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Smash & grab! Beer & Rock’n’Roll

FROM August 21 to 31, Mijas will host the Champions Burger, Spain’s top smash burger competition, for the first time. The family-friendly event is expected to draw more than 100,000 visitors from across Spain to enjoy the unique, crispy, and flavourful smash burgers, created by flattening patties on the grill for enhanced taste and texture.

The Champions Burger Smash Edition has attracted over 600,000 participants in places like Mallorca, Granada, and Sevilla. Mijas marks the ninth stop, featuring 17 gourmet burger food trucks from across Spain. Local champion Dak Burger, Malaga’s 2024 winner, will

defend its title, while Gottan Grill, named Spain and Europe’s best burger in 2024, and YouTuber Joe Burger’s Faakin Smash will showcase non-competing creations.

Additional offerings include fries, fried chicken, artisanal ice cream, and cheesecakes.

Attendees will vote for their favourite burgers via QR code, judging bread, meat, ingredients, presentation, and originality. The top three burgers will advance

Champion’s Burger competition, Mijas.

to the national ﬁnal to compete for Spain’s best smash burger title. The event pays attention to sustainability with recycling stations for reusable cups. Held at Las Lagunas Fairgrounds with free admission, it runs Monday to Thursday from 6pm to midnight and Friday to Sunday from noon to midnight. This is a must-visit for food lovers in Mijas during summer 2025.

Dine, dance all night

FROM August 14–17, Benahavis hosts its lively Fair and Festival, packed with activities for all ages. The four-day event features children’s games, live music, free food, and lively street dances, creating unforgettable moments.

Thursday, August 14: The festival opens at 9pm with a lighting ceremony, a movie-themed parade, and free drinks. Fairground rides start at 8pm, with a noise-free period for sensory-sensitive kids. A ﬂamenco performance by Marta Álvarez’s academy follows at 10.30pm. Dances with the ALTAIR and La Tentación Orchestras, plus DJ David Acosta, run until 6am.

Friday, August 15: Daytime brings children’s games like drawing and clay crafts at 1pm, with prizes awarded. Free paella and live music by Ana Soto and Amanda Liñan start at 2pm. Inﬂatable slides and foam cannons entertain from 4pm-8pm. A Rociera Mass and procession honour Virgen del Rosario at 8pm, followed by dances until 6am.

Saturday, August 16: Kids’ games like sack races begin at 1pm, followed by a free

BIRRA & ART Beer Festival is coming to the Boulevard de San Pedro Alcantara, opening Wednesday, August 13, and rocking’ on until Sunday, August 17, celebrating a savouring of world craft beers, world street food at food trucks, and plenty of good old rock’n’roll.

This, the second year of the event, is taking place along the Boulevard de San Pedro Alcantara and will feature draught, bottled, and canned beers; a showcase of over 55 unique craft beer varieties; a wide array of tasty street food with a selection of food trucks and a lot of rock’n’roll with live performances each night.

17, from 7pm to 1am each evening on the La Cala Boulevard. Last year’s event was such a resounding success, it was impossible not to repeat it this year.

There will be Chilean and Argentinian meat grills, classic German sausages, gourmet burgers, and spicy Mexican food, along with a host of other international cuisines.

The beer festival runs until Sunday August

Live music this year comes in the form of the amazing Killer Rockets (Thursday, 14), Queen die-hards Queen of Magic (Friday 15), Blues Solis (Saturday 16), and Costa del Sol rock’n’roll heroes New Tricks (Sunday 17.)

Rockin’ streetfood

FROM August 14 to 17, El Pinar de Elviria in Marbella will host Sabores del Mundo sobre Ruedas (Flavours of the World on Wheels), a delicious gastronomic and musical festival set against a stunning backdrop.

The unique event will bring together live rock‘n’roll, international street food, and familyfriendly activities, making it a fantastic party for a hot summer’s night in the Costa del Sol. The festival will feature nine food trucks serving authentic dishes from countries including Argentina, France, Germany, Belgium, Mexico, Jamaica, the United States, Venezuela,

Stereo 80 (11pm)

Friday, August 15: Joanna Lady Owl (9pm), Buddy Holly Tribute (10pm)

Saturday, August 16: Zac y Bruno (9pm), Mami Curl (11pm)

Sunday, August 17: Aida (9pm), May Day (10pm)

In addition to the culinary and musical selection, the festival includes a children’s area and an artisan market, guaranteeing entertainment for all ages. Admission is free, making it a perfect plan for families, locals, and those just passing through.

