Introduction

As we say "Adios" to Summer and "Bienvenido" to Autumn, we start planning our activities Autumn, and Halloween! While Halloween may not be a traditional Spanish celebration, it has found its way into the hearts of many on the Costa del Sol. 

Note: We're adding new Halloween and other Events happening this Autumn on the Costa del Sol 2024 as they are announced. Feel free to email our Content Marketing Team with any events you would like to see in this guide! Email: [email protected]

Is Halloween Celebrated in Spain?

Spain is a country steeped in tradition, boasting an array of vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year. However, Halloween, known locally as "Noche de Brujas" or "Noche de las Brujas," has gained popularity in recent years, especially among the younger generation and expatriates.

Halloween in Spain is mainly observed as a children's holiday or a spiritual festivity intended to commemorate the dead

While it may not carry the same weight as traditional Spanish holidays like Semana Santa or La Feria de Abril, Halloween brings its own unique charm to the Iberian Peninsula.

Trick-or-treating has also gained popularity, with children dressed in costumes going door-to-door, shouting "¡Truco o trato!" (trick or treat) and collecting sweets and treats from their neighbours. This American import has seamlessly integrated into Spanish Halloween traditions.

Trick or Treating in Spain happens on October 31st (Día de las Brujas), the same as other countries.

When is Halloween Celebrated in Spain?

In Spain, Halloween takes place over 3 days: October 31st is known as ‘Día de las Brujas’ (Day of the Witches), November 1st as ‘Día de Todos los Santos’ (All Saints Day) and November 2nd as ‘Día de los Muertos/Difuntos’ (Day of the Dead/All Souls Day).

The blend of festivities ensures that Halloween in Málaga is both exciting and deeply rooted

in tradition, offering a unique experience for all ages. A blend of spooky fun on Halloween

and the spiritual reflections of All Saints’ Day gives Spain's celebrations a unique cultural

richness, combining ancient traditions with modern flair.

Many pubs and eateries in Málaga host exciting Halloween-themed nights, transforming

their spaces with eerie decorations, dim lighting, and spooky-themed menus. If you’re in

Málaga during Halloween, you can expect a lively atmosphere, with venues embracing the

spirit of the holiday. 

Here are a few options to explore for a fun and haunting experience:

Muelle Uno: This popular shopping and dining area near the port of Málaga hosts

Halloween events with costume contests, face painting, and trick-or-treating for both adults

and children. Restaurants in this area often adopt Halloween-themed menus, and many

feature special décor for the night.

El Pimpi: A renowned tapas bar in Málaga’s historic centre, El Pimpi often participates in

citywide celebrations. During Halloween, it may feature spooky decorations and themed

drinks for a fun, festive vibe.

The Shakespeare: This English-style pub is known for hosting Halloween parties with scary

décor, themed cocktails, and a fun party atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and

tourists alike.

La Terraza de Larios: This rooftop bar with incredible views of the city and the cathedral

hosts themed parties during Halloween, combining its chic atmosphere with dark, spooky

elements and Halloween cocktails.

La Tranca: A vibrant tapas bar in Soho, La Tranca often decorates for special events like

Halloween. Expect lively music, Halloween costumes, and a spirited crowd.

These venues offer a mix of traditional Spanish hospitality and a modern, spooky twist,

making Málaga an exciting place to celebrate Halloween!

Family Halloween Activity at La Concepción – Jardin Botanico Historico, Malaga

The entire family can enjoy an amazing Halloween activity at La Concepción Botanical

Garden on October 26 and 27 runs from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Take part in an

enjoyable scavenger hunt where you have to conquer obstacles to ensure Halloween

night is quiet. The general admission fee is €9 per person; children under 16, large families,

students up to 26, retirees, and pensioners receive a reduced rate of €6.90. Remember to

reserve your position in advance by sending an email to:

[email protected] or calling 951 92 61 80!

If you prefer a more relaxed Halloween experience, spending the holiday on one of Málaga's

beautiful beaches can be a delightful alternative. Enjoying Halloween by the sea offers a

unique blend of fun and tranquillity, allowing you to soak up the sun while still partaking in

seasonal festivities.

Many beach bars and restaurants along the coast host themed events, featuring spooky

decorations, special Halloween menus, and cocktails. Some places even organize Halloween

parties where you can dress up in costumes while enjoying the warm Mediterranean

breeze.

Additionally, you might find local vendors selling treats like roasted chestnuts and other

autumn snacks, creating a festive atmosphere right by the shore. Whether you're lounging

on the sand, enjoying delicious food, or mingling with friends and fellow beachgoers,

celebrating Halloween at the beach in Málaga provides a memorable and enjoyable

experience.

For more ideas on enjoying Halloween in Málaga, you can check out local event listings or

tourism websites.

What Dishes Are Served at Halloween in Spain?

Huesos de Santo, or The Saint's Bones, are highly regarded and a must-have during Halloween in Spain! These sweet treats are made from marzipan paste with a delicious yolk filling and are typically served on All Saints' Day.

Another notable dish during the Halloween season in Spain is La Castanyada, which features roasted chestnuts. It is believed that these chestnuts were traditionally offered to bell-ringing workers on October 31st, the first day of the festivities.

