World Ham Contest "Popi, Ciudad de Estepona"
The World Ham Contest "Popi, Ciudad de Estepona" brings together every August more than 65 exhibitors, 200 professional ham cutters and free concerts on the seafront promenade. Declared an Event of Tourist Interest in Andalusia.
Every August, Estepona's seafront promenade hosts the World Ham Contest "Popi, Ciudad de Estepona", one of the most important food events on the Costa del Sol.
The event brings together exhibitors, professional ham cutters, tastings of Iberian ham and Andalusian products, and free concerts every night. The 2025 edition featured 65 exhibitors and more than 200 professional ham cutters, with attendance expected to exceed 500,000 visits.
The event is declared a Festival and Event of Tourist Interest in Andalusia, and is one of the most popular summer plans in Estepona for locals and visitors.
One of the most important gastronomic events on the Andalusian coast. The World Ham Contest turns Estepona's seafront promenade into a tasting, cultural and music venue during several August evenings.
Before you go
7–16 August 2026 — dates confirmed by Estepona Town Hall.
Key facts
Confirmed dates
7–16 August 2026
Location
Seafront promenade
Approximate hours
7pm – 2am
Type
Food and music
Status
Confirmed
The event
A major food event by the sea
The World Ham Contest "Popi, Ciudad de Estepona" celebrates one of Spain's most iconic gastronomic products: Iberian ham. For several summer evenings, the seafront promenade becomes a festive food space with exhibitors, professional ham cutters, tastings, Andalusian products and free concerts.
What you'll find
Iberian ham and local food products
Live professional ham cutting
Exhibitors and tastings
Free concerts every night
Seafront atmosphere
Family-friendly summer event
Estepona seafront promenade
Event of tourist interest in Andalusia
By the numbers
A well-established event
Figures from recent editions show the importance of this event within Estepona's food and summer calendar.
65
Exhibitors — 2025 edition
+200
Professional ham cutters
+500K
Expected visitors
7pm–2am
Reference opening hours
Free
Concerts every night
Andalusia
Event of tourist interest
Figures from recent editions published by Estepona Town Hall. The 2026 edition details will be updated once confirmed.
Location
The seafront promenade as the setting
The event is traditionally held on Estepona's seafront promenade, an open-air setting by the sea, perfect for walking, informal dining, live music and enjoying the summer atmosphere.
Get directions to the promenadePaseo Marítimo · Estepona
By the sea
Estepona's seafront promenade is an open-air space by the sea, easily accessible from the town centre and the beaches.
Night atmosphere
Ham, music and summer nights
Alongside the food experience, the event usually includes free concerts every night. Recent editions have featured artists and bands from different styles, turning the seafront promenade into one of Estepona's liveliest summer spots.
Practical information
Confirmed dates
7–16 August 2026
Location
Estepona seafront promenade
Approximate opening hours
7pm – 2am
Entry
Access to the event area is usually free. Exact conditions for 2026 will be confirmed with the official programme.
What to expect
Iberian ham, pork products, cheeses, artisan breads, local food, professional ham cutters, concerts and a summer evening atmosphere
Ideal for
Families, visitors, residents, food lovers and travellers looking for evening plans in August
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the World Ham Contest Popi Estepona
When is the World Ham Contest "Popi, Ciudad de Estepona" 2026?
Where does it take place?
What are the opening hours?
What can visitors expect?
Is it free to attend?
Will there be concerts?
The year in Estepona
More festivals and traditions
Cancelada Village Festival
Every August, the Cancelada neighbourhood celebrates its own local festival with activities, concerts and entertainment for all ages.
See eventVirgen de los Remedios Procession
On 15 August, the Brotherhood of Santa María de los Remedios carries Estepona's historic patron saint in procession through the streets of the historic centre.
See eventTourists' Day
During August, Estepona's Tourism Department organises special events to welcome summer visitors — activities designed for both tourists and local residents.
See eventPlan your visit
Not sure where to start?
Want to make the most of your trip to this event? Tell us your plan and we'll fit in a beach, a route or a restaurant nearby.