Málaga Fair 2025: Everything You Need to Know to Enjoy It to the Fullest

August on the Costa del Sol means sun, sea... and the Málaga Fair! One of Andalusia’s most important festivals returns in 2025 with full force from August 16 to 23. At GR Estates — experts in vacation rentals in Fuengirola and property sales in Málaga — we’ll tell you everything you need to know if you're visiting the city during this time.

Key Dates, Origins, and Identity

The fair commemorates the capture of Málaga by the Catholic Monarchs in 1487, which is why the date is now a local holiday. August 15 and 19 are local holidays, and the fair is held around these dates. In 2025, the fireworks will kick off the celebration on the night of August 15, and the opening speech will take place on August 16, delivered by author Javier Castillo.

The Málaga Fair commemorates the Catholic Monarchs’ entrance into the city on August 19, 1487, a date that has become a local holiday. Each year, the fair begins with a large fireworks display on the night of August 15, followed by the official opening speech and a week full of cultural activities, music, gastronomy, and Andalusian tradition. It’s a must for anyone visiting Málaga in summer!

Two Fairs: Day and Night

One of the big draws of the Málaga Fair is that it offers two different environments for all tastes:

Day Fair (Historic Center)

From 12:00 to 18:00, downtown Málaga becomes an open-air party. Streets like Calle Larios, Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza de la Merced, or Alameda Principal fill up with traditional stalls, verdiales groups, flamenco performers, parades, live music, and an explosion of color.

• Traditional attire: flamenco dresses, Cordovan hats, and flowers in the hair.
• Star drink: local sweet muscat wine, such as the famous Cartojal.
• Typical food: grilled sardine skewers, fried fish, Iberian ham, aged cheeses, and Malaga-style tapas.

Night Fair (Cortijo de Torres)

At the Cortijo de Torres Fairgrounds, just outside the city center, you’ll find the more modern and family-friendly version of the fair: public and private casetas, an amusement area, concerts at the auditorium, and fast-food zones.

• Open from 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
• Free nightly concerts starting at 10:30 p.m.
• Great options for families, teens, and adults seeking a complete experience

Opening Speech, Culture and Shows: More than Just a Party

This year, the opening speech will be delivered by Javier Castillo, a bestselling author from Málaga known for The Snow Girl and The Soul Game. His selection reflects Málaga’s commitment to contemporary culture and local talent. Throughout the week, you can also enjoy:

• Bullfights at La Malagueta bullring, featuring top matadors like Fortes and Morante de la Puebla.
• Live concerts at the Real auditorium and urban stages.
• Traditional flamenco shows in casetas and public squares.
• Cultural activities: historical parades, exhibitions, and craft markets.

On August 19, there will also be a commemorative parade of the Catholic Monarchs’ Reconquest of Málaga, with medieval costumes and historical reenactments.

Activities for Everyone: Sports, Family & Leisure

The Málaga Fair 2025 isn’t just about music and casetas. Its "Fair Sports" program includes activities for all ages, perfect for those looking to balance partying with wellness:

• Fair MLG Night Run on the La Misericordia promenade.
• Sunrise yoga sessions and open-air meditation.
• Regattas and nautical events at the Port of Málaga.
• Intro to pickleball, plus beach volleyball, zumba, and fitness activities.

There will also be children’s workshops, storytelling, puppet shows, and amusement parks for the little ones, both downtown and at El Real.

How to Get Around During the Fair?

Due to high turnout, special transportation services are made available throughout the city:

• Line F (Feria): connects the city center with Cortijo de Torres Fairgrounds 24/7. Price: €2.
• Other reinforced city bus lines: 4, 18, 19, 20, and 22.
• Extended night service: until 6:30 a.m. with special fair tickets (€1.70–€1.95).
• Limited parking: public transport is recommended, or stay in nearby towns like Fuengirola and take the commuter train (Cercanías).

Avoid driving if possible and consider staying in nearby towns such as Fuengirola, well connected by Cercanías line C-1, which takes you to the day fair (last stop Málaga Centro Alameda) and night fair (Victoria Kent stop).

Your Ideal Accommodation with GR Estates

At GR Estates, we offer vacation rentals in Fuengirola and surrounding areas with direct access to Málaga:

• Beachfront apartments
• Houses with private pools
• Penthouses with Mediterranean Sea views
• Custom stays: couples, families, or groups

And if you fall in love with the Malaga lifestyle (as often happens!), we also manage the sale of properties in Fuengirola, Mijas, Marbella, Benalmádena, Estepona, and across the Costa del Sol. Whether you’re investing or relocating, we’re here to help. Check out our latest listings at www.gr-estates.com or contact us directly via WhatsApp.