Your guide to Malaga Feria

Wednesday, 11 August 2010 12:34

Written by Editor

The first ever Feria held in Málaga was round about 1486,  to celebrate the re-conquering of the city. Basically, the Catholics managed to throw out the Moslems and this was seen as a huge triumph. Therefore, every year this event is celebrated in the form of the Málaga Feria.So, what to expect!

There are many ferias throughout the region, but the one held in Málaga is by far the biggest and the best and attracts around 6 million visitors. This year the feria has one day less and will run from August 13th to the 21st  in a bid to save the town hall money.

The feria will start with the opening speech at La Malagueta beach at ten to midnight, given by, followed by a firework display at midnight and the concert of Miguel Bose (picture right), which expects to attract 50,000 people starting at twenty five past midnight. Also during the day and into the evening you can visit the Casetas (marquees) where you will find the horsemen and women (Jinetes) of Andalucia.

They are dressed in traditional costume and also the horses are dressed traditionally. Mind you, if you see them late in the day you might find them a bit wobbly!! All the horses have to be off the feria by 8pm due to animal welfare, so best to see them during the afternoon. Whilst at the casetas you will be able to buy food and see traditional dancing and music of various types ranging from Sevillanas, Rumbas, Fandango, Popular music, Cuban/Salsa plus Verdiales, which are unique folk dances from the various villages in Andalucia.

Parking is plentiful around the feria ground and in the town - just follow the parking signs. The Port can take 30,000 cars and this year an additional 11,000 spaces have been made available around Málaga…so there should be room for everyone. There are special buses laid on operating all day and night from the town centre to the casetas, thus allowing you to get about.