The Malaga Feria (Fair)

Every August in Malaga, they have a huge fair/Carnival. After our huge assembly last night we went to the much anticipated fair. Apparently, the fair gathers over a million people, including tourists in one week. The fair itself was essentially a huge carnival complete with two ferris wheels, tons of juegos mechanicos or rides, ice cream, churros, other food, stuff for the kids and classic games where people pay money to fail at some ridiculous tossing game to try win a cheap prize. The fair also had streets with small casitas with live music and people dancing and eating with families. There were also shops selling dresses, toys and other things. it was super crowded and we had to split up our huge group and Ashley and I went exploring.

The fun thing about the fair is the culture behind it. Like Octoberfest or Wurstfest, many people, especially children dressed up in traditional Spanish Flamenco clothes. Little boys are running around like mini-matadors and the girls have long earrings, ruffled dresses of all colors and tacones (heels). The fair can be too much of a party however and many people drink all day and all night. Also, you can't help but notice a large number of women dressed up like they are going to a club. Teto (host dad) said people hook up often during the vacation month of August. It was a bit sad to witness such desperateness.

We braved the crowed and walked around to see all of the rides. You would not believe the lack of security on some of these rides! Some kids would be standing up on a spinning ride wiu no seatbelts! One rocking pirate ships had two cages with kids just throw in, and countless others were just nauseating to look at! Ashley and I went for the more fame yet always impressive ferris wheel to see the whole fair and take pictures. We sat with some friendly malagenos.

We walked around and saw all of us pretty lights around until we got picked up at 1:30am, after sharing a chocolate dipped, cream filled churro!

fbt&<3

Sabrina