La Máxima, the youth meeting point that defines the nights of the Málaga Fair

The area in front of the FYCMA, known as 'La Máxima', has become the epicentre of the Fair nights for thousands of young people, who gather every day before entering the casetas of the Real del Cortijo de Torres.

The Málaga Fair is approaching its final stretch, and with it, the area in front of the FYCMA has once again proven why it is the essential starting point for much of the young audience. What is officially called the Youth Zone has been renamed by its visitors as “La Máxima”, or simply “the botellón”, and every night it brings together hundreds of people looking for a relaxed atmosphere before jumping into the 120 public casetas of the Real del Cortijo de Torres.

The routine repeats every day: arrive, meet under the entrance arch, walk until finding a spot, leave bags on the ground, and start sharing drinks and conversation while music plays. “You never know who you might run into”, explains a young man, who highlights that in this space “there's a chance you might see your cousin or a friend from ages ago”.

The appeal of this area knows no borders. Three girls from Almería claim to have come specifically to experience it: “We heard about this place, and we didn't want to miss out on living this experience.” They add that “there's nothing like this in other cities”, which makes this corner of the Fair a phenomenon that transcends the capital.

Not everything is praise. A young man with glasses points out that “the worst part is the crowd and the number of people”, and several attendees agree that, despite the fun, “it gets very hot” in the area. Nevertheless, the overall balance is positive, and the zone has carved out its own niche within the big week.

The presence of minors is one of the most concerning issues. A young woman from Málaga shares that “La Máxima allows me to enjoy time with my brother. He is younger, but we are so close in age that we love having fun together.” Her brother, aged 17, clarifies: “Above all, we are responsible. We want to enjoy but with care”.

With the Fair about to say goodbye until next year, the area in front of the FYCMA will continue to be the prelude to the party for those who want to extend the day until dawn, already looking forward to the next edition.