Día de la Pasa Celebrates Moscatel Grape Harvest in El Borge

The picturesque inland village of El Borge, situated in the heart of the Axarquía, marks one of the region's most cherished agricultural traditions with its annual 'Día de la Pasa' (Raisin Day) on Sunday, 20 September 2026. Recognised as a festival of provincial tourist singularity by the Diputación de Málaga, this lively harvest celebration pays homage to the centuries-old art of cultivating and drying sweet Moscatel grapes.

For travellers basing themselves along the coast in Nerja or neighbouring towns, the fiesta offers a memorable culinary day trip into the rolling hills of the interior. On 20 September, visitors can experience first-hand the heritage that has shaped this landscape, featuring traditional grape-drying demonstrations, spirited performances of local folkloric music, and generous tastings of locally produced Moscatel wine and sun-cured raisins.

A Tradition Rooted in the Slopes of El Borge

El Borge has long been renowned as a focal point of raisin production in southern Spain. The sun-drenched, slate-rich hillsides of the Axarquía provide ideal conditions for the Moscatel grape, which undergoes a labour-intensive manual harvest.

During the festival, villagers showcase the ancient process that turns freshly cut grape bunches into prized raisins. Skilled locals demonstrate the preparation of the traditional *paseros*—the south-facing, inclined drying beds where clusters of grapes are laid out to cure naturally under the late-summer Mediterranean sun. Watching the rhythmic turning and sorting of the fruit gives visitors a profound appreciation for the artisanal craft preserved across generations.

Music, Tastings, and Mountain Atmosphere

Beyond the agricultural displays, the festival transforms the whitewashed streets of El Borge into an open-air celebration of Andalusian folklore. Traditional music groups, including *pandas de verdiales*, fill the village squares with lively rhythms and dancing.

The highlight for many is the chance to sample the village's signature delicacies. Complimentary tastings of sweet, rich Moscatel raisins and aromatic local wines are shared among attendees, offering an authentic taste of Axarquía terroir. Small stalls set up across the town centre offer the chance to purchase freshly packaged raisins, artisan crafts, and regional products directly from local producers.

Getting There from Nerja

Reaching El Borge makes for an easy and scenic journey through the inland valleys. From Nerja, the drive typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes heading west along the A-7 motorway before turning inland toward Vélez-Málaga and continuing along the winding mountain roads that lead through Benamocarra and Almáchar into El Borge. Because the festival attracts many visitors from across the province, arriving earlier in the morning is recommended to secure parking near the entrance to the village.

Good to know

• Date: Sunday, 20 September 2026
• Location: El Borge, Axarquía (Málaga province)
• Highlights: Traditional grape-drying demonstrations, tastings of Moscatel wine and raisins, folkloric music
• Travel time: Approximately 45–50 minutes by car from Nerja
• Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the historic village features steep, cobblestone streets.