The Malaga Fair, also known as the August Fair, is a very famous 8-day festival in Andalusia. It is organized every year in the city of southern Spain and brings together thousands of participants, tourists and visitors. This fair is unique and stands out for the division of its celebration areas. It is often said that there is "a night fair" and "a day fair". To know everything about this national and regional event, read on!
Let's start with a bit of history about this festival in the Andalusian province. The origin of the August Festival dates back to August 19, 1487. This day symbolizes the capture of the city by the Catholic Monarchs, as well as its official incorporation into the Crown of Castile. In other words, it was on that day that Malaga entered the kingdom of Spain. A City Council was formed and the members decided to organize an annual festival to commemorate the city's entry into the Crown. In 1491 the first festival was held and in 1492, they decided to start the celebrations each year on Saint Louis Day, August 19. That same year, there was a procession and a bullfight.
Over the years, activities were diversified with fireworks and celebrating mass and sermon.
Today, the festival brings together thousands of people: tourists, locals, visitors and artists. August is one of the most touristy months on the Costa del Sol. That is why the streets and squares are very crowded every year on these dates.
You should know that this fair stands out for the division of its party areas in the city. You will discover two different parties: the day fair and the night fair. The day fair is held mainly in the historic center of the city, while the night fair is held at the Cortijo de Torres. Although we have to distinguish these two areas so that you understand the tradition, today, the party is still alive in the center at night, so don't worry!
The August festivities generally last about 8 days. Therefore, they are divided into several performances in the program to fully enjoy and be able to choose what you want most. It begins with the inauguration and then several major events stand out. First, the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Victory, then the city center fair and the Royal Fair.
The inauguration of the Malaga festivities is always held at night, on the Friday before August 19. As a visitor, we recommend you go to the Malagueta beaches to listen to the opening speech and enjoy a wonderful fireworks show. This is how the fair begins!
The next morning, the first Saturday, the Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Victories is organized. On the Central Walk of the Park, you will find pilgrims, horsemen, carts and carriages to see the start of the pilgrimage.
After noon, the entire city center will be filled with people to celebrate and party. Enjoy the bars, restaurants, wines, beers and don't forget the delicious tapas in this area! You can see bullfights, music concerts, flamenco and much more.
The night fair is located at the Cortijo de Torres, in another part of the city. It stands out for its mechanical attractions and fairgrounds for children and adults. There are lights and colors everywhere! You can also taste typical foods at various stalls and booths.
Nothing better than resting in a comfortable bed after a day of partying, right? B&B Hotels offers you the opportunity to stay in a hotel in Malaga city center. You can enjoy various services such as free high-speed Wi-Fi, breakfast buffet, free coffee and tea, and a 24-hour reception. Are you in?