Holy Week in Málaga 2026: Dates & Processions

Semana Santa in Málaga and Fuengirola 2026 — dates, processions and what to see on the Costa del Sol.

Holy Week in Málaga 2026 is one of the most important events of the year on the Costa del Sol. Every spring, thousands of Spanish and international visitors travel here to experience one of Spain's most spectacular religious and cultural celebrations. If you're planning your trip, here's a complete guide to Semana Santa 2026 in Málaga and Fuengirola — dates, processions, what to see and how to make the most of it.

When is Holy Week 2026?

Semana Santa 2026 runs from 29 March to 5 April, starting on Palm Sunday and ending on Easter Sunday.

• Palm Sunday: 29 March
• Holy Monday: 30 March
• Holy Tuesday: 31 March
• Holy Wednesday: 1 April
• Maundy Thursday: 2 April
• Good Friday: 3 April
• Holy Saturday: 4 April
• Easter Sunday: 5 April

During these days the streets fill with processions, marching bands, incense and thousands of visitors drawn to this centuries-old tradition.

Málaga: one of the most famous Holy Weeks in Spain

Málaga's Semana Santa is considered one of the most spectacular religious celebrations in the country and holds International Tourist Interest status. Every year dozens of brotherhoods take part, with around 40 processions crossing the historic centre. The processions follow a common route through emblematic spots such as:

• Calle Larios
• Plaza de la Constitución
• Alameda Principal
• Málaga Cathedral

One of the most characteristic elements are the enormous processional thrones — some weighing several tonnes — carried by hundreds of bearers known as hombres de trono.

The most important processions

Although there are several processions every day, some of the best known are:

• Palm Sunday. Holy Week officially begins with processions such as La Pollinica, representing Jesus's entry into Jerusalem.
• Holy Monday. The procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús Cautivo, one of Málaga's most venerated images.
• Holy Tuesday. The Virgen del Rocío — popularly known as "the Bride of Málaga" — takes to the streets.
• Good Friday. One of the most solemn days, with some of the most impressive processions.

A curious local tradition: the symbolic release of a prisoner, a custom dating back to the reign of Carlos III that is still honoured today.

Holy Week in Fuengirola 2026

Fuengirola's Semana Santa is also a very special celebration. Smaller than Málaga's, it keeps a strong religious and cultural tradition alive, with several local brotherhoods processing through the town centre past landmarks such as Plaza de la Constitución, Avenida Condes de San Isidro, Calle España and the historic centre.

Among the highlights of Fuengirola's Holy Week:

• Procession of the Santísimo Cristo de la Expiración
• Procession of María Santísima de los Dolores
• Procession of Jesús Cautivo
• Procession of María Santísima de la Soledad

Some processions also pass through emblematic neighbourhoods like Los Boliches, where the atmosphere is wonderfully traditional.

What else to do during Holy Week

Beyond the processions, many visitors use these days to enjoy the spring weather:

• Stroll through Málaga's historic centre
• Enjoy the local food and tapas across the province
• Visit Fuengirola's Sohail Castle and its beaches
• Walk the seafront promenade of any Málaga town
• Take day trips to Mijas, Frigiliana, Nerja or Marbella

Temperatures are usually very pleasant at this time of year and the terraces are full of life. See our guide to what to do in Fuengirola in spring.

Where to stay

Holy Week is one of the busiest periods of the year on the Costa del Sol, so booking accommodation early is strongly recommended. Many visitors choose apartments near the historic centre, homes near the beach, or quiet developments in Fuengirola or Mijas.

Staying in Fuengirola is an excellent option: you can enjoy the local Semana Santa while being just minutes from Málaga.

Holy Week in Málaga and Fuengirola 2026 is a unique experience combining tradition, art, culture and emotion. Whether you want the great processions of Málaga or the closer, more local atmosphere of Fuengirola, these days are a perfect chance to discover the essence of Andalusia. If you're planning your trip, book your accommodation early to make the most of the Costa del Sol.

Written with AI assistance and reviewed by the GR Estates team before publication. AI transparency