The International Villages Fair in is one of the most interesting events on the Costa del Sol leisure calendar. An unbeatable opportunity to learn about the culture and customs of the multiple nationalities residing in the municipality of Málaga.
The first Villages Fair in Fuengirola took place in 1994. Ever since, it has been held each year between April and May at the municipality’s Fair Centre, becoming one of the most traditional events in Fuengirola. A space located in the town centre, very near the commuter train station and the interurban bus terminal. It also has parking for those who prefer to arrive by car.
So, come on down and enjoy FIP Fuengirola.
An extensive and varied programme of activities
Entry to the International Villages Fair is free and allows you to enjoy an extensive and varied programme of activities.
Firstly, there is an official programme put together by the Town hall. It includes different activities for sharing gastronomy, folklore, customs and music from the different countries and Spanish regions participating in the event.
Secondly, each participating nation and region puts together the programme of activities that will be taking place at their booths.
You will also be able to enjoy the exhibition and sale of traditional products from each participating country and region.
At the fair centre entrance, right in front of the booths, there are usually attractions for little ones, as well as a space for the International Sample Fair.
Visit over 33 countries without leaving Fuengirola
The FIP is an annual invitation to visit over 33 countries without leaving Fuengirola, and to learn about the culture and customs of several Spanish regions.
There are always more countries than Spanish regions represented at FIP.
Among the many countries that have taken part in FIP Fuengirola since 1994 are United States, Australia, Peru, Cuba, Germany, Mexico, India, Hawaii, Finland, Norway, Italy, Japan, and many more.
The Spanish regions that have been present at this multicultural event include Navarra, Canarias, Castilla-León, Asturias and, of course, Andalusia.
Things to do and see at FIP Fuengirola
The international journey through FIP Fuengirola includes numerous fun activities and multicultural coexistence among families, friends and visitors. The many things you can do and see during this festival include:
- Taste the multiple flavours of the traditional cuisine of each participating country and Spanish region. From dishes of the most exotic and furthest away countries to the Spanish regions that take part in the fair. An exquisite tasting of international and national gastronomy.
- Watch the multicultural parade, in which all the delegations at each edition of FIP take part. You will enjoy seeing the eye-catching and colourful traditional dress of each region.
- Attend the different performances of traditional dance that take place throughout the five days of the Fair.
- Enjoy the numerous musical concerts of native groups that come to Fuengirola for this event. Live music in a multicultural and festive atmosphere.
- Buy traditional products from each place. Without leaving Fuengirola, you can acquire numerous items made in far-off countries and regions.
- Learn first-hand about the culture, customs and way of life of each village taking part at the fair.
- Experience the festival in the company of people from other countries and Spanish regions. You will need hours to tour all the booths at the centre and to enjoy the daily performances of each one.
- Enjoy a festive, cosmopolitan and multicultural environment.
Fuengirola Town Hall puts together the official FIP programme and the Fair Centre layout with the location of the booths of the countries and regions that take part at each edition.
OFFICIAL 2025 FIP FUENGIROLA PROGRAMME
The International Fair of Countries in Fuengirola, formerly known as the Fair of the Peoples, returns on Wednesday, April 30 with an inaugural parade through the streets of Fuengirola. This edition will conclude on Sunday, May 4th, 2025.
The fair will be open continuously from 1:00 PM until 4:00 AM. However, this year, on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, the music in the booths will stop at 2:00 AM to allow the residents to rest.
