When summer bids farewell and autumn begins to appear, the vineyards of Malaga come alive. It is harvest time, a magical season in which tradition, culture and wine come together. In several towns in the province, this celebration becomes a major event: decorated streets, music, dancing and, of course, the region’s star product.
If you are passionate about wine tourism, popular culture or simply want to discover another side of the province by car, read on. Here are the best options for enjoying the grape harvest festival in Malaga.
What is the grape harvest festival?
The grape harvest festival commemorates the start of the grape harvest, a thousand-year-old tradition in Andalusia. Although it is celebrated throughout Spain, in Malaga it has a special flavour: the combination of climate, landscape and hospitality make it a unique experience.
These festivals are not just for wine lovers: there are also craft markets, competitions, processions, local cuisine and live music.
Manilva: the most popular festival on the western Costa del Sol
Manilva, one of the main wine-producing municipalities in the province, celebrates one of Malaga’s best-known grape harvest festivals every first weekend in September.
What will you find?
Muscat wine tastings, traditional grape treading in the square, various flamenco performances and popular festivals, and a food fair featuring local products.
The festival pays tribute to the region’s winegrowers, many of whom are families who still cultivate their vineyards using traditional methods. And thanks to its location, you can combine your visit with a day at the beach or a trip to Casares or Estepona.
Moclinejo: grape harvest and culture in the Axarquía region
In the east of the province, in the heart of Malaga’s Axarquía region, another great harvest festival is held in the charming village of Moclinejo. Its cobbled historic centre and rural surroundings make it the perfect place to enjoy wine in a traditional atmosphere.
What does this party offer?
Sweet Muscat wine tasting, music from different verdiales bands, exhibitions on the history of wine in the region, and demonstrations of farm work.
What’s more, the festival coincides with Cultural Week, so you’ll find workshops, theatre, poetry and activities for all ages.
Other harvest festivals in the province
If you are willing to visit more towns, we recommend exploring other locations that also proudly celebrate this tradition:
- Cómpeta: Wine festival on 15 August, with grape offerings, free wine and musical performances.
- El Borge: Raisin Day, which, although not a harvest as such, is closely linked to the production of Muscat wine.
- Sayalonga: Medlar fair and wine festivals, ideal for a spring break with flavour.
All these destinations are accessible by car from Malaga city, making them perfect for a weekend getaway with Yellowcar.
Tips for your wine route through Malaga
- Plan according to the calendar: these festivals are usually held between August and September.
- Drive responsibly: if you are going to taste wines, alternate with water and food or consider spending the night in the area.
- Enjoy the surroundings: many of these villages are surrounded by spectacular landscapes that are ideal for taking photographs or strolling at sunset.
- Rent with flexibility: with Yellowcar, you can start your route from different points along the Costa del Sol and tailor it to your preferences.
Raise a glass with Málaga: flavour, tradition and wine in every village
The grape harvest festival in Malaga is not just an event, it is an immersion in Andalusian rural culture. Through wine, its people and its landscapes, you will discover a province rich in nuances. Create your own route, enjoy yourself at your own pace and let yourself be carried away by the flavour of a tradition that is still alive today.
With Yellowcar, every village is just a few kilometres away… and every glass is full of history.