In the month of July we invite you to enjoy the seafaring festivities in Malaga, as it is one of the most important popular events in the Andalusian city and also a very authentic way to discover the deepest spirit of the people of Malaga. Are you planning a getaway to the city? Read on to learn more about this festival!
We would like to point out that this kind of celebrations in Malaga are deeply rooted among the population of the city due to the deep connection it has with the traditions. This fact makes that every year attracts many more tourists. To get 100% enjoyment, we have a wide range of premises for Lockers for backpacks in Málaga for you to leave all your belongings.
What is the origin of the marine festivities in Malaga? When and where are they celebrated?
The celebration of this festival dates back to the eighteenth century, since it was from that time when the devotion to the Virgen del Carmen spread among the Andalusian fishermen. Therefore, the central act consists of carrying the image of the Virgin in a boat surrounded by flowers and accompanied by dozens of other boats, very similar to a procession, but of a seafaring type.
Every year it is celebrated on July 16, however, there are some neighborhoods and districts of the city where this event extends over several days with numerous activities, both before and after.
It is also important to keep in mind that there is no specific area or neighborhood where they are celebrated before enjoying the seafood festivities in Malaga . Most of the coastal neighborhoods with fishing tradition have their own brotherhood, procession and popular celebration. The best known are: El Palo, Pedregalejo, Huelin, El Perchel or La Malagueta.
To move around the different neighborhoods, we advise you to use the Malaga Metro or the city buses that run through the city.
If you come alone for the day, at LOCK & enjoy! we recommend that you take a short route through the different neighborhoods to get to know more about this exciting festival. Very close to the train station, you have Lockers in María ZambranoYou can also pick up your things whenever you want, since it is possible to book by the hour. On the other hand, if you come by bus, you can opt for the Lockers at Alameda Principal..
What to do during the seafood festivities in Malaga?
The only thing you need to enjoy one of the most important festivals in the Andalusian city is desire, comfortable shoes and good company. Ready?
Booths, festivals and concerts
Concerts and open-air dances, as well as the fairground booths are a must at any party in Andalusia. Head to Plaza Padre Ciganda (El Palo), Parque Huelin or Plaza de la Milagrosa to enjoy the magnificent festive atmosphere, both during the day and at night.
There is live music, especially by local groups, as well as popular dances and contests for both adults and children. Also, every night the squares we have mentioned are the epicenter of the night party, as orchestras and DJs of all kinds come together to liven up the nights. On the other hand, theme nights have also been organized in previous years.
Processions
The maritime and terrestrial processions are among the most beautiful and impressive activities of the seafaring festivities due to their religious and artistic character.
We recommend the one organized in El Palo, which starts from the Parish of Nuestra Señora de las Angustias to the Dedo beach. Also, the one that goes from the Parish of San Patricio to San Andrés beach in Huelin.
Note that when the image of the Virgin arrives at the beach after being carried on the shoulders by land, she gets into a decorated jábega (small traditional fishing boat) and accompanied by other similar boats to make the procession through the sea. It is a spectacle in which thousands of people gather between songs and fireworks.
Competitions
The seine is one of the protagonists in honor of the fishing tradition of the city. For this reason, a regatta is held every year on the beach of San Andrés in Huelin.
It is curious to contemplate this race, since this type of boats are already practically in disuse and, in addition, have no engine, therefore, the duration of the race and the end is very exciting for the physical effort made by the participants.
On the other hand, on the beach of El Palo, other sports competitions are also organized, such as beach soccer, petanque or sack races. Both children and adults can participate in these competitions, favoring the neighborhood coexistence and reinforcing the traditional spirit that permeates the vast majority of activities in honor of the Virgen del Carmen.
Popular gastronomy
After an intense morning of activities, we recommend you a tapas route through Malaga.
You can also take advantage of the numerous chiringuitos and peñas (beach bars) along the promenades of El Palo and Pedregalejo, as it is also a good opportunity to taste the Andalusian gastronomy. During the seafood festivals in Malaga, espetos, paella and pescaíto frito are prepared and, in addition, seafood cooking contests are organized with popular tastings and prizes for the best tapas.
Seafood markets
Shopping can not be missing during these days either. For this reason, in the Paseo Marítimo de Huelin and in the surroundings of the Parque del Oeste popular markets are organized, but with a marine touch.
Stroll through the craft stalls and enjoy the exhibitions that are also organized (old photos, fishing nets workshops, etc.).
It is a quieter plan, but also culturally enriching.
Come and enjoy the seafood festivities in Malaga! We are waiting for you at LOCK & enjoy!
