Until August 22, Calle Larios hosts performances by verdiales pandas from the three styles, featuring groups from Almogía, Los Montes, and Comares.
The Feria de Málaga 2026 has become the perfect stage these days to showcase verdiales, a musical genre with rural roots that remains very much alive in the province. From August 15 to August 22, Marqués de Larios Street hosts performances each afternoon by different pandas, who come down from the villages of Los Montes to display their art to locals and visitors.
The programme includes groups from the three recognised styles: Almogía, Los Montes, and Comares. Each has its own identity, but they all share a similar formation: one violin, two guitars, one pandero, two pairs of castanets, and occasionally, a lute.
The role of the mayor is key in each panda. They lead the group with a stick adorned with coloured ribbons, marking the beginning and end of each piece and choosing the singer. Leading the way is the flag bearer, who carries a flag of Spain, Andalucía, or the village's patron saint while dancing to the music.
The origin of this tradition is lost in time, but it is associated with the paths, inns, and wineries of inland Málaga. The lyrics, true to Andalusian folklore, speak of love, life in the countryside, and the concerns of the people. It is music that is passed down from generation to generation, keeping the identity of the province alive.
This year, the audience is responding with enthusiasm. On August 20, several women from Almogía came to the capital to see one of the dancers perform, who is the daughter of one of them. The pandas start from the entrance of the Feria and gradually make their way up Larios, followed by dozens of people who eagerly record the moment or cheer with olés at the end of each performance.
The initiative aims to highlight one of the most unique cultural expressions of the province, in such an emblematic setting as the city's grand fair. Those who wish to enjoy the verdiales still have several days ahead, always starting from 8:00 PM on Calle Larios, with free access until the street's capacity is reached.
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