Lenny Kravitz live on the Costa del Sol.
Credit:
Maciej Rogowski Photo – Shutterstock
As the new year begins, the Malaga province and Costa del Sol are gearing up for another spectacular lineup of events that combine tradition, music, pop culture, and faith. From solemn religious processions to star-studded concerts, 2026 promises unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for the region. Here’s a spotlight on the biggest highlights to look out for on the social calendar.
Kicking off the year with deep cultural roots will be Semana Santa (Holy Week), running from March 29 to April 5 across the Costa del Sol. The iconic celebration features elaborate processions of massive religious icons carried through the streets, accompanied by incense, emotional saetas (flamenco-style chants), and massive crowds. Malaga city’s events are among Spain’s most famed, with similarly grand processions throughout the region, and with highlights including the dramatic landing of the Spanish Legion on Holy Thursday.
Costa del Sol’s biggest music festivals
Summer heats up with the return of two world-famous music events. Marenostrum Fuengirola, the open-air concert cycle at the historic Sohail Castle in Fuengirola, has already announced an impressive early lineup. Confirmed acts include Sting, the first of the international acts confirmed. Spanish stars long-since announced are already selling out, and it won’t be long before the international roster will do the same.
Over in glamorous Marbella, the Starlite Occident Festival will once again transform the Nagüeles quarry into a boutique amphitheatre under the stars. While the full 2026 lineup is still unfolding, the festival, celebrated as the world’s best boutique event, traditionally features international legends in intimate settings, combined with gourmet dining and late-night DJ sessions. Dates last between June to August, promising another season of high-profile performances. Lenny Kravitz has been confirmed for June 29, and Deep Purple for July 9, and so tickets are already on sale, while UB40 and Ali Campbell’s dates are expected soon.
The big one: Comic Con Malaga
Pop culture fans have much to look forward to with the second year of Comic Con Malaga in September. Following its wildly successful debut, the 2026 edition is planned with expanded space to accommodate growing crowds. Organisers aim to build on the excitement of celebrity guests, cosplay contests, panels, and exhibits celebrating comics, film, gaming, and more. Exact dates and guests are yet to be confirmed, but expectations are high for another blockbuster event.
Capping the summer is the Feria de Malaga (Malaga August Fair), from August 15 to 22. This vibrant week-long celebration commemorates the city’s 1487 incorporation into the Catholic Kingdom, splitting between daytime street parties in the historic centre—filled with flamenco dresses, horse parades, and verdiales folk music—and nighttime revelry at the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds, complete with rides, casetas, concerts, and fireworks.
These events showcase the Costa del Sol’s unique mix of heritage and modernity, drawing thousands and boosting the region’s vibrant social scene. Mark your calendars—2026 is shaping up to be unmissable!