The fact that you are now thinking about experiencing the Málaga Fair 2026 is partly thanks to the Catholic Monarchs. Yes, the August Fair, as it is also known, commemorates the monarchs’ reconquest of the city and its incorporation into the Crown of Castile on 19 August 1487. This is a fair whose history stretches back centuries. With that in mind, you can probably imagine that Málaga knows exactly how to put on a celebration, that you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to having fun and that you will need a compass to navigate so many plans and recommendations. Here, we lend you ours so you can make the most of this year’s event, taking place from 15 to 22 August.

In Málaga, the Fair is celebrated both by day and by night. The daytime festivities take place in the historic city centre. Between 12 noon and 6 pm, Calle Larios becomes the heart of this huge celebration, which gradually spreads through the surrounding streets and squares. You will not want to miss the Calle Larios entrance arch, featuring a couple dressed in traditional flamenco outfits. You will be dazzled by the lanterns decorating the streets, listen to verdiales music, dance along with the brass bands, catch every concert you can and find out what is happening inside the marquees. And, of course, you will raise a glass of Cartojal, a sweet wine served refreshingly cold.

The Night Fair takes place at the Real del Cortijo de Torres. Located at the city’s fairground, this vast space is filled for an entire week with marquees, stalls, rides and an extensive programme of entertainment. The traditional lighting of its entrance arch is one of the highlights, along with music of every kind playing from the different marquees. The nearby Municipal Auditorium also hosts a selection of concerts that are well worth keeping an eye on. The Night Fair usually continues until 6 or 7 in the morning. One important thing to know is that you do not have to wait until sunset to explore its marquees, as they are usually open from 2 pm.

At the Málaga Fair, tapas and sharing plates take centre stage. They are tasty and ideal for keeping your energy levels up, without the heaviness of larger dishes that are not particularly tempting in the summer heat. During the festivities, you will move from plates of ham and cheese to Spanish omelette. You will sample fried aubergines with sugar cane honey and gazpachuelo, a traditional Málaga soup. Naturally, there will also be anchovies in vinegar, salads and Russian salad. Ask where you can get your catavinos, the small wine-tasting cup worn around the neck that should never be without a refreshing sip of wine. And when you finally make your way back to bed, whether late at night or as the first rays of sunlight appear, look out for some churros or fritters.

Whether you are heading to Málaga’s historic centre to enjoy the Day Fair or travelling to Cortijo de Torres, the best option is to use public transport. Buses are particularly convenient, as the Municipal Transport Company increases its regular services during the festivities. And should you prefer a taxi, you will be pleased to know that the taxi ranks at the Real de la Feria are usually open 24 hours a day. The city also has two metro lines, while Victoria Kent commuter railway station, served by trains connecting Málaga with nearby towns, is located close to the fairground.

There is a lot to see and do at the Málaga Fair. To make sure nothing gets in the way of enjoying the experience, keep a few simple tips in mind: comfortable footwear, cool clothing, a cap, hat or sunhat, a fan, sun cream and plenty of hydration. Whether you choose water or Cartojal, we recommend drinking the latter in moderation.

And, of course, make sure you arrive with your accommodation already booked. This is not something to leave to chance. In fact, not just any hotel will do. After days like these, your body will be crying out for a ten-out-of-ten rest, ideally somewhere centrally located where peace and quiet are non-negotiable. In other words, exactly what you will find at our Sercotel Rosaleda Málaga and Sercotel Tribuna Málaga.