Every year, between the two middle weekends of September, the enchanting white village of Guaro on the Costa del Sol takes us back to Andalucia’s rich past influenced by Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures.
Throughout the event, the village magically becomes one bustling Moroccan souk lit by over 25,000 candles hypnotising all the 50,000 visitors that have travelled from afar to visit this unique festival.
Echoing the atmosphere of Morocco, visitors are spoilt for choice from an array of artisans selling their wares such as jewellery, clothes, sweet Moorish cakes and handicrafts. Although be warned, the art of haggling may not be such a regular occurrence here in Guaro.
The warm spicy aroma of incense can be smelt sifting through the narrow cobbled streets of this quaint Andalucian village, accompanied by mesmerizing belly dancers, story tellers and musicians charming both the young and old in its crowded streets.
Over the years, the festival has become increasingly popular and has attracted some big names in the Hispanic music industry such as the late Paco de Lucia, Antonio Orozco and Chambao, to name just a few.
Boasting the second largest open air auditorium in the province, seating a massive 1600 people, this coming September, the Festival of the Moorish Moon is expected to be even bigger and better than previous years. The artists performing this year are Miguel Poveda, José Manuel Soto, Niña Pastori and Pasión Vega, bringing you an eclectic fusion of flamenco and folklore.
For the event itself all entrance is free, however you do have to buy tickets in advance if you want to see any of the performances.
How to get there:
- Guaro is situated at the entrance of the Sierra de las Nievas National Park
- The village can be found fifteen minutes from Marbella on the A355 via Monda
- Parking is available just outside of the village where you can catch a shuttle bus to the festival
