil and almonds.
- Cortijo BreadA sweet that highlights the simplicity and richness of the basic ingredients such as almonds, sugar, eggs and spices.
- PestiñosA popular dessert during Carnival, Easter and Christmas, made with flour, citrus peel, cinnamon and aniseed.
- BorrachuelosFor lovers of angel hair, this dessert is filled with this delicacy and is typical of Alhaurín el Grande.
These are just some of the delicious desserts you can find in Malaga, so be sure to try them and immerse yourself in the sweet tradition of the region!
Sources consulted:
