Residents of Málaga Criticise That the Feria del Centro Has Lost Its Identity

Several residents of Málaga lament that the Feria del Centro no longer retains its essence, with less atmosphere and reduced hours, while the Real del Cortijo de Torres gains prominence.

The Feria de Málaga in the Historic Centre is experiencing a debate among residents: many believe it has lost its identity. Fabiola Sarmiento is one of the critical voices and asserts that the atmosphere during these days resembles an ordinary weekend:

“The Feria del Centro has nothing to do with those held in the past.”

She adds that the streets are practically empty and that the true tradition is found in the Real del Cortijo de Torres.

For her, the urban celebration “is dead” and she demands that the essence return to the historic centre. Juan Diego Vivar, another resident, recalls that the Centre was a strategic location due to its proximity and public transport connections. However, he believes that the Cortijo de Torres venue has improved so much that each year the Calle Larios fair loses more of its charm:

“Every year, the essence of the reference fair is lost a little more, becoming one without spark or grace. Nowadays, it’s like any other city.”

Not all residents see it so negatively. Aurora Marín prefers the Real for its atmosphere and freshness, but values the company above the location:

“I like the Real more, fresher, with more fair atmosphere. For a few years now, the Centre isn’t what it used to be, but if I have to go to be with my friends, I go.”

Marta Durán agrees and misses the street concerts of yesteryear:

“In the past, there were more concerts in the street, more atmosphere... Therefore, now, it’s really like taking a quiet stroll. I remember that before, at every corner, there were people playing and dancing music in the street, you don’t see that anymore.”

Sonia Gutiérrez, on the other hand, defends that the Feria del Centro retains its essence:

“Although it has changed over the years, the essence of the authentic Feria de Málaga is still maintained.”

However, she admits that the time limit is a problem because it pushes people to go to the Real:

“The time limit makes it so that, for example, people prefer to go directly to the Real because they know there isn’t one like in the Centre, which limits a lot and completely cuts the vibe.”

The Feria del Centro is held every August in the streets of the old town, with pandas de verdiales, booths, and a festive atmosphere. The Real del Cortijo de Torres, on the other hand, concentrates the majority of booths and attractions, with a wider schedule. The opinions of the residents reflect a growing polarization between those who prefer urban tradition and those who opt for the fairground.