El Borge Celebrates 29th Día de la Pasa Festival This Sunday

The whitewashed village of El Borge, situated in the hills of the Axarquía inland from Nerja, is set to host the 29th edition of the Día de la Pasa (Raisin Day) this Sunday, 27 September. The festival serves as an annual homage to the region’s sun-dried Muscatel raisins and the generations of local farmers whose labour has sustained this ancient trade across the rolling slopes.

Recognised globally as part of a UNESCO-honoured agricultural heritage system, the traditional raisin-making process is the true centrepiece of the day. For visitors travelling from Nerja or neighbouring coastal spots, the event offers a genuine look into the rural traditions that have shaped the Axarquía for centuries.

Honouring Centuries of Heritage

During the festival, El Borge comes alive with cultural demonstrations showcasing how the harvested Muscatel grapes are traditionally handled, transported, and naturally sun-dried on sloped drying beds (*paseros*). The event honours the resilient farming families who maintain this intricate and labour-intensive craft on the steep terrain of the Axarquía.

Attendees can look forward to tasting local raisins and regional specialities, alongside vibrant village festivities and cultural displays that highlight El Borge's reputation as the heart of raisin production in the province of Málaga.

A Perfect Inland Excursion from Nerja

Heading inland to El Borge for the Día de la Pasa makes for an enriching day trip from Nerja. While coastal life focuses on beaches and promenades, these autumn harvest festivals reveal the cultural backbone of the Axarquía. Navigating the winding mountain roads through hillside villages gives travellers a panoramic view of the vineyards and characteristic drying beds dotting the landscape.

Wandering the decorated streets during the festival allows travellers to connect with local traditions, sample authentic produce straight from the source, and experience authentic Andalusian hospitality.

Good to know

• Date: Sunday, 27 September
• Location: El Borge (Axarquía, Málaga)
• What to expect: Traditional raisin tastings, heritage demonstrations, cultural displays, and village celebrations.
• Getting there from Nerja: Take the A-7 motorway westbound towards Vélez-Málaga, then follow the inland roads (A-356 and local routes) heading towards Benamocarra and El Borge. Expect a drive of around 45 to 55 minutes.
• Parking advice: As village streets fill quickly during local fiestas, arrive early to secure street parking on the outskirts.