Birra & Art beer fest.

Feria Benahavis.

Drum ‘n’ bass legend

MARENOSTRUM

Fuengirola to host star-studded electronic music event on August 16 in Fuengirola

On Saturday, August 16, Marenostrum Fuengirola will be the world centre of electronic music as it hosts a massive dance event featuring legendary DJ Carl Cox, alongside Paco Osuna, Ben Sims, Anna Tur, and ART NO LOGIA. The wild lineup is the second act of Satisfaxion’s 30 + 2 anniversary celebration, following the resounding success of The Prodigy’s concert, which drew over 15,000 fans.

The event, expected to be a near sell-out, will no doubt be an unforgettable night with an amazing production by Satisfaxion,

following its breathtaking Prodigy show.

Carl Cox, a global icon in electronic music, especially drum ’n’ bass, will headline the evening. With over three decades in the industry, Cox remains a titan, mixing techno, house, and a curated mix of classic and contemporary tracks. His infectious energy, charisma, and masterful mixing keep dance

floors alive, creating a seismic atmosphere that gets everyone dancing.

The August 16 event at Marenostrum Fuengirola is going to be one of 2025’s biggest parties, and one not to be missed by three generations of dance maniacs.

Tickets are available now at marenostrum fuengirola.com from €44.

Spinning street circus

THE fifth year of the Mes de las Artes Escénicas (MAE), part of the Red Andaluza de Teatros Públicos, presents a vibrant circus performance on August 20 at the Paseo Marítimo (Playa de la Salida), San Pedro. This free, open-air event welcomes all ages to enjoy Curolles, a dynamic Mallorcan company founded by performers Xisco Vals and Skye Cerdá. Their acclaimed show, Tot Be!, celebrates the traditional spinning top with a creative twist. Having met through street performances and juggling acts, Vals and Cerdá formed Curolles to push artistic boundaries. Vals, 33, is the world champion in traditional freestyle spinning top, while

Cerdá earned fourth place in the same competition.

Tot Be! transforms the spinning top into a star of circus and acrobatics, using a wheelbarrow, ladder, ropes, sawdust, and handcrafted tops to explore physics in a playful 50-minute workshop. Directed and performed by Vals and Cerdá, the show blends creativity and skill, aiming to spark audience smiles. This family-friendly performance highlights the MAE festival’s focus on blending traditional toys with modern performing arts. Join the fun on the San Pedro promenade at 8.30pm for an unforgettable evening of laughter and wonder.

Curolles

Tot Bé by Curolles.

Carl Cox on the decks in Brighton.

PAUL HICKLING, an iconic figure on the Costa del Sol, arrived in Puerto Banus in the 1970s aboard his yacht, accompanied by his family and a parrot. With no clear plan, he became a cornerstone of the region’s transformation.

Now 80, Hickling is selling his legendary Roman Oasis in Manilva, a business that evolved from a Roman-themed show to a boutique hotel, a thriving restaurant, and now a community hub with an 18-hole mini-golf course. Since 1983, over half a million people have visited Roman Oasis, including celebrities like Keith Floyd, Frank Carson, Cilla Black, Bob Hoskins, and Anni-Frid of ABBA. Hickling’s journey began impulsively.

After selling his UK home, he sailed to Puerto Banus and opened a piano bar. Inspired by local Roman baths, he bought land for Roman-themed nights featuring gladiators and fire eaters. “It was a complete disaster at first,” he recalls, laughing. “I lost a lot of money because nobody came.” Undeterred, he transformed it into one of the coast’s busiest restaurants until Covid hit. During lockdown, he built a nine-hole golf course, which expanded to 18 holes and now thrives in its fourth season.

Reflecting on his decision to sell, Hickling says, “I’ll never stop working until it’s sold. I’m 80.” The property, on the market for just under €3 million, spans 30,000m²

Costa del Sol icon

of natural beauty, featuring a four-be droom Roman-style villa with an interior terrace, jacuzzi, rooftop pool, and a large kitchen tied to chef Keith Floyd’s legacy, who wrote his final book there.

