Estepona commemorates its patron saint San Isidro this month with celebrations taking place from 12th to 17th May.
San Isidro Labrador, who is also the patron saint of Madrid, lived in the 12th century when the city was still little more than a village. He worked as a humble farm labourer and was known for his deep devotion to prayer. According to legend, while he prayed, angels would take on his workload—leaving him free to continue his devotions (a useful trick to remember!).
During the week, Estepona hosts a wide range of cultural and recreational activities, including livestock competitions, wine tastings, bird exhibitions, and traditional contests involving axes and chainsaws, alongside equestrian displays. These events reflect the town’s agricultural heritage and craftsmanship, helping to keep local traditions alive.
The highlight of the celebrations comes on 15 May, the feast day of San Isidro. On this day, a grand procession honours the saint, beginning with his image drawn through the streets by oxen before being carried by bearers. The town is adorned with flowers and natural decorations, while music, applause and fireworks create a lively atmosphere. Thursday 15 May is also a local public holiday in Estepona.
San Isidro Labrador Fair 2026 – Estepona
Programme of Events
Tuesday, 12 May – Children’s Day
The fair opens with discounted attractions throughout the fairground area, with rides reduced by 50%.
19:00 – Great Parade of Joy with Giants and Big Heads
A festive parade setting off from Víctor de la Serna School, accompanied by a brass band, following a route through the town centre streets before returning to the school.
22:00 – Official Opening of the Fairground
Ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Fair, Sports and Leisure Ground, attended by local authorities, Queens and Ladies of Honour, accompanied by the Municipal Band of Estepona. The official opening dance will then take place in the main marquee.
23:30 – DJ Entertainment
Music and dancing continue in the Official San Isidro Labrador marquee.
Wednesday, 13 May
11:30 – Traditional Country Hut Workshop
Children will learn how traditional countryside huts were built for the San Isidro pilgrimage.
12:30 – Exhibition: “San Isidro in Images”
Photo exhibition at the Official Fair Marquee.
13:00 – Olive Oil Tasting
Introduction to local olive oils hosted by agricultural entrepreneur Dá Mayca Galán Sánchez.
18:00 – Children’s Fiesta
Games and entertainment with the Mimosín Show.
22:00 – Dance Performance
Performance by the dance group “Con Acento”.
23:00 – DJ Entertainment
Thursday, 14 May
10:00 – Floral Offering to Estepona’s Patron Saint
Floral offerings at the Brotherhood House in Calle Papuecas.
12:00 to 18:00 – Esparto Grass Craft Workshop
Traditional basket and woven object demonstrations.
14:00 – Traditional Sopa Campera Tasting
Free tasting of the popular country soup prepared by members of the Brotherhood.
17:30 – Fig Bread Workshop
Traditional fig bread preparation workshop.
21:00 – Dance Performance
Performance by the “La Milana” Dance Studio.
22:45 – Live Orchestra Dance
Dance until late with the group “Latidos”.
Friday, 15 May – San Isidro Day
00:00 – Official Start of the Patron Saint’s Day
Twelve fireworks launches announce the feast day.
08:00 – Institutional and Public Offering to San Isidro
Food donations collected for local families through Cáritas.
10:00 – Opening of the Brotherhood House
11:00 – Solemn Eucharist Celebration
Mass at San José Parish Church.
12:00 – Visit to the San Isidro Altar
The Brotherhood altar in honour of the Patron Saint can be visited throughout the day.
12:30 – Official Presentation of the Institutional Offering and Regional Dances
Traditional performances by local dance groups and verdiales musicians.
13:00 – Visit to the Altars
Authorities and local representatives tour the decorated altars through the town.
18:00 – Grand Procession of San Isidro Labrador
A colourful procession featuring horse riders, decorated carts, traditional dress, verdiales musicians and local groups through the streets of Estepona.
23:00 – Live Orchestra Dance
Music with the group “Latidos”.
00:00 – Headline Performance by Fran Ocaña
Live concert from his 2026 tour “Billete a ser feliz”.
Saturday, 16 May
10:30 – Estepona Wine Competition
Local wine competition in the Official Marquee.
13:30 – Axe Skill Competition
Traditional wood-cutting competition demonstrating speed and precision.
15:00 – Prize Giving Ceremony
17:30 – Traditional Threshing Demonstration
Demonstration of traditional grain threshing using mules.
21:00 – Dance Performances
Performances by students of Lourdes Bazán and Lourdes Barrientos.
22:30 – Live Orchestra Dance
Dance until late with “Latidos”.
Sunday, 17 May
11:30 – Horse Gymkhana Competition
12:30 – Horse Ribbon Race
13:30 – Garrocha Horse Competition
15:00 – Prize Giving Ceremony
18:00 – Afternoon Gathering for Senior Residents
Traditional merienda for local senior residents with entertainment by the dance group “Mónica Peña”.
21:00 – DJ Entertainment
Closing night music in the Official Fair Marquee.
