Remember the toy you begged for until it finally appeared on Christmas morning? It could be waiting for you inside a medieval castle on the Costa del Sol.
Fuengirola is hosting the International Toy and Collectors’ Fair at Sohail Castle on Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, and entry costs nothing. Organised by Playmopop Eventos, it fills the long All Saints’ Day weekend with exhibitions, workshops and games for all ages.
Fun for parents, children, grandparents and grandchildren
Culture councillor Rodrigo Romero promises something different that will make the whole family happy, “from grandparents to grandchildren”. The fair has already visited Seville, Malaga, Huelva, Cordoba and Caceres.
Romero sees toys as more than playthings. In his view they teach, carry culture and link generations. Young visitors can discover new worlds, while parents and grandparents reconnect with their own early years and swap memories.
Spanish classics, Lego and Funko Pop
A section called “Icons of Yesterday” brings together Geyperman and Madelman (action figures that were big in Spain), Airgamboys (small play figures), Nancy and Barriguitas dolls and model electric trains.
“Great Universes” is devoted to Playmobil, Lego, Scalextric slot-car racing and scale-model cars. Modern pop culture gets its own corner, with Star Wars, G.I. Joe, action figures, collectable miniatures and the Funko Pop craze. Old tin and wooden toys complete the picture.
Board game fans can trace how family favourites have changed since the 1970s, with Monopoly, Hotel, El Pale and Tragabolas on display.
Workshops, costumes and music
Children can make slime, flower vases, masks and scary animals. Witches and skeletons will provide themed entertainment, and a Halloween costume contest rounds off the programme.
Puzzle and traditional board game tournaments include *parchís* (the Spanish version of Ludo) and the *oca* (the “goose game”, a race around a spiral board). On Saturday, DJ Xavi will play music inspired by 1980s and 1990s TV series and old toy adverts, so be ready to hum along.
Collectors’ market and a good cause
Craftspeople and specialist shops from Andalucia and the rest of Spain will fill the Collectors’ Market, selling everything from classic toys to action figures and miniatures. It could be a good place to find a one-of-a-kind gift ready for a stocking filler.
A charity corner will collect new or good-condition toys and non-perishable food. The organisers say every donation will go to social organisations in Fuengirola.
Head to the International Toy and Collectors’ Fair at Sohail Castle on Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, for full information visit the Fuengirola Town Hall website.