The business continues to grow, with 60 per cent new customers and 40 per cent loyal regulars. “It’s most daytime business now,” Hic kling notes, a shift from the late-night restaurant days. He’s witnessed dramatic changes on the Costa del Sol since his childhood visits, when Torremolinos was just two streets and a square, and Puerto Banus mooring cost £1,000 a year. “It’s been blood, sweat, and tears,” he says.

Hickling hopes the buyer will continue the business, taking ad vantage of its diverse potential - whe ther as a hotel, equestrian venture, or private golf estate. Until sold, he and his team keep the fun alive, with events like Thomas Henry’s performance at the Inter national Buffet on August 15 (booking via romanoasis@outlook.com, €25).

Paul Hickling’s retirement marks the cated at Camino los Baños, km 3, Manilva. Contact: 711 068 700.

Paul’s 350 Triumph.

Credit:PH

Jazz Tango season close

CLARENCE Jazz Club in Torremolinos is about to wrap up its 2024/2025 season with a captivating performance by the Julio Botti Quartet, presenting their ‘Proyecto Sudamericano’. Led by two-time Latin Grammy-nominated saxophonist, composer, and artist Julio Botti, the quartet will bring an unforgettable evening of innovative Jazz Tango.

Botti began his musical journey at age eight in Argentina, and with his first saxophone he has spent nearly three decades performing across three continents. From the nightclubs of Havana to the stages of Madrid, Botti has fine-tuned his art, collaborating with legends like Buddy Miles and maestro Pablo Ziegler.

The quartet, which features Julio Botti on tenor saxophone, Marcelo Sáenz on electric guitar, Pablo Alfieri on electric bass, and Javier Forero on drums, will perform a dynamic repertoire which includes nine iconic tangos, a tango standard, and three compositions

Pablo Ziegler. Botti’s accolades include Latin Grammy nominations for Tango Nostalgias (Best Tango Album, 2013) and Sax to Tango (Best Tango Album, 2016), giving him the fame as status as a trailblazer in the genre.

The Julio Botti Quartet play Clarence on Saturday, August 16 at 10pm. Clarence Jazz Club is on Calle Danza Invisible 8, Torremolinos. Tickets are available from the website www.clarencejazzclub.com for between €15 and €18.

PRESS RELEASE

Magic Mike Tribute LIVE

AFTER the incredible success of our last sold-out event, La Sala Puerto Banus is thrilled to announce that the Magic Mike Tribute LIVE by The Lap Brothers is back by popular demand! A sizzling second show has been scheduled for Monday, September 1, and it’s already creating a buzz.

Get ready for the ultimate Ladies’ Night with a 100 per cent chance of ‘It’s Raining MEN!’ as the intimate Live Lounge transforms into a dazzling stage of charm, energy, and all-out entertainment.

Priced at just €15 per person, your ticket includes a complimentary glass of Cava on arrival, followed by an exhilarating live performance by The Lap Brothers, all within an unforgettable atmosphere that defines the best ladies’ night in Marbella.

The evening kicks off with a live DJ set from 8pm to get the party started. Guests are encouraged to arrive between 7pm and 7.30pm to indulge in selections from our exquisite A La Carte menu before the main show begins at 9pm. Don’t miss your chance to relive the magic or experience it for the first time. Secure your table now at La Sala Puerto Banus and prepare yourself for a night of fun, laughter, and a whole lot of wow.

It’s bold, it’s cheeky - it’s the best ladies’ night in Marbella! Let the magic begin!

For reservations, please contact: reservations@ LaSalaBanus.com or call 952 814 145.

Julio Botti Quartet on stage.

Costa captured

FUENGIROLA’S museum has opened its doors to the date-appropriate and slightly nostalgic photography exhibition, Territory Costa del Sol, which celebrates images of the sunshine coast from locations between Nerja and Manilva.

Running until September 28, the expansive show offers a vivid exploration of the Costa del Sol through the lenses of 50 photographers.

The exhibition features over 400 images captured over two years, spanning the region, from sunlit beaches and hidden corners to overlooked places the viewer wouldn’t normally have imagined, a collection painting a comprehensive portrait of the south coast’s landscape. Curated with an initial review by Eduardo D’Acosta, the project expanded on International Photography Day 2024, when the group

ColectivoImagen took to the streets to photograph families leaving the beach. These portraits are now a highlight of the exhibition in a dedicated section titled Territorio Costa del Sol: Familias.

