Local culture
The July Feria, Carnival, the Quema de los Bigotes or San Isidro: the traditions of Estepona connect visitors with the real soul of the city.
The Fandango Estepona is a local expression of the Malaga verdiales style, preserved as the city's own song and dance. Verdiales groups — bands in colourful costumes and hats — perform it with simple, joyful lyrics that are danced in pairs. The Peña Flamenca de Estepona keeps flamenco alive with competitions regarded as among the finest of their kind. Documented references to flamenco in the city date back to the 18th century.
Comparsas and chirigotas (satirical singing troupes) liven up Estepona's streets during Carnival, with costume contests and performances by carnival groups.
Every April, this event brings together residents of the many nationalities living in Estepona to encourage community life and showcase their cultures.
Every August, the Tourism Department organises events for Tourist Day, designed for visitors and locals to enjoy the day together.
A weekend in March or April filled with cultural, sporting and food events across Estepona's streets. "Estepona vive sus calles" (Estepona Lives Its Streets) is now a fixture on the city's annual calendar.
From the first Tuesday of July through Sunday, Estepona holds its Feria y Fiestas Mayores (main town fair): six days and six nights of street celebrations.
Every August, the Cancelada neighbourhood holds its own festival, with activities and concerts for all ages.
Estepona dresses its streets in traditional Christmas lights. The town council organises a programme of cultural and festive events for all audiences during this period.
Between 23 and 24 June, local associations burn "júas" on bonfires: effigies satirising well-known local and national figures.
On 15 May, Estepona holds the procession of San Isidro Labrador, its patron saint, with participants dressed in traditional countryside costume. A Fiesta of Tourist Interest of Andalusia since 2009.
Photo: Estepona Town Council
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