Estepona is set to celebrate a cherished Malaga tradition with a grand feast featuring 350 kilos of free sardines, prepared over wood fires, on Saturday, September 5, starting at 8 PM.

The event, known as La Gran Espetada, will take place at the explanada de los cuartos de armadores next to the breakwater of Estepona Fishing Port. Four award-winning chefs specializing in the art of espetos will be in charge of cooking the sardines. These chefs—Miguel Leon, Alfonso Marin, Miguel Saint, and Nicolas Joaquin Gavin—have garnered accolades for their expertise in this traditional cooking method.

The Town Hall of Estepona emphasizes the significance of the espeto, a culinary technique that has been passed down through generations along the Malaga coastline. The sardines will be skewered and grilled over an open flame, providing attendees with an authentic taste of the region’s coastal cuisine.

In addition to the free sardines, the event will feature a charity bar operated by the Hermandad de Nuestra Señora del Carmen Coronada, where attendees can purchase drinks and refreshments. A DJ will also provide musical entertainment throughout the evening as the chefs prepare the sardines.

Those looking to enjoy the free dish should arrive early, as the 350 kilos of sardines are limited to the event.

Estepona’s Gran Espetada is part of the town’s summer cultural program, offering both residents and visitors a delightful opportunity to experience traditional Malaga cuisine by the fishing port. For anyone who enjoys the aroma of sardines cooking over an open fire, Saturday promises to be a memorable evening.