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Estepona is preparing for its biggest celebration of the year, with fireworks, flamencos and manzanilla flowing freely. Here’s what to expect from the Feria y Fiestas Mayores, which runs between Tuesday, 7th July and Sunday, 12th July.
What is Estepona’s Feria y Fiestas mayores?
Feria y Fiestas Mayores (the townwide street party fair) is divided into two parts. Daytime, bars and pop-up tents fill the streets with music, dancing and fun. Nighttime brings the excitement to the fairground. There are rides, food stalls, and live entertainment until early morning.
Where is the action and when?
This year, the fair takes place from Tuesday 7th July to Sunday 12th July. It is six days of fun and celebration. The fairground hosts the majority of the evening entertainment, while the town centre and Avenida Jaime Carlos host the opening ceremonies and parades. The horse shows and bullfights, as well as the closing events of the fair, are held on the Paseo de Caballos and Estepona’s Plaza de Toros.
Mega opening night
A colourful procession of “giants” and “big-heads”, made out of papier-mache figures, is led by a brass ensemble. This year, the parade starts from Colegio de la Serna around 8pm. The evening begins with the official opening. This is followed by the lighting up of the fairground, a fireworks show, and live music and dancing performances.
Free concerts throughout the week
Performers bringing the music to your ears over the six days include tribute act Numero Uno, Joana Jimenez, Kiko Peña and Paco Candela, with resident house band Orquesta Roma playing most evenings.
Children’s Day for Families
The fair’s second day, Wednesday, is Children’s Day. Fairground rides will be discounted, and there will be a special children’s event with magic shows and entertainment at the Town Hall in the early evening.
Horses and carriages in Andalucian Tradition
On Fridays and Saturdays, the Paseo de Caballos is host to daily horse parades. Horse-drawn carriages are also available for free, giving visitors an authentic taste of Andalucia. On Sunday, the competition to judge the best-dressed Andalucian horses and riders takes place.
The event will close with a bullfight and paella
Two traditional rituals close the fair on Sunday. The fair closes on Sunday with two traditional rituals.
Attending the Feria: Practical Tips
Anyone attending should be aware that the noise levels at the fairgrounds can be high, especially during the evenings. Civil Protection, located at the fair entrance, offers free ear protectors to those who are sensitive to loud noise. The entrance to the fairground is free, as well as the marquee of the Town Hall. The parking around the festival fills up quickly, once evening sessions start. Walking, cycling, or booking a taxi are all recommended.
The Estepona Town Council website has the complete programme, including timings and other details.
