Each spring, Estepona comes alive with colour and festivity during the Cruces de Mayo, one of the town’s most beloved traditions. This celebration, usually held in late April or early May (the 2025 event will be held on Thursday 1st May), transforms the streets and squares into open-air galleries
filled with handcrafted floral crosses, music, and joyful gatherings.
The roots of Cruces de Mayo go back centuries, originally linked to the Christian story of the True Cross. Today, it blends religious symbolism with a strong sense of community pride. Local residents, neighborhood groups, and cultural associations design and build elaborately decorated crosses, typically using fresh flowers like carnations and roses. These displays are often surrounded by traditional Andalusian decor—embroidered shawls, clay pots, and antique furniture that give each scene a distinctive character.
What makes Estepona’s Cruces de Mayo especially charming is its local flavour. The event brings neighbors together in a friendly competition, with participants spending weeks preparing their entries in secret. When the day arrives, the town’s historic center becomes a vibrant walking route, where visitors can admire the creativity and attention to detail in each cross. A jury evaluates the crosses and awards prizes for the most beautiful and authentic arrangements.
The festival atmosphere extends beyond the floral displays. Many of the areas around the crosses host food stalls, live music, and impromptu dancing. Traditional Andalusian music fills the air, and visitors can enjoy local tapas and drinks in a relaxed, joyful setting.
Cruces de Mayo in Estepona is more than a springtime celebration—it’s a living expression of Andalusian heritage and togetherness. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it offers a colorful, heartwarming glimpse into the town’s culture and spirit.
