All you can want to know about Benalmádena

CARNIVAL

Benalmádena comes alive during Carnival in February, featuring lively performances of satirical "letrillas" and "chirigotas." The festivities kick off with the Drag Queen Gala, attracting participants from across Spain. With deep-rooted traditions, the celebration culminates in the vibrant "Gran Desfile de Carnaval" and the whimsical "Entierro de la Lagartija."

SAINT PATRICK´S DAY

During this traditional Irish celebration, activities and festivities take place in Irish pubs, and generally, the Irish community and anyone who wants to join in dance and have fun near the area of Parque de la Paloma. The official day of the celebration is March 19th and 20th, although in some years it has been held on the 18th of the same month.

EASTER

During Holy Week, Benalmádena showcases vibrant popular religiosity, attracting thousands eager to experience local traditions. The brotherhoods organize numerous processions, notably the silent procession of the Virgen de la Soledad on Good Friday. A highlight is "El Paso," a theatrical reenactment of Jesus Christ's passion, enriching the festive atmosphere.

SEAFOOD FAIR

The Seafood Fair in Benalmádena is a must-visit event for seafood lovers, attracting thousands each year. Held in a vibrant 500-square-meter marquee at Puerto Marina, it features delicious local seafood and Malaga wines at great prices. The lively atmosphere and participation from various restaurateurs make it a highlight of the tourist season.

FLAMENCO FESTIVAL

The Benalmádena Flamenco Guitar Fest is a newly created festival, which debuted in 2018, and aims to become the benchmark for flamenco guitar in Málaga and the Costa del Sol. This new flamenco festival changes the traditional format of a single night into a series of several performances between spring and summer.

CORPUS CHRISTI

At the end of May or early June, Benalmádena celebrates Corpus Christi with stunning flower carpets made from 70,000 flower stalks. Locals meticulously create these carpets for the procession of "La Custodia," filling the old town with floral aromas. This vibrant tradition attracts visitors globally and is highly photographed.

VIRGEN DEL CARMEN

Every July 16, Benalmádena celebrates "La Virgen del Carmen," the patron saint of sailors. The event features a procession where divers retrieve her image from the sea, followed by a maritime celebration. Locals honor her with fervor, making this tradition a cherished part of the community's maritime heritage and culture.

GOLF COMPETTIONS

Throughout the year we organize all kinds of opens and collaborative competitions with different golf associations. 

Amateur golfers with a valid federation license, of any nationality and of both genders.

Players with an exact handicap of up to 36 can participate, with the slope limited to 24 for men and 30 for women.

Foreign players need to submit a current handicap certificate from their country of residence along with their registration.

ROMERIA de San Juan

Every third Sunday in June, the Romería pilgrimage departs from San Juan in Arroyo de la Miel to Benamaina Sur. Celebrated on the night of June 23-24, families gather around beach bonfires. The festivities continue with the Feria de San Juan from June 24-29, featuring music, dancing, and local events.

THEATRE & MUSICALS

From July 1st to September 6th, the Summer Festival takes place in Benalmádena, where we can enjoy an extensive program of theatre, music, and outdoor cinema for all audiences at the Municipal Auditorium in Parque de la Paloma.

ARAB SOUK

At the end of August, Benalmádena Pueblo hosts its Arab Souk, transforming the town with candlelit streets adorned with fabrics and stalls offering various Arab products. The event features interactive parades, workshops, and live music, celebrating the town's historical roots while providing a lively atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

VIRGEN DE LA CRUZ FAIR

In August, Benalmádena celebrates the Virgen de la Cruz, its Patron Saint, with fervent devotion and cultural events. On August 15, locals enjoy decorated streets filled with incense as they participate in processions. The festivities culminate in a magical evening at Plaza de España, featuring singing, flares, and traditional dancing.

MUSICAL FESTIVAL

BENALFEST

Benalfest, held in Benalmádena, captures the indie spirit with performances from renowned artists like Izal and Amaral. Set against stunning coastal views at Recinto Ferial los Nadales, the festival showcases a vibrant atmosphere. It celebrates both local talent and national acts, making it a key event for music lovers on the Costa del Sol.

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 

FICCAB

Every November, the Benalmádena International Short Film and Alternative Film Festival revives the legacy of the former Semana Internacional del Cine de Autor. The festival attracts notable figures, showcasing films and hosting conferences at the Casa de la Cultura, making it a vibrant cultural event that engages the entire community.

MEXICAN ALTAR OF DEAD 

Around November 1, Benalmádena Pueblo Museum hosts a Mexican Altar of the Dead to honor artist Felipe Orlando. The celebration features a lively Parade of Catrinas and Calaveras, music, and dance, reflecting the joyful Mexican tradition of remembering the deceased. The event promotes cultural awareness and engages the community.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 

The International Christmas Festival in Benalmádena, held mid-December, transforms Plaza de la Mezquita into a vibrant celebration with food stalls from various countries. Highlights include a visit from Santa Claus and children's entertainment. The festival grows annually, showcasing global Christmas traditions and creating a festive atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.