Free concerts, giant waterslides, and paella hit Cancelada for the annual fair

A local tradition returns this August to Cancelada celebrating all things Spanish culture. Organisers have confirmed an extraordinary lineup featuring legendary musical acts, free giant paella, and family entertainment running from August 20 to 23rd.

Opening night celebrations and local tributes

To start the 4 days, official festivities launch on Thursday, August 20 at 9pm in Plaza de la Juventud. Local businessman Emilio Rodriguez Ruiz will deliver the opening speech. Then live performances by singer Juanjo Alcantara and flamenco dancer Ana Guerrero immediately follow. Ceremonial ribbon cutting and the switching on of the fairground lights take place at 10:30, leading you perfectly into live dance music from Orquesta Metropolis and the midnight opening of the Youth Marquee.

Entertainment each day, giant waterslides, and free paella

Children can look forward to enjoying the thrill of a 50-metre water slide, inflatable road safety circuit, and free bouncy castles starting Friday afternoon, as well as live pop-rock covers by Los Calvin. Local seniors gather at 7pm for a traditional tea party honouring resident Petra Sevilla Rueda. Spanish pop trio Las Soles headlines the Friday night main stage at midnight.

Saturday cools down visitors with a foam and water party at the Free Wave Sports Centre, followed by a massive delicious free paella feast prepared by master chef Raul Postigo at 3pm in Plaza Jose Vazquez Espinosa.

Rocio mass and 80s agropop grand finale

Sunday morning is all about traditional Andalucian rhythm, starting at 10:30am with a Rocio Mass honouring the Virgen del Purisimo Corazon de Maria. Local women will carry the sacred statue through the streets accompanied by the Veracruz Musical Group. Equestrian fans can head to Calle Montemayor at 12:30pm for the 3rd “Andalucian Attire” competition, paying tribute to legendary horse breeder Francisco Tineo Vazquez.

Closing out the weekend with a bang, the Official Fairground Marquee hosts a dedicated 80s night. Agropop pioneers No Me Pises Que Llevo Chanclas take the stage at 10:30pm, followed by tribute act Sotano Sur at 12:30am to end the festivities with classic pop anthems.

For four days of fun, flamenco, food and festivities, go along to the Cancelada feria. For more information visit the Estepona Town Hall website.