Horses fill Fuengirola’s streets, welcoming everyone for a day full of tradition

Get ready for the sounds of horse shoes clip clopping along the streets as Fuengirola brings back its annual horsey tradition

Ninth year of the festival

Fuengirola is saddling up for its ninth edition of “Fuengirola a Caballo” (Fuengirola on horseback) on Saturday, September 19. turning the beautiful town centre into an equestrian showground all day from from 11.30am until 10pm. Festivities take place across several locations, including Plaza de la Constitucion, the area around Plaza Reyes Catolicos and Avenida Condes de San Isidro.

Stand back and enjoy the traditional carriage displays, equestrian shows, horsewomen’s parade, plus the 48th Exhibicion de Enganches and the third International Traditional Harness Competition, held in memory of respected breeder Jose Luis Martín Lorca.

A curtain-raiser for the Feria del Rosario

Organisers don’t view this celebration as a standalone affair. Officials describe it as the warm-up act before Fuengirola’s biggest annual party, the Feria del Rosario, running from October 6 to 12. Building excitement well ahead of the main fair has become something of a tradition in its own right.

Carriage participants gather at 11.30am for introductions before setting off on a route through the streets at midday, starting and finishing near the Plaza de Toros. Equestrian performances wow the crowds at Plaza de la Constitucion, while musicians entertain those gathered at Plaza Reyes Catolicos. Prize-giving for both the harness exhibition and the traditional competition takes place at 5.50pm on Avenida Condes de San Isidro, close to Plaza Reyes Catolicos.

Nine editions in, this equestrian gathering is a very special event. Expect road closures and heavier footfall across the centre, so planning ahead pays off for anyone hoping to catch the carriages, watch a performance, or enjoy the atmosphere and have a little tasted before the big fair begins. For more information visit the Fuengirola Town Hall website