Real Feria de Agosto en Antequera

Introduction and local significance

La Real Feria de Agosto en Antequera is a festive event celebrated in the Málaga town of Antequera, in Andalusia. This edition is confirmed to take place from 19 to 23 August 2026. It holds the official recognition of Fiesta de Interés Turístico Autonómico (Festival of Regional Tourist Interest) and stands out for maintaining a broad programme of events in the municipality throughout the month of August.

Historical origins and tradition

The origins of La Real Feria de Agosto en Antequera date back to 1748. In that year, King Fernando VI granted the town the privilege of holding this annual event with the initial purpose of boosting trade, the buying and selling of goods, and the livestock market, following a request by the Antequera town council initiated in 1740. During the 19th century, the fair evolved, losing its commercial content to expand its leisure profile, a period during which the new bullring was inaugurated. After its celebration was interrupted during the Civil War, the fair resumed in 1939 and by 1875 it had already established itself as a benchmark of the Restoration period.

Among the most prominent traditions are the Romería del Señor de la Verónica (Pilgrimage of the Lord of the Veronica), which kicks off with a rociera mass followed by a procession, and the holding of bullfights in the Plaza de Toros (Bullring). Likewise, the opening proclamation takes place at the Palacio de los Remedios, delivered by an illustrious figure. Specific competitions are also held to showcase traditional attire.

Programme and main events

The official programme of La Real Feria de Agosto en Antequera takes place at various key points in the municipality. The list of main events confirmed for this edition includes the following:

• 19 August: Inauguration of the Feria de Día (Day Fair) at the Paseo Real.
• 19 August: Opening proclamation, appointment of the Regidora (Female Councillor) and switching on of the illuminations.
• 21 August: National Porra Antequerana Competition and Flamenco and Short Dress Competition at the Paseo Real.
• 22 August: National Porra Antequerana Competition and Flamenco and Short Dress Competition at the Paseo Real.

Traditional festival food

The most prominent culinary product of this celebration is the porra antequerana (a thick cold tomato and bread soup). This traditional dish acts as the gastronomic protagonist of the festivity, to the point of having its own National Porra Antequerana Competition held during the festive days at the Paseo Real.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To enjoy the events without setbacks, it is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the dates of the festival. It is possible to stay overnight in the municipality itself or choose nearby towns, which makes it easier to follow the scheduled evening events. On days with the highest influx of the public, it is preferable to use public transport or leave your vehicle parked outside the town centre. Due to possible last-minute changes, it is recommended to consult the official programme before travelling to the venues.