On September 5, 2026, Almáchar will host its 56th Fiesta del Ajoblanco, offering more than 4,000 litres of this traditional cold soup for free. The event features tastings, workshops, flamenco, and a shuttle service from Torre del Mar, drawing visitors to one of Málaga’s oldest food festivals.
More than 4,000 litres of ajoblanco will be served free of charge in Almáchar on September 5, 2026, as the town marks the 56th edition of its celebrated Fiesta del Ajoblanco. This annual event, rooted in the heart of the Axarquía region, transforms the village into a hub of culinary and cultural activity from morning until well past midnight.
The festival’s programme is designed to immerse visitors in local traditions. Free tastings of ajoblanco—a cold soup made from almonds, garlic, bread, olive oil, and vinegar—will be available between 12:00 and 15:00 at the Paseo de la Axarquía and Plaza del Santo Cristo de la Banda Verde. Alongside the main dish, guests can sample local muscatel grapes, wine, and raisins at various points throughout the town.
Workshops and Guided Tours
For those interested in learning the secrets behind ajoblanco, the “Aprende a hacer Ajoblanco” workshop will be held at the Centro de Mayores in three sessions: 10:00, 11:30, and 13:00. Spaces are limited and require advance booking by phone or email. Guided tours, including a session in English, will depart from the Paseo de la Axarquía at scheduled times, offering insights into Almáchar’s history and its connection to local produce. Entry to the Museo de la Pasa will also be free for festival-goers.
Music, Art, and Community
The day’s events extend beyond food. The V Concurso de Pintura “Ventanas al Arte y al Moscatel” art exhibition will be open from 12:00 to 20:00. At 17:00, the Panda de El Borge will lead a lively parade, followed by performances from local choirs, dance schools, and verdiales groups. Children’s activities and theatrical scenes will add to the festive atmosphere, while a “Pica de Pasas” workshop at 12:30 will highlight the region’s raisin tradition.
Evening Highlights
The official ceremony begins at 20:30 in the Plaza de España, where Manuel Sarriá Cuevas will deliver the festival’s keynote address. The 2026 Ajoblanco Awards will be presented to Adolfo Cisneros, the programme “Techo de Cristal,” Fundación El Pimpi, the town of Adamuz, and Revista Litoral, recognising contributions across local, regional, and cultural spheres.
From 22:00, the Noche Flamenca will bring together artists such as Esmeralda Rancapino, Rubén Martín, Moisés Navarro, Fátima Navarro, Delia Membrive, Luis de Mateo, and Carlos Haro for a free open-air concert. Simultaneously, a charity dance with live music will take place at the Paseo de la Axarquía, where visitors can enjoy pollo al moscatel and sangría for one euro, supporting an animal protection association. The festivities are set to continue into the early hours with traditional music and communal singing.
Free Shuttle Service
To accommodate the expected influx of visitors, the local council will provide a free shuttle bus from Torre del Mar’s bus station, stopping in Vélez-Málaga before reaching Almáchar. Return trips will depart from Parque María Zambrano. The service is scheduled to align with key festival moments, with departures to Almáchar at 12:00, 15:00, 19:00, and 22:00, and returns at 14:00, 17:00, 21:00, and midnight. Those wishing to stay beyond the last bus will need to arrange alternative transport.
First held in 1968, the Fiesta del Ajoblanco is recognised as Málaga’s oldest gastronomic festival. Its enduring popularity reflects the region’s pride in its culinary heritage and the community’s commitment to sharing it with visitors. As noted by Talent24h, the event continues to draw both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of tradition, hospitality, and celebration.
