Fairs & Festivals on The Costa del Sol April 2026

Fairs & Festivals on the Costa del Sol in April

April is one of the most interesting months for festivals on the Costa del Sol, with Semana Santa (Holy Week) often being the main event. Towns and cities including Málaga, Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Benalmádena and Marbella hold spectacular religious processions, with thousands of people gathering to watch historic brotherhoods, impressive floats and marching bands pass through the streets.

As spring arrives, the Costa del Sol also begins its programme of outdoor events, with food festivals, cultural celebrations and local fiestas taking place across the coast and inland villages.

Whether you are interested in traditional Spanish culture, local food or simply experiencing the atmosphere of a Spanish celebration, April is a great month to discover a different side of the Costa del Sol.

International Fair, Fuengirola. What to expect watch this video

International Fair of the Countries (FIP) – Fuengirola

The International Fair of the Countries (Feria Internacional de los Países - FIP) is one of the Costa del Sol's largest and most popular annual events. Usually held over five days, starting on the last Thursday or Friday of April and continuing into early May, the fair transforms Fuengirola's Fairground into a celebration of cultures from around the world.

More than 30 countries take part, each with its own pavilion (caseta) showcasing authentic food, drinks, music, dancing and traditions. It's a unique opportunity to sample cuisine from every corner of the world while enjoying live entertainment and experiencing different cultures without leaving the Costa del Sol.

One of the highlights of the event is the International Parade, usually held on the Saturday. Hundreds of performers dressed in traditional national costumes parade through the streets of Fuengirola alongside decorated floats, musicians and dancers before arriving at the Fairground. It is one of the most colourful spectacles of the year and attracts thousands of spectators.

The fairgrounds come alive every day from midday until around 4:00 am, with continuous live performances, international music and dancing. Whether you're looking to enjoy authentic food, watch traditional performances or simply soak up the lively atmosphere, the International Fair is an event not to be missed.

What to Expect

More than 30 countries represented with their own themed pavilions.
Authentic international food and drink.
Traditional music, dancing and cultural performances throughout the day and evening.
The colourful International Parade featuring performers in national dress.
A fantastic family-friendly atmosphere during the day, becoming livelier into the evening.

Visitor Tips

Visit more than once if possible, as it's impossible to experience every country's pavilion in a single visit.
Arrive early for the International Parade to secure a good viewing position.
Wear comfortable footwear, as you'll be doing plenty of walking around the fairground.
Public transport is recommended, as parking is limited and the event attracts large crowds.

Good to Know

Usually Held: Last Thursday or Friday of April (continuing into early May)
Location: Fuengirola Fairground (Recinto Ferial)
Parade: Usually held on the Saturday, starting around 12:00 noon
Opening Hours: Approximately 12:00 noon until 4:00 am each day
Entry: Free
Suitable For: Families, couples, food lovers and anyone wanting to experience cultures from around the world.

Bajada en Bañador – Sierra Nevada

The Bajada en Bañador (Swimsuit Ski Descent) is one of the most unusual and entertaining events in southern Spain. Held each year towards the end of the ski season, usually in April, hundreds of skiers and snowboarders take to the slopes wearing nothing more than swimsuits, bikinis, fancy dress and other fun outfits to celebrate the arrival of spring.

The event takes place at the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, near Granada, and has become a popular tradition marking the final weeks of the winter season. Participants gather in colourful costumes before skiing together down one of the beginner slopes, creating a spectacular and light-hearted atmosphere that attracts spectators, photographers and television crews from across Spain.

Although the event is all about having fun, it is organised in a safe environment, with participants required to wear their skis or snowboards and follow the instructions of resort staff. Many skiers continue the celebrations afterwards with live music, entertainment and spring events taking place around the resort.

What to Expect

Hundreds of skiers and snowboarders dressed in swimsuits and fancy dress.
A fun-filled group ski descent celebrating the arrival of spring.
Live music and entertainment around the resort.
A fantastic atmosphere and great photography opportunities.
One of the Sierra Nevada ski season’s most popular annual events.

Visitor Tips

Wrap up warmly if you’re spectating – despite the swimwear, temperatures can still be close to freezing.
Arrive early to get a good viewing position near the start of the descent.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen, as the mountain sun can be surprisingly strong.
If you’re skiing yourself, book equipment and accommodation in advance, as the event is very popular.

Good to Know

Usually Held: April (towards the end of the ski season)
Location: Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, Granada Province
Entry: Free to watch (normal lift passes apply if skiing)
Suitable For: Families, skiers, snowboarders, photographers and anyone looking for a unique day out.

Koningsdag (King's Day) – Torremolinos

Koningsdag (King's Day) is a unique Dutch celebration held every year in La Carihuela, Torremolinos, bringing a little piece of the Netherlands to the Costa del Sol. Although it is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrating the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, the large Dutch community living in and around Torremolinos continues the tradition by organising one of the liveliest international festivals on the coast.

The event transforms La Carihuela into a sea of orange, the traditional colour of the Dutch royal family, with thousands of visitors joining the celebrations. The festival features live music, entertainment, street markets and stalls selling traditional Dutch food, drinks and products.

Koningsdag is a fantastic example of the international community that makes Torremolinos so special. What began as a celebration for the Dutch community has grown into a popular event attracting both locals and tourists who come to experience the friendly atmosphere, Dutch traditions and colourful celebrations.

What to Expect

A sea of orange clothing and decorations throughout La Carihuela.
Traditional Dutch food, drinks and products.
Street markets with Dutch specialities and souvenirs.
Live music and entertainment.
A lively atmosphere celebrating Dutch culture on the Costa del Sol.

Visitor Tips

Wear something orange to join in with the celebrations.
Arrive early, as La Carihuela becomes very busy during the event.
Take time to explore the promenade and traditional fishing quarter while visiting.
Public transport is recommended, as parking around La Carihuela can be difficult during major events.

Good to Know

Usually Held: 27th April (King's Day in the Netherlands)
Location: La Carihuela, Torremolinos
Time: Approximately 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Entry: Free
Suitable For: Families, couples, Dutch visitors and anyone wanting to experience a unique international celebration.

Did You Know?

The colour orange is central to King's Day because it represents the House of Orange-Nassau, the Dutch royal family. Across the Netherlands millions of people dress in orange for the celebrations, and the tradition continues thousands of kilometres away in Torremolinos.

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