On the 12th of October, Spain celebrates its National Holiday and the province of Malaga adds to the event, among others, two very unique fairs: Feria del Ganado of Villanueva de Tapias and Feria de la Mula de Arenas. Being deeply rooted in the popular culture, these two festivities are full of authenticity and you will be able to feel the essence of rural Malaga through them. Tradition, music, food and, above all, the farm animals that they are dedicated to, are the main ingredients of both fairs.
A fair with almost 150 years of history
Villanueva de Tapia is a village in the North Eastern region of Malaga (Nororma) that retains the charm of the countryside, with whitewashed houses and eighteenth-century facades. The origins of its Real Feria de Ganado (Cattle Fair) date back to 1869. It is celebrated between 10 and 12 October and brings together cattle dealers from throughout Andalusia, but also curious onlookers and visitors from everywhere. Besides, in the so-called Feria Grande there is also room for culture, entertainment and cuisine.
The traditional cattle market is the place where vendors display their best specimens and buyers close deals with a handshake. If you come with children, they will love seeing the animals upclose.
The program of this particular event also includes street parties, live music and dancing, medieval horse races, a gastronomic competition about suckling lamb (specialty of the local cuisine) and even a food fair. Make sure you try the typical products of the area, such as the exquisite handmade sausages.
A tribute to the peasant tradition
Another unique appointment of autumn in Malaga is the Feria de la Mula. It takes place in Arenas every 12 October and provides the opportunity to learn about ancient peasant customs. Arenas is a town of white houses included in the Mudejar Route of the Axarquia region. The ruins of Bentomiz Castle, the minaret of the church of Santa Catalina Martir and the Arab fountain of Daimalos will make you relive the fascinating past of these lands.
During the Feria de la Mula you can meet all kinds of activities related to rural life, such as, the art of lowering, the fitting of animals, threshing exhibitions or even donkey, horse and mule races.
After the election of the “arriero de honor”, you can enjoy a tasting of migas (a fantastic dish made of bread braised with varied fried accompaniment) and some muscat wine (an extraordinary sweet wine land). This party is not lacking flamenco and the performances of verdiales, typical folklore music of the province of Malaga.
