Spain Events and Festivals

8/01/2009 - 8/31/2009Malaga Summer Fair (Feria)

The fiery people of Malaga choose the hottest month of the year for their liveliest street party, a 10-day extravaganza of flamenco and 'fino' (dry sherry) commemorating the Christian victory over the Moors in 1487. An explosive opener is provided in the form of a firework display, best seen from the port area, followed by a day of parading in the streets. Flamenco is the dress code, and the local version of the dance is performed in streets and squares of the centre, providing a diversion from the ample opportunities to eat and drink. The streets at the centre of the festivities are decorated with paper lanterns and flags, and all cars are barred, though there is no shortage of thoroughbred horses with haughty riders. Meanwhile, in the fairground at the edge of town, different organisations have set up their 'casetas' or marquees, where the partying goes on in to the early hours amid ear-splitting music, funfairs, nightclubs and raucous merrymaking. The feria is one of the biggest in Europe and attracts millions of visitors each year.