Passion, colour and noise are the first things to assault the senses as you approach the annual Feria at Fuengirola. The pride of the local people during feria week is wonderful to see – the women showing off their beautiful flamenco dresses as they perch side-saddle behind the elegant horsemen in their red cravattes, sombreros and braces.

Held annually between the 6th and 12th October, this amazing feria is staged in honour of Our Lady, the Virgin of El Rosario, the Patron Saint of Fuengirola.

This is one of the most prestigious events in Andalucia, and the streets of the town, including local bars and restaurants are festooned in flags, banners and bunting to leave the tourists in no doubt that this is feria week. After the initial processions from the Church Square in the centre of town to the fairground, an amazing firework display marks the opening of Fuengirola´s largest and most colourful annual event.

On entering the fairground in the evening, the lights and sounds are incredible. Music booms from every stall and ride, combining excitement and great fun for all ages. There are also 32 peñas, tented structures which are run by private associations, within the feria ground which boast some of Andalucia´s most talented flamenco singers and dancers.

This festival of fun also boasts superb food including such Spanish favourites as pinchitos of pork, gambas, octopus and firm fairground favourites such as candy floss, toffee apples and various stalls of home made fudge and turron. As you would expect in this part of the world, there are plenty of marquees to buy beer and wine, and to enjoy the live music in a comfortable, albeit slightly crazy atmosphere.

There is no such thing as closing time at this event, and many revellers stay at the feria all night, and enjoy an early morning coffee with churros at one of the many local cafes surrounding the fairground.

Every year there is a special Children´s Evening where the younger members of the family can enjoy discounted or free fairground rides before the ´big kids´ arrive after dark!

This really is a time to embrace everything Spanish, enjoy the Carnival Atmosphere and let your hair down. You will definitely come back next year, and if you become a real ´Feria Aficionado´ there are no shortage of similar events along the Coast!!