Organised by ColectivoImagen in collaboration with Fuengirola Council, the City Museum of Fuengirola, and the Andalucian Photography Federation (FAF), the exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse beauty and humanity of the Costa del Sol. Don’t miss this unique celebration of place and community, on view until late September.

The exhibition is free to enter with opening times from 10am till 2pm and 5pm till 9pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and 5pm till 9pm Monday to Friday. The museum is in Calle María Josefa Larrucea, 3, Fuengirola.

Sound of love

IN a dazzling announcement that sent fans into a frenzy, Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez have confirmed their engagement after nine years together. But, for the Costa del Sol, this is not the biggest news.

The Daily Mail announced the couple’s plans on Monday, August 11, via their social media accounts before it made print. What we all love about the announcement on the Costa del Sol is that they decided to use the music of our very own Mr Maph, aka Michael Harding. The song ‘I Wanna Marry You’ was carefully selected by the British newspaper as the most appropriate to reveal to the world the celebrity couple’s betrothal.

Most know the wonderful voice of Mr Maph for his renditions of clas-

sic soul greats, but there is another side to the singer who melts hearts on every occasion he bursts into song. He has been working for some time on his own material - a mix of catchy pop, house, soul, dance and UK urban sounds that’s beginning to take off away from the sunny climes of Spain’s south coast. He’s even been delving

into more Spanish fiscal beats, which he finds mix seamlessly with his natural soulful voice.

We can expect big, big things from Micheal Harding in the coming months as the unmistakeable passion-filled sound of Mr Maph reaches further afield than the Costa del Sol.

Discover the sounds of Mr Maph on his Spotify.

From poster for Territorio Costa del Sol.

Soulful sounds from the Costa del Sol.

The Art of Celebration

From intimate gatherings to grand affairs, Tibbi Aquila and his team turn every moment into a masterpiece.

WHETHER you’re planning a dazzling fashion show, a milestone anniversary, a birthday to remember, a pre-wedding soirée, or even an intimate gathering, there is one place in Marbella that guarantees perfection every time - La Scala. Every event becomes a flawless, stylish celebration under the inspired direction of Tibbi Aquila and his exceptional team.

Everything Under One Roof

At La Scala, event planning is effortless. From the ultimate professionals, Balance Photographers, who work alongside up-to-the-minute videographers - complete with drone capabilities if required - every moment is captured in breathtaking detail.

They are joined by top-tier cake designers, balloon stylists, and entertainment professionals, ensuring every aspect of your celebration is picture-perfect. Whatever your bud

Entertainment That Elevates Every Occasion

La Scala is famous for creating unforgettable atmospheres. Expect the electric energy of Diva Fever, whose show-stopping performances light up the night. Then there’s Paul Maxwel - the ultimate party man - who gets everyone on their feet when his fingertips touch the keys, whether at his striking big red piano or the sleek and sexy white piano. And do you prefer to set a different mood? Tibbi has the perfect entertainers for every genre - from jazz serenades and soulful ballads to fiery Latin beats, string quartets, and beyond. Whether it’s a mellow cocktail hour, a lively dance floor, or a dramatic spectacle, Tibbi has it covered. Even the most daring entertainment - fire eaters, trapeze artists, or ladies in a glass - is possible. At La Scala, nothing is out of reach. Menus to Delight Every Taste

Food at La Scala is a celebration in itself. If you crave luxury, indulge in

oysters, caviar, poached salmon, beef Wellington, or steak tartare - each dish prepared with exquisite precision. For simpler tastes, their home-made pastas and fresh seasonal dishes are delivered to the same exceptional standard.

The Tibbi Aquila Signature - Attention to Detail

Tibbi’s hallmark is his meticulous attention to detail. From table settings to service timing, nothing is overlooked. There are no parking worries or logistical stress - just a seamless, stress-free experience for you and your guests. Why La Scala?

Because no dream is too ambitious, and no party is too small. As Andrew Gold might have sung, if you threw a party and invited everyone you knew, the biggest gift would be Tibbi himself - ensuring it would be the best party around. When only the best will do, there’s only one name - La Scala Marbella.

BENALMADENA Pueblo’s iconic Plaza de las Tres Culturas will once again become the heart of festivities as it hosts the annual Feria de Día from Friday, August 15, to Sunday, August 17.

This celebration, growing in turnout every year, promises a family-friendly, inclusive, and lively street party honouring the town’s patron saint, the Virgen de la Cruz. The festivities will feature a varied musical lineup, affordable international cuisine, and activities designed for all ages.

