The Spanish summer feria and fiesta season is about to burst into action! This is the perfect time of year to dive head first into Spanish culture and embrace local celebrations. Spanish fiestas symbolise the essence of Spain and its people. They are colourful, loud, thrilling and always great fun. Andalucia is particularly proud of its fiesta heritage. There is no shortage of occasions to explore throughout the region. On the Costa del Sol the streets come alive with music, dancing, gastronomy, entertainment, and fun fairs. You will find something to enjoy for all age groups.
Feri-a-musing
Feria, as you may have guessed, means fair. They are usually a week-long event celebrated at a different time of year for each city or town. They range from small village street parties, where everyone knows everyone through to huge cultural events, attracting visitors from all over the world. The local fiesta is the moment when a town or village show cases their culture, identity and tradition. Not only for themselves but also for those who come from afar to admire and enjoy. Regardless of size, it’s impossible not to be absorbed by the atmosphere that throbs through the streets. It’s the ideal way to integrate on a social and cultural level.
By Day
During the day, the celebrations usually take place in the streets of the town itself. Roads are closed to traffic, decorations strung throughout the towns and music plays from every corner. Tables and chairs are set up along the streets and food and drink is served at every glance. There are parades, floats and processions. Competitions and awards for the children. Games, theatre, song and dance. With many businesses closing for the afternoons, its the opportunity for the whole community to get together and catch up.
By Night
At night, the Feria shifts to the town’s fairground site or ‘recinto ferial.’ These sites, found in most towns are designed specifically to host the occasion. The temperatures are cooler at night but the energy is hot. Stepping through the imposing tiled Feria archway, you will find brightly lit boulevards, which meander through the feria site. The air throbs with a carnival like atmosphere. Fun-fairs are constructed, alongside ‘casetas’ (tents) and food stalls which are rented to local businesses and restaurants for attractions and entertainment. Music can range from live traditional Spanish guitar and flamenco, to the latest summer club beats. There are no entrance restrictions or fees. Anyone can enter the feria and take part in the festivities.
Every day throughout the year there are fiestas taking place somewhere in Spain, either at a local, regional or national level. We have compiled the dates and locations to watch out for on the Costa del Sol. Take the plunge and fiesta this summer on the Costa del Sol. There is no better excuse to have a good time!
Marbella
Feria of the Patron Saint Bernabe
Festivities in Marbella kick off on the 5th of June. Daytime activities and celebrations can be found in the historic old town, a beautiful backdrop for any celebration. There are competitions, workshops, dances and fireworks. The action continues later in the evening at the Marbella Recinto Ferial. Here you will find fun fairs, bars and nightlife until the wee hours of the morning
When: 5th – 11th June
Where- Recinto Ferial Marbella, next to La Canada Commercial Centre
Festival of San Juan
The Night of San Juan is held to mark the summer solstice. Celebrating both the longest day and the shortest night of the year. It’s a magical celebration usually held on the beach with roaring bonfires, lanterns, fireworks, food, drink, and friends. It is a memorable, almost surreal scene and one that must not be missed!
When- 23rd June
Where- Beaches up and down the Costa del Sol
Estepona
Feria of the Patron Saint Virgen del Carmen
Estepona hosts two fairs during the year, but the July feria offers one of the biggest fun fairs of all the summer! Estepona is very much a town of heritage and tradition. You will be greeted with folklore performances, processions, floats and parades. Celebrate with the locals in Estepona, for an authentic feria experience.
When: 4th – 9th July 2017
Where: Recinto Ferial Estepona, Exit 155 Autovia A7
Malaga
The biggest and best of all the Ferias on the coast. Avenida del Marqués de Larios dresses up for the occasion with thousands of garlands. It’s an explosion of light colour and happiness. One of the most traditional shows is the parade of thousands of horsemen. The horses and their riders are intricately decorated with colours and flowers. The night feria is set up in the open air with over 200 marquees, great for eating, drinking and shopping. With the cooler evening temperatures, entertainment runs long into the night. The firework displays are impressive and magical.
When: 12th – 19th August
Where: Cortijo de Torres
Mijas
Feria of the Patron Saint Virgen de la Peña
The feria is held in and around the Plaza Virgen de la Peña. There is a huge choice of food and drink stalls circling the main square. You´ll see processions of giant heads, street games and a grand finale spectacular firework display.This is a great time to visit the magical village and see the fusion of traditional culture and modern entertainment.
When: 7th – 12th September
Where: Mijas Pueblo Main Square
Torremolinos
Feria of San Miguel
Torremolinos is well known for its party atmosphere year round, and their Patron Saint Fair is no exception. The day Fair begins in the historic centre with free pork stew for all. After the religious pilgrimage and processions, the celebrations kick off with a bang. The line up of events ranges from children’s theatre to Live DJs.
When: 27th – 1st October
Where: Palacio de Congresso Torremolinos
Fuengirola
Feria in honour of the Virgen el Rosario
One of the most important in Andalusia with the horse as the protagonist and the fair goers dressed up in their finest traditional costumes. The celebrations share the date with Spanish National Day, giving even more reason for celebration as the whole country enjoys a bank holiday.
When: 6th – 12th October
Where: Recinto Ferial, C/ José Cubero “El Yiyo”
San Pedro de Alcantara
Celebrating its Patron Saints namesake San Pedro. The Feria is held in the heart of town, alongside the innovative new boulevard. Every style of music is catered for within the ‘casetas’ from Tropical Reggae to ballroom dancing.
When: 14th – 19th October
Wherever you are on the Costa del Sol this summer, you will not be far from a celebration. Make like a local and hit a feria for a fiesta!
The Feria culture is just one of many ways to embrace an enjoyable life in Spain. If you would like to make Spain your home, why not take a look at some property options? There are some fantastic property options available on the Costa del Sol, at very attractive price. Here we have just a selection of what is on offer. Come and see
