Benalmadena Pueblo will transport you to a whole other world for its annual Zoco Arabe

Lanterns, spices and the scent of mint tea will soon fill Benalmadena Pueblo’s streets as the annual Arab souk returns.

Transformation of the town

Benalmadena’s historic quarter will transform into a bustling Arabic souk from Thursday, August 27 to Sunday, August 30 with craft stalls, music and street performances taking over the town. Doors open at 7pm on the Thursday, with activities running from midday through to the early hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Councillor for commerce Raul Campos called it one of the summer’s most eagerly anticipated dates in Benalmadena Pueblo, describing it as a chance to fill the historic centre with life, draw visitors and give local businesses a welcome boost.

Birds of prey demonstration

Falconry lovers can enjoy flights and demonstrations of birds of prey that will take place along the market’s route, backed up by talks explaining more about these magnificent creatures and their role in medieval life.

Youngsters won’t be bored as archery and pottery sessions will run in the area behind the church, while Calle Real hosts henna painting and wood-carving demonstrations led by respected Malaga sculptor Kurt Romero. A dedicated children’s corner, also situated behind the church, offers a free eco-friendly carousel, games tables and a costumed photo spot straight out of another era.

Music and flavours fill the night air

Arabic rhythms will echo through the streets courtesy of Al Folk, whose musicians and belly dancers will parade the route by day. AS the evening gets later, from 10.30pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Plaza de Andalucia turns into an open-air stage for Sephardic music concerts.

Hungry visitors can head to Montebello car park for a taverns area, or wander towards the church for a proper Arab teteria, traditional Moroccan-style tea house and medieval-style food stalls, perfect for sampling everything from spiced pastries to grilled meats.

A trip worth taking

Campos has invited both residents and travellers to wander Benalmadena Pueblo’s streets during the event, describing it as a chance to turn the old town into a meeting point once again while giving local trade and hospitality businesses a much-needed lift during peak season.

Treat yourself to an authentic experience without having to leave Spain, sample some interesting food flavours and grab yourself something a little different from the market at the Zoco Arabe from Thursday, August 27 to Sunday, August 30.