Estepona's promenade will host the XI edition of the World Ham Contest 'Popi' from August 7 to 16, featuring 65 exhibitors and free concerts every night. The event expects to surpass 500,000 visitors.
Estepona is preparing to host a new edition of its major summer gastronomic event. The World Ham Contest 'Popi' Ciudad de Estepona will celebrate its eleventh edition from August 7 to 16 on the promenade, with the participation of 65 exhibitors showcasing the best from both national and international larders.
The provincial deputy and Estepona City Council councillor, Salomé Hidalgo, and the ham cutter and event organiser, José María Téllez 'Popi', presented the programme for an event that has established itself as one of the major gastronomic showcases on the Costa del Sol. The contest has been declared Event of Tourist Interest in Andalusia since 2023.
For ten days, Estepona's promenade will transform into a large outdoor space over a kilometre long, where visitors can explore various gastronomic, commercial, and leisure offerings. The selection includes freshly sliced ham, pork products, cheeses, artisanal breads, wines, and other agri-food creations, with consumptions priced at a popular five euros.
A dozen producers affiliated with the 'Sabor a Málaga' brand will be present at the contest to showcase the richness of the provincial larder, featuring products such as chestnut ham, goat cheeses, cold cuts, and Málaga wines. According to Salomé Hidalgo, this participation "supports our businesses, strengthens the marketing of their products, and highlights the work of the province's producers."
The contest, which attracts over 500,000 people each year, will also help boost commercial, hospitality, and tourist activity in Estepona during the summer season. "The high attendance demonstrates its ability to attract visitors and generate economic activity," the deputy highlighted.
Free Music Every Night
The Estepona event includes a free musical programme under the Jamón Festival Music banner, featuring a total of ten concerts, one each night. The event will once again be hosted by Canal Sur presenter Eva Ruiz.
The musical agenda kicks off on Friday, August 7, with Bordón 4 and continues with Justito a Tiempo (Saturday 8), Nolasco (Sunday 9), Henry Méndez (Monday 10), La Frontera (Tuesday 11), Melón Diesel (Wednesday 12), Piratas Flamencos (Thursday 13), Burning (Friday 14), Dani Márquez and Long Play (Saturday 15), and Malamanera (Sunday 16).
For residents and visitors of the Costa del Sol, the contest offers an opportunity to enjoy gastronomy and music in a privileged setting. The event, organised by the Estepona City Council, the Provincial Council of Málaga, and 'Popi Jamones', will remain open for ten days in the afternoon and evening, with free access.