FIP PROGRAM 2025
FIP – cortesía de www.fipfuengirola.com
Wednesday, 30th April
• 12:00 – Opening of the International Trade Fair “FIM”
• 13:00 – Opening of Stands
• 03:30 – Music off, lights on
• 04:00 – Closing of Stands
Thursday, 1st May
• 11:30 – Grand parade of participating folk groups
• 12:00 – Opening of the International Trade Fair “FIM”
• 13:00 – Opening of Stands
• 02:00 – Music off, lights on
• 04:00 – Closing of Stands
Friday, 2nd May
• 12:00 – Opening of the International Trade Fair “FIM”
• 13:00 – Opening of Stands
• 03:30 – Music off, lights on
• 04:00 – Closing of Stands
Saturday, 3rd May
• 12:00 – Opening of the International Trade Fair “FIM”
• 13:00 – Opening of Stands
• 03:30 – Music off, lights on
• 04:00 – Closing of Stands
Sunday, 4th May
• 12:00 – Opening of the International Trade Fair “FIM”
• 13:00 – Opening of Stands
• 03:30 – Music off, lights on
• 04:00 – Closing of Stands
Each day, you can enjoy gastronomy, crafts, and live folk performances by various groups at their stands and in the Fairground. Free entry.
FIP – cortesía de www.fipfuengirola.com
Countries Represented
Germany, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Spain, United States, Great Britain, Greece, Hawaii, Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Morocco, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Romania, Senegal, Turkey, Uruguay, Ukraine, Venezuela.
Tips and recommendations
FIP – cortesía de www.fipfuengirola.com
1. Basic Information
Dates: From 30 April to 4 May 2025
Location: Recinto Ferial de Fuengirola
Opening Hours:
- Caseta opening hours: From 13:00 to 04:00
- Live music: Until 02:00 (to respect local residents’ rest)
- Opening parade: 11:30 on the first day of the fair
2. How to Get There and Move Around
By car:
- If you decide to drive, it is recommended to arrive early to find parking.
- You can use public parking areas nearby or private car parks in the area.
By train:
- The C-1 Cercanías Renfe line connects Málaga with Fuengirola, with stops in Torremolinos, Benalmádena, and the airport.
- Fuengirola train station is just a few minutes’ walk from the fairground.
By bus:
- Several bus routes connect Fuengirola with Málaga and other towns along the Costa del Sol.
On foot:
- If you are staying in Fuengirola, it is recommended to walk to the fairground to avoid traffic and parking issues.
3. What to See and Do
Opening parade:
- Don’t miss the vibrant parade featuring traditional costumes and dances on the first day.
Country pavilions:
- Each participating country has a pavilion where you can enjoy its cuisine, music, and crafts.
- Some of the most popular countries include Argentina, Mexico, Morocco, India, and Japan.
International gastronomy:
- Try typical dishes from different parts of the world, from Japanese sushi to Argentine empanadas.
Shows and concerts:
- Live performances featuring traditional and folk music.
- Typical dances such as flamenco, African dances, or Colombian cumbia.
Attractions and activities:
- Fairground area with attractions for children and adults.
- Exhibitions of handicrafts and souvenirs from various countries.
4. Practical Tips
Comfortable clothing and footwear:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot around the fairground.
- Dress in light clothing, but bring a jacket for the evening.
Hydration and sun protection:
- Temperatures can be high in spring, so stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Use sun protection if you plan to spend a long time outdoors.
Cash and card payments:
- Some pavilions accept card payments, but it is advisable to carry cash for small purchases.
Avoid peak hours:
- If you prefer a less crowded experience, visit the fair during early hours.
- Friday and Saturday nights tend to be the busiest.
Take care of your belongings:
- Due to the large number of visitors, keep your personal items secure.
Capture the experience:
- Don’t forget your camera or mobile phone to take pictures of the traditional costumes and performances.
5. Useful Information
- Security: There is police presence and emergency personnel on site.
- Accessibility: The venue is accessible for people with reduced mobility.
- Official information: Check the Fuengirola Town Hall website for the latest programme updates.
Visit Fuengirola. guide of things to see and do in this location of the Costa del Sol
WHERE TO STAY
El Fuerte Marbella
Fuerte Hoteles is always the best option to stay in Andalusia, get to know its cities and rest. The hotel chain offers establishments where you can enjoy, besides its services, the best each of the region’s destinations has to offer. Its more than 50 years of experience are the best guarantee and an exceptional starting point of any experience you wish to have.