Marbella Fair

Marbella Fair (Feria)

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Across Spain there are hundreds of different fairs (or ferias) and events which take place at various times during the year, all of which have slightly different local themes, and activities. What’s always the same though is the colourful and welcoming nature of each fair on the Costa del Sol. And none is more colourful than the Marbella Fair in Andalucia, otherwise known as the festival of San Bernabe Feria, which takes place during the second week of June. 

San Bernabe is the patron saint of Marbella. Today, Marbella feria is a festival of giving, in terms of music, dance, food and drink. Flamenco reigns supreme as do the traditionally dressed women and girls who sing and dance like their lives depended on it! There is also a huge parade through the streets of the famous Old Town, with huge floats carried shoulder high by scores of men, while the crowds gather and admire.

Another feature of the Marbella Fair are the marquees (or casetas) which are erected by locals, where traditional Andalucian food like fried fish and other special BBQ treats. Each day of the Marbella fair sees fireworks let off into the sky, even though it’s daylight! Usually, it signifies the moment that the religious procession is on its way. The downtown festivities begin early (around 9am) and continue well into the night. There will also normally be a show of horsemanship at Marbella fair, by men dressed in traditional costume atop well-groomed and decorated horses. The whole fair then culminates with the final day of the fiesta, and a huge colourful procession. In all, the Marbella Fair is quite a spectacle. Be prepared for big crowds and big food! As a visitor, there’s no need to dress formally or in flamenco dresses, but an effort is always appreciated, and is usually more fun!