Por Daniel Pérez
The “Virgen del Carmen” Fair is, along with the “Feria Internacional de los Pueblos” and the “Virgen del Rosario Fair”, one of the most important celebrations in Fuengirola. This historical celebration commemorates, every year during several days of festivities, the veneration and devotion of the residents of Fuengirola towards the Virgin of Carmen, who is the patron saint of the fishing district of Los Boliches.
During these days, the Virgin of Carmen Fair, commonly known as the ‘Los Boliches Fair,’ takes place in the fairgrounds. In this fair, you’ll find booths to spend the day or night with a lively atmosphere of music, dance, and celebration, along with the opportunity to enjoy food in each of them. Then, at the beginning of the fairgrounds, the iconic fair rides and some food stalls are set up.
July 16th, the day of the Virgin of Carmen, is the most important day of this celebration. On this day, a procession takes place where a group of sailors, carrying the throne of the Virgin on their shoulders and accompanied by a musical band, parade through the entire city and then reach the beach, entering the sea with the Virgin of Carmen on their shoulders. It is truly a beautiful sight, and if you have the opportunity, we recommend watching it because it will give you goosebumps.
Program of the Feria de la Virgen del Carmen de Los Boliches 2024
The Feria del Carmen de Los Boliches, held from July 12 to 16, is one of the most anticipated festivals in Fuengirola. During these days, the city comes alive with a varied program that includes concerts, cultural activities, sports events, and activities for all ages. The fair is a tribute to Our Lady of Carmen, Patron Saint of Los Boliches, and is characterized by its festive atmosphere and rich entertainment offerings. If you would like to see the full PDF with the program, you can do so here.
Friday, July 12
- 9:30 PM – Official opening at the fairground gate with the flag raising by Mayor Ana Mula, accompanied by the Municipal Music Band.
- 10:00 PM – Performance by the BailaConmigo dance academy led by Marina Fernández on the main stage.
- 11:00 PM – Concert by Carlos Bravo.
- 12:00 AM – Musical performance by Chambao.
Saturday, July 13
- 12:00 PM – ‘Games for Everyone’ at Los Boliches beach in front of the Peseta monument, organized by the Los Boliches Futsal Club. Activities for all ages with traditional exercises.
- 9:30 PM – Performance by the Alicia Iranzo Dance School at the Fairground.
- 10:30 PM – Musical presentation by La Caletera.
- 11:30 PM – Concert by María Villalón.
Sunday, July 14
- 9:00 PM – Show by the Juan Antonio Pérez `Azabache´ Dance Academy at the Fairground.
- 10:00 PM – Performance by the group Los Salvajes del Rebalaje.
- 11:00 PM – Concert by Merche.
Monday, July 15
- 8:00 PM – Children’s party with a theatrical performance by the Peladillas group and workshops by the Oszagales company at the Fairground.
- 8:00 PM – ‘Children’s Day’ with attractions at 50% of the usual price.
- 10:00 PM – Flamenco Festival ‘Santa Fe de Los Boliches’ in collaboration with the Peña Flamenca Unión del Cante, featuring performances by Antonia Contreras and Sebastián Navas (singing), José Ramón Caro and Antonio Carrión (guitar), and Eva Sedeño’s flamenco group. Hosted by Francisco Reina.
Tuesday, July 16 – Carmen Day
- 12:00 PM – Mass in honor of Our Lady of Carmen at the Carmen Parish of Los Boliches, followed by the blessing of the flower crown in homage to sailors lost at sea.
- 8:45 PM – Procession of the Patron Saint of Los Boliches from the Carmen and Santa Fe Church, including the traditional entry into the sea to bless the waters, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display from the T breakwater.
- 11:00 PM – ‘Youth Night’ at the Fairground with a performance by the musical group El Duende Callejero.
Pre-Fair Activities
- Sunday, July 7 – Reenactment of the “tirada del copo” (net casting) at 9:00 AM on Los Boliches beach, in front of the Los Náufragos beach bar.
Note: The City Council has printed 1,000 programs and will distribute 500 fans with the most prominent activities of each day.
When is the “Virgen del Carmen de Los Boliches” Fair 2024?
This historical celebration is scheduled for this year, 2024, from Saturday, July 13th, to Wednesday, July 17th, with the most important day being the 16th when the procession of the Virgin of Carmen takes place.
Where is the “Virgen del Carmen de Los Boliches” Fair 2024?
The “Virgen del Rosario Fair” in Los Boliches is celebrated, as always, at the Fuengirola fairgrounds.
