Charlie Smith
THE Costa del Sol’s biggest feria is back.
Every year thousands visit the Feria de Malaga – a celebration of culture, food, drink and plenty of dancing.
The festival commemorates the incorporation of Malaga to the Crown of Castile by the Catholic Monarchs, who entered the city on August 19, 1487.
This year’s edition promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Whether you’re taking the kids for a day out or looking to party into the night, this Olive Press guide has everything you need to know.
When is it?
The feria was officially declared open last night with an amazing fireworks display on Playa de La Malagueta.
It was opened by Spanish actor Adelfa Calvo, who won the 2018 Goya award for best supporting actress for her role in El autor.
The feria now runs from August 15 all the way through to August 24.
Public holidays are also in place on August 15 and 19, with many shops likely to be shut on these days.
Where is it?
The two usual sites of the city centre and the Cortijo de Torres feria ground are again used this year.
For fairground rides, street food, and dancing, the Cortijo de Torres off Camino de San Rafael hosts the ‘night fair’ which doesn’t close until 6am.
Music and dancing can also be found in Malaga’s historic city centre for the ‘day fair’ with a curfew in place there from 6pm, and plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy in the evening.
Dancing, food and drink
At the Cortijo de Torres revellers will be immersed in traditional flamenco and copla dancing among more than 120 stalls.
This 800,000 square metre site also has the very best on offer for foodies and those looking to quench their thirst after throwing some shapes.
Unlike Sevilla’s feria most of Malaga’s street tents are free entry, making it easier to explore.
What to wear
Designers at the cutting edge of flamenco fashion – at events such as the International Flamenco Fashion Show – have injected new life into the traditional dress this year.
On-trend for 2019 are fitted waists with belts, while ruffles have been seen lower down this year.
Colour experimentation is also in, with mauve, yellow and more fluorescent tones finding their way onto Spanish runways.
If in doubt polka dots are always popular.
Bullfighting
The Plaza de Toros hosts several events in the run-up to August 21, when bullfights with spears will take place.
Tickets are already on sale to see right-handers such as Enrique Ponce, Morante de la Puebla, Manzanares or El Fandi.
How to get there
The city centre and Cortijo de Torres are well-serviced by buses, taxis and the metro.
