Feria de Pizarra

Introduction and local significance

The Feria de Pizarra takes place this year from 14 to 18 August 2026 in honour of the Virgen de la Fuensanta, the patron saint of this town in Málaga. This festival stands out for combining religious fervour with major musical performances at the municipal swimming pool area and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. It is well worth a visit for its traditional celebrations, which are declared to be of tourist interest, attracting numerous visitors throughout the month of August.

Historical origins and tradition

The date of the celebration has its origins in the royal charter granting town status (Villazgo) to the municipality by King Ferdinand VII in January 1818, at which time the Virgen de la Fuensanta was named patron saint and the festivities were set for every 15 August. Among its most prominent rituals is the traditional «Bajá» (Descent) of the Virgin from the hermitage, an event declared to be of provincial tourist singularity in which the image is accompanied by the La Lira Musical Association, the Marbella Musical Association, the Zalea and Cerralba Rociero choir, the traditional drummer Emilio Ortigosa, and the «El Tole» horse-riding association. Upon arrival in the town, the Patron Saint is welcomed to the sounds of a panda de verdiales (traditional verdiales folk music band).

The procession on 15 August includes the traditional «Rifa» (Raffle), declared a festival of Andalusian tourist interest and provincial singularity, where attendees buy tickets for the chance to carry the Virgin and replace some of the costaleros (bearer-harness carriers). In addition, the religious events are complemented by the solemn mass and the offering of tuberoses at the parish church of San Pedro Apóstol.

Programme and main events

The central events of the Feria de Pizarra range from the lighting of the fairgrounds and the traditional bell ringing to star concerts at the municipal marquee and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Highlights include the election of the fiesta queen and king, as well as musical performances by artists such as Miguel Campello, Medina Azahara, and Pepe y Vizio. Fireworks displays, musical parades, and events dedicated to children and the elderly also stand out. To check the detailed schedules for each day, you can review the official programme available in the information sheet.

Traditional festival food

During the main days of the fair, attendees can enjoy various gastronomic products distributed at popular events through the streets of the municipality. Among them, the free tasting of embutidos (cured meats) in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento stands out, offered as a courtesy by the Tienda del Pueblo. Likewise, the programme includes an ice cream tasting courtesy of the City Council during the water party held on Calle Málaga.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To attend the events, the main venue is located in the municipal swimming pool area. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance in the town itself or in nearby localities to comfortably follow the evening events. On the days of highest turnout, it is preferable to park outside the centre and use public transport, highlighting the bus service set up for residents of Zalea and Cerralba for the seniors' dinner, departing from 20:00 and returning from 01:00.

Please note that the municipal marquee area prohibits the use of glass and crystal, and the sale of alcohol to minors is forbidden. In addition, on 16 August, coinciding with Children's Day, the attraction area will remain noise-free between 20:00 and 22:00 to facilitate the integration of autistic people.