In addition to roasted chestnuts, local dishes, sweet potatoes, almond sweets, and sweet wine are commonly served during feasts and festivals, adding to the culinary experience of the holiday season. 

Events and Activities Happening the Costa del Sol in 2024

Let's take a look at what's going on in and around Mijas Costa, inland areas and the rest of the Costa del Sol this year...

Source: https://venafuengirola.com/

Fuengirola Fair

Get ready for the Feria del Rosario, one of Andalusia's most exciting and iconic fairs! Horses take center stage, and fairgoers dazzle in their finest traditional attire. By day, the streets come alive with elegant carriages and a lively atmosphere, while by night, the party keeps rolling with music and dancing at the fairgrounds. The celebration kicks off on October 6th and runs until the 12th, coinciding with Columbus Day, or ‘Dia del Pilar,’ a national holiday—so you’ve got even more reason to join in the fun!

Date: 6th October to 12th October 2024

Time: All Day

Location: Fuengirola

More info: Virgin of the Rosary Fair Fuengirola 2024 » Date and More (venafuengirola.com)

Feria de la Virgen de las Nieves y San Roque 

(30 Sept - 2 Oct, Torrox, Málaga)

Kick off October with this lively fair, originally held on 5 August but moved to cooler weather! Expect a weekend packed with local traditions and celebrations.

Romería del Cristo del Paño 

(5 Oct, Moclín, Granada)

This unique festival features a painting left by the Reyes Católicos, rather than the usual statue. The event is tied to a centuries-old miracle, where a man was cured of cataracts whilst cleaning the painting!

Feria y Fiestas en Honour of Nuestra Señora la Virgen del Rosario 

(6-7 Oct, Montoro, Córdoba)

This fair has it all—flamenco dancing, bullfights, concerts, a livestock fair, and even a special lunch to honour the town’s senior citizens!

Romería del Sur de Granada & Fiestas de la Virgen del Rosario

(6-9 Oct, Salobreña, Granada)

A pilgrimage that ends at Playa del Peñon with a festive mass, followed by flamenco, food tastings, horse demonstrations, and a night-time procession!

Feria y Fiestas de la Virgen del Rosario

(6-12 Oct, Fuengirola, Málaga)

With 32 peñas and countless activities, Fuengirola’s feria promises music, performances, and celebrations in the Palacio de la Paz.

Fiesta de la Virgen del Rosario Coronada

(7 Oct, Rota, Cádiz)

Dating back to the 16th century, this fiesta brings parades, fireworks, and a vibrant carnival, with the highlight being the patron saint's procession.

Mercado y Fiesta Medieval Visigoda "Villa Torre de Don Ximeno"

(7-10 Oct, Torredonjimeno, Jaén)

Step back in time with medieval food, storytelling, street theatre, and fun activities for children as the town dresses up in full medieval fashion.

Feria: Fiestas en Honour of the Virgen de las Angustias y San Miguel Ángel

(8-12 Oct, Nerja, Málaga)

Expect flamenco singing, folkloric performances, and dance competitions. Plus, three “Reinas de la Fiesta” (for children, youth, and seniors) and Mr and Miss Nerja beauty pageants.

Romería de la Virgen de la Luna

(9 Oct, Villanueva de Córdoba, Córdoba)

On the second Sunday of October, the statue of the Virgen de la Luna is taken to her sanctuary, where she remains until February.

Día San Dionisio

(9 Oct, Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz)

Commemorating the day King Alfonso X recaptured Jerez from the Moors in 1264. Expect city-wide celebrations honouring its patron saint.

Estepona

Estepona Council will celebrate Halloween on Sunday October 31, from 8 pm to midnight, with a party in the municipal Booth at the Fairground with a free host.

Among the activities set to take place are a zombie dance show Passage of terror by the municipal theatre group Farandula.

Amusement Parks

During the Halloween season, various amusement parks in and around Malaga undergo a spooky transformation to create thrilling venues for celebration. For instance, Sea Life becomes an enchanting Ascarium where families can enjoy trick-or-treating and engaging activities. Similarly, Selwo Marina in Benalmadena and Selwo Adventure in Estepona offer the opportunity to encounter terrifying creatures such as tarantulas, piranhas, bats, snakes, and poisonous frogs. These experiences not only provide entertainment but also have educational value for children.

The Benalmadena Cable Car goes a step further by organizing a fancy dress party, transforming its cabins into spooky, cobwebbed modes of transportation. Meanwhile, BioParc hosts a gymkhana for kids and grants free entry to costumed guests. The Aeronautical Museum rewards children dressed in Halloween costumes with freebies during their activities. Lastly, the Automobile and Fashion Museum undergoes a chilling transformation into the Fear Museum during the Halloween season in Malaga.

Conclusion

It's fair to say that there is going to be plenty going on for Halloween on the Costa del Sol this year! As mentioned at the start of this article, we'll be adding more events as they get announced. If you come across any events that you think should be featured here, please do let us know by emailing us on [email protected]

Property on the Costa del Sol

Halloween is just one of the great times of the year when there's plenty going on. The Costa del Sol is an incredible place to live and these community events are just one of the reasons why it's so great. If you are considering relocating to the South of Spain, take a look at our properties for sale on the Costa del Sol, inland properties for sale in Spain and properties for sale in La Cala de Mijas.