Málaga Fair 2026 will have two festive days: Saturday, August 15, and Wednesday, August 19. One is of national significance and the other exclusively local, both with a deep historical background.
The countdown to Málaga Fair 2026 is reaching its final stretch. This year, the people of Málaga will enjoy two public holidays during the main week: Saturday, August 15, and Wednesday, August 19. Two dates that, although separated by just four days, have very different origins and meanings.
August 15 is a public holiday throughout Spain due to the Assumption of the Virgin, one of the eight non-replaceable national holidays in the work calendar. Its celebration coincides with the start of the Day and Night Fair in Málaga, making the day a magnet for visitors.
In contrast, August 19 is a holiday exclusively local. It commemorates the entry of the Catholic Monarchs in 1487 and the incorporation of the city into the Crown of Castile, a milestone that is at the very origin of Málaga's major festivals. This distinction underscores the historical roots of the celebration.
The Málaga Fair has its roots in the Municipal Council of 1491, when the start of popular celebrations was set for August 15. Since then, the venue has changed several times: it began at the Muelle de Heredia, moved to the Paseo del Parque and Teatinos, and eventually consolidated in the Historic Centre and the Real Cortijo de Torres.
Schedule for Saturday, August 15
The festive day begins at 10:00 hours with a gathering at the Paseo del Parque for the Pilgrimage to the Basilica Sanctuary of Santa María de la Victoria, where a floral offering is made to the Patroness.
From 12:00 to 18:00 hours, the Day Fair offers live music in the central squares, verdiales groups in Calle Larios, and the Magical Fair for children in Plaza de la Merced. In the evening, the Real Cortijo de Torres hosts the official proclamation at 21:00 hours, followed by the lighting of the entrance arch, equestrian displays, and the first concerts at the Municipal Auditorium.
Schedule for Wednesday, August 19
The historical day has its central moment with the Civic Procession, which transports the replica of the banner of the Catholic Monarchs from the Town Hall to the Cathedral, accompanied by a floral offering.
From 13:00 to 18:00 hours, the central squares will host concerts of pop, rock, and flamenco, while Calle Larios fills again with verdiales. In the evening, the bullfighting festivities in La Malagueta and equestrian displays in the Real lead to the Grand Gala at the Municipal Auditorium, featuring free concerts by Nancys Rubias and Hoffman as the grand finale.
The festive atmosphere kicks off on the first Friday with the Historical Parade, where over 200 performers in period costumes reenact the royal entry and the handing over of keys. At midnight, La Malagueta beach transforms into a pyromusical spectacle with drones projecting images.
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