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What is the Feria del Boquerón?
Held every September, the Anchovy Festival in Rincón de la Victoria is the flagship event of Rincón de la Victoria, a charming coastal town just a 20-minute drive east from Málaga city. For several days, the town sheds its usual calm demeanor and erupts into a massive celebration centered around honoring the boquerón victoriano.
This isn’t just about eating fish; it’s a holistic cultural experience. The festival celebrates the entire chain of this local treasure—from the fishermen who brave the waves to catch them, to the skilled artisans who clean and prepare them, and finally, to the chefs and families who transform them into culinary works of art.
Rincón de la Victoria has a long and rich fishing history. For generations, the local economy and daily life have been intertwined with the Mediterranean. The anchovy caught here, specifically the boquerón, is renowned for its quality—firm, flavorful, and perfect for frying.
Indeed, over the six days of the festivities, over 1,000kg of anchovies will be served (for free) alongside live cooking shows, talks, music performances and children’s activities.
1. The Food: The Undisputed Star
You come here to eat, and you will not leave disappointed.
Boquerones Fritos (Fried Anchovies): The main event. Fresh anchovies are lightly dusted in flour and sea salt, then deep-fried in olive oil to crispy, golden perfection. They are served by the half-ración or full ración, always with a wedge of lemon. The trick is to eat them whole—head, tail, and all—for an explosive crunch and burst of flavor.
Naturally, there are competitions where chefs from both Spain and abroad compete to create the most spectacular dishes, with the anchovy as the centerpiece.
Cookery demonstrations are held each evening.
During a Fiesta hotels will be very busy.
It is always best to make a reservation well in advance.
Look for a hotel with a Free Cancellation rate to secure your reservation now!
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How to get to Rincón de la Victoria for the festival.
Navigating the transport options from the bustling resorts to the west of Málaga to Rincón is easier than you might think. Here’s a breakdown of your best options, depending on where you’re starting your journey.
Option 1: The Train (Tren de Cercanías) – The Highly Recommended Choice
For most visitors, the local commuter train is the absolute best way to travel. It’s affordable, reliable, and you avoid any traffic or parking stress.
Line: You need Cercanías Málaga Line C1.
Destination Station: The final stop for the festival is Rincón de la Victoria. (Note: Some trains terminate at the station before, La Cala del Moral, which is also within walking distance of the festival area. Just check the train’s destination display. Either station works!).
From Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, and Mijas Costa:
This is the simplest route. Simply find your nearest Cercanías train station (e.g., Torremolinos, Benálmadena, Fuengirola).
Take any eastbound Line C1 train heading towards Málaga Centro-Alameda and Málaga María Zambrano.
Do not get off in Málaga! Stay on the train as it continues its journey east from Málaga María Zambrano station. The next stops will be Victoria Kent, La Cala del Moral, and finally Rincón de la Victoria.
The total journey from Fuengirola to Rincón de la Victoria takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
From Marbella, Puerto Banús, and Estepona:
You first need to get to a train station. The easiest way is to take a direct bus to Málaga’s main bus station or train station.
Bus to Train: From Marbella, take the M-220 bus (operated by Avanza) which terminates at Málaga María Zambrano station (the main train and bus hub). The journey takes about 45-60 minutes. From there, simply walk into the train station and get on the Line C1 train heading towards Rincón de la Victoria (as above).
Alternative: Direct Bus (longer journey): You could also take the M-220 or similar bus to Málaga’s main bus station and then switch to a local bus (like the EMT M-110) heading to Rincón de la Victoria. This is less direct than the train and can be subject to traffic.
Why the train is best: It runs frequently (every 20-30 minutes), is cheap (a few euros each way), and drops you right in the heart of Rincón, a short walk from the festival action. You can also enjoy stunning coastal views on the journey east from Málaga.
Option 2: Driving Yourself
Driving gives you flexibility but comes with one huge caveat: parking.
The Route: From the western resorts (Torremolinos, Benalmádena), you’ll take the A-7 motorway east towards Málaga and then continue past the airport and through the tunnels towards Rincón de la Victoria. The drive from Torremolinos without traffic is about 30-40 minutes.
The Major Challenge: Parking. During the festival, the town is packed. Street parking is virtually impossible. Your best bet is to head for a large public car park (aparcamiento público) on the outskirts of town and walk in. Look for signs. Be prepared to pay and potentially queue.
Migas Day in Torrox
Migas Day in Torrox is a vibrant celebration that captures the essence of Spanish culture and community spirit. This annual fiesta transforms the charming streets of Torrox into a lively hub filled with music, dance, and migas, lots and lots of migas! Residents and visitors alike come together to honour this humble dish, and the atmosphere buzzes with excitement and camaraderie.
Fiestas del Cacharro y la Castaña
Los Cacharros- a Spanish term that translates to ‘junk’ or ‘clutter’ in English. To celebrate San Andrés tin cans and other junk and clutter are dragged through the streets to make as much noise as possible.
Goose Barnacle Festival
Festa do Percebes, a traditional event that celebrates the prized goose barnacle. Are you a fan of seafood and do you enjoy seeking out new culinary experiences? Then this is the festival for you!
Wine Night in Cómpeta
Wine Night in Cómpeta is celebrated on 15 Aug each year. A celebration of the Moscatel variety of wine for which this area is famous. Expect live music, grape stomping, flamenco, fandangos with migas and salad all washed down with lots of wine from the many kegs spread throughout the town centre!
Wine Night in Cómpeta
Wine Night in Cómpeta is celebrated on 15 Aug each year. A celebration of the Moscatel variety of wine for which this area is famous. Expect live music, grape stomping, flamenco, fandangos with migas and salad all washed down with lots of wine from the many kegs spread throughout the town centre!
Holy Week in Granada
Semana Santa, also known as Holy Week, is a significant cultural and religious event celebrated throughout Spain. In Granada, this week-long festival is packed with parades, religious ceremonies, and a lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists alike. The hermandades, or the religious brotherhoods, play a crucial role in organizing and participating in the processions, adding a unique touch to the celebrations. Whether you’re looking to experience the solemnity of the religious traditions or just enjoy the vibrant festivities, the programme of events has something for everyone.
Migas Day in Torrox
Migas Day in Torrox is a vibrant celebration that captures the essence of Spanish culture and community spirit. This annual fiesta transforms the charming streets of Torrox into a lively hub filled with music, dance, and migas, lots and lots of migas! Residents and visitors alike come together to honour this humble dish, and the atmosphere buzzes with excitement and camaraderie.
