One of the best times to visit the towns of Malaga is when they are celebrating one of their traditional festivities. In December, many of them celebrate events relating to their cuisine and the arrival of Christmas. A wonderful opportunity to visit any of them, learn about their traditions, try their typical dishes and enjoy a different experience. Take note!
The Purple Carrot Festival
The purple carrot is one of the most unique types of produce in the province of Malaga. It is characterised by its colour and exotic flavour and is only grown in Cuevas Bajas. The town celebrates a festivity in which visitors can try the typical local cuisine and different dishes made using this produce.
What to see: The 18th century Church of San Juan Bautista is one of the most noteworthy monuments in Cuevas Bajas. We also recommend a stroll around the countryside of the Genil river as it runs through the town.
When: 3 and 4 December
Pastoral Carol Contest in Macharaviaya
The Pastoral Carol Contest is held in honour of the birth of one of the most illustrious sons of Macharaviaya, the writer Salvador Rueda. On the day, groups come from throughout the province to sing villancicos (Spanish carols) accompanied by traditional instruments.
What to see: Machariaviaya is the town where Bernardo de Gálvez was born, a general who played an important role in US independence. If you visit the town, don't miss the Gálvez Museum and the house where Salvador Rueda was born.
When: 6 December
Chacina Cured Meats Fair in Benaoján
Benaoján is a tiny village located in the Sierra of Grazalema. It celebrates its chacina cured meats fair during the first weekend of December, where you can taste exquisitely handmade produce from Serranía de Ronda.
What to see: We recommend a visit to the La Pileta Cave and its strange cave paintings or an outing to the El Gato Cave, one of the most interesting for speleology.
When: 9 and 10 December
Colmenar Festival of Mosto Wine and Chacina
Colmenar is known for the quality and variety of its meat produce. In December, it holds the Festival of Mosto Wine and Chacina, where you can try cured meats and sausages and typical wines from the area.
What to see: This village is considered the capital of Montes de Malaga. We recommend a visit to the Honey Museum, another type of produce that is traditionally made locally.
When: 10 December
Festival of the Virgin de los Rondeles in Casarabonela
One of the strangest festivities to be held this month is the Festival of the Virgin of the Rondeles. For one night, the town's streets are lit up with old wicker baskets while the Virgin de los Rondeles is carried around. The procession is accompanied by villancicos (Spanish carols) sung by the town’s pastoral choir.
What to see: Casarabonela is a charming, typical white town. One of the strangest visits is to the Mora i Bravard Botanical Garden, which houses over 2,000 species of cactus.
When: 12 December
Torrox Migas Festival
The locals from Torrox come together to prepare, hand out and taste dishes made using migas (breadcrumbs). They are accompanied by the traditional arriera salad and local wines. Of course, there is a fair share of music and dancing during the day.
What to see: Torrox is believed to have the best weather in Europe. Its nearby lighthouse and Roman ruins are two essential visits.
When: 17 December
