October is one of the best months to discover the city. Its calendar combines pop culture, concerts, dance, markets and new exhibitions in Malaga.
If you are looking for things to do in Malaga during your next city break, this selection brings together the most interesting October events in Malaga for visitors. Check the latest schedules and ticket availability before making your plans.
San Diego Comic-Con Málaga: 1–4 October
San Diego Comic-Con Entrance – Source: El Español / Alejandro Martínez Vélez
San Diego Comic-Con Málaga returns to FYCMA for four days dedicated to films, television, comics, video games, anime and cosplay.
After welcoming more than 95,000 attendees at its first edition, the event will expand its space in 2026. If you are planning to attend, read our complete guide to Comic-Con Málaga 2026.
Metalírica: poetry and music at Teatro Echegaray
Teatro Echegaray – Source: Visita Málaga
From 1 to 3 October, Metalírica 2026 turns contemporary poetry into three musical experiences directed by Malaga-born composer Tete Leal.
Arquitectura del silencio, based on the work of Pablo García-Casado, opens the series with contemporary chamber music. It is followed by De menta y barro, inspired by the poetry of Raquel Lanseros and influenced by flamenco and electronic music, and Luz de luna, based on the work of Ioana Gruia and connected to neo-soul and jazz. Each performance begins at 8 pm and tickets cost €20.
New exhibitions in Malaga
Museum Casa Natal Picasso – Source: Visita Málaga
¡Olé! The myth of Spanish identity through Andalusia
From 3 October, the Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga explores how Andalusia has influenced the cultural image of Spanish identity.
Running until 21 February 2027, the exhibition includes works by Goya, Picasso, Sorolla, Julio Romero de Torres, Mary Cassatt and Cristina García Rodero, among many other artists.
Picasso: propaganda and political activism
On 7 October, the Museo Casa Natal Picasso opens an exhibition examining Picasso’s involvement in the fight against fascism, war and imperialism.
Around 130 works and documents show how the artist used his reputation and his work to defend peace and freedom. The exhibition runs until 28 February 2027.
Munch–Picasso
Munch–Picasso opens on 30 October and will be one of the major cultural events of the autumn.
For the first time, an exhibition brings the two artists into dialogue through more than one hundred paintings, drawings and prints connected by themes including love, illness, solitude, death and existential anxiety. It will remain at the Museo Picasso Málaga until 28 February 2027.
Concerts and October festivals in Malaga
Teatro Cervantes – Source: Estudio Segui
Live music at Teatro Cervantes
The S!ngulares 2026 programme features several standout October concerts. Fórmula V performs on 1 October, Javier Ruibal on 2 October, José Mercé on 3 October, Rafa Sánchez on 7 October, OBK on 10 October, Malú on 11 October and Cristian de Moret on 18 October.
It is a varied programme for visitors looking for Malaga concerts, ranging from pop and flamenco to Spanish singer-songwriter music.
Danza Málaga 2026
From 13 to 31 October, Danza Málaga 2026 will bring contemporary dance, ballet and flamenco to Teatro Cervantes and Teatro Echegaray.
Among the most anticipated performances are Farruquito on 14 October and Sara Baras with Infinita from 24 to 27 October. The programme also includes Pastora Galván, Luz Arcas, the Kyiv Ballet, Alba Heredia and Ana Morales.
A free plan for the October long weekend
On Monday 12 October, from 11 am to 7 pm, the extraordinary Zoco Maravilla market will bring stalls selling crafts, fashion, food, local products and vintage pieces to Muelle Uno.
It is one of the best free things to do in Malaga in October and a relaxed way to enjoy the public holiday by the sea. Regular markets will also be held on 4, 11 and 18 October.
Where to stay in Malaga for the events
Coeo Frailes Design Apartments
Choosing accommodation in Malaga city centre allows you to walk to Teatro Cervantes, Teatro Echegaray, Muelle Uno and the main museums. The centre is also well connected to FYCMA by public transport.
If you are comparing hostels in Malaga centre, you can stay at Coeo Pod Hostel Beatas or Coeo Hernán Ruiz Rooftop Pool Hostel, both offering a social atmosphere and an excellent location.
For more independence, discover Coeo’s Malaga holiday apartments, including Coeo Frailes Design Apartments, Coeo Fresca Roof Garden Signature Apartments and Coeo Despertar Signature Apartments.
Book with Coeo House and enjoy all the October plans from the heart of the city.