The Feria de Día will run daily from 1pm to 7pm, with a slight adjustment on August 15, when activities will conclude at 6pm to accommodate the traditional Virgen de la Cruz procession.

The musical lineup includes performances by Nuevo Día, Alboreá, Rompeolas, Trueno Azul, Calle La Noria, and the Coro de la Peña Virgen de la

Village fair

Cruz. The repertoire ranges from lively rumbas to soulful sevillanas, which will fill the Plaza de las Tres Culturas.

The event’s success is being supported by strong collaboration from local organisations, particularly the Peña Caballista de Benalmadena, which will manage the festival’s bar, offering drinks and food at reasonable prices.

The Feria de Día is a unique celebration of Benalmadena Pueblo’s identity. Its daytime format, historic setting, and welcoming atmosphere make it one of the biggest village celebrations on the Costa del Sol all year. Plaza de las Tres Culturas in Avenida Juan Luis Peralta, Benalmadena.

ENCHANTING evening ahead at Billie’s Piano Bar and Speakeasy in Torremolinos on Saturday, August 16 when Suzette Moncrief returns for a soul-stirring performance of soul, blues, and R&B.

The free-entry event, running from 9.30pm to midnight, showcases the powerful vocals and magnetic energy of a singer who has become a mainstay of the Costa del Sol music scene.

In the energetic La Nogalera neighbourhood, Billie’s Piano Bar and Speakeasy evokes the charm of a 1920s speakeasy with its gorgeous cocktails and delectable tapas. The venue’s intimate, retro ambiance perfectly complements Moncrief’s classic, jazz-infused performances.

Suzette Moncrief, a New York-born artist of Puerto Rican descent, has called Spain home since childhood. Famed

Jazz diva

for her versatility across soul, funk, blues, jazz, and rock, she has graced stages like Malaga’s Teatro Cervantes and performed alongside artists such as Richard Ray Farrell and Paco Ventura. For this solo show, expect a soulful repertoire featuring classics like Proud Mary and Valerie, alongside heartfelt renditions of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston hits, all deli -

vered with Moncrief’s signature passion and audience connection. Billie’s in Calle Casablanca, 22, Billie’s Piano Bar is easily one of the best venues for live music in town, hosting talented local singers, guitarists, and pianists. Entry is free, offering a unique opportunity to experience one of the Costa del Sol’s finest vocalists in an unforgettable setting.

Suzette Moncrief live.

Credit: Carleen Ileana Rosado - FB

Benalmadena Pueblo feria.

Best bar, new season

AS the 2025/26 football season kicks off, Christy’s Irish Gastropub & Sports Lounge in Fuengirola is the go-to destination for sports fans seeking excitement, camaraderie, and a break from the heat. Voted TripAdvisor’s best pub in Fuengirola and hailed as the ultimate sports bar by locals, Christy’s offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a passionate supporter or a casual viewer looking for a refreshing drink and tasty meal, Christy’s delivers with exceptional food, great drink deals, fast service, and a welcoming vibe - perfect for enjoying the Premier League and Scottish Premiership.

Located in the heart of Fuengirola, Christy’s features eight large indoor and outdoor screens broadcasting matches in high deﬁnition. The pub showcases a wide range of sports, including football, GAA,

lable on request. inclusive

rugby, golf, NFL, tennis, horse racing, Formula 1, and World Cup qualiﬁers, all available on request. Fans are encouraged to wear team colours - football shirts, GAA jerseys, or rugby tops - creating a lively, inclusive environment where families can enjoy hearty meals like full Irish breakfast, scampi & chips, and mixed grills, all highly praised by patrons.

Football fans are in for a treat this season. The Scottish Premiership is underway with ﬁxtures like Dundee United vs Hearts, Livingston vs Falkirk, St Mirren vs Motherwell, and the eagerly anticipated Aberdeen vs Celtic, a highlight for Christy’s passionate Celtic crowd. Wear a unique Celtic shirt for a chance to win a free pint. The Premier League starts August 15 with Liverpool vs AFC Bournemouth, followed by Aston Villa vs Ipswich Town and Celtic vs Livingston.

on TG4 add variety.

Leinster, while US Open tennis and GAA club

With a spacious covered terrace seating up to 100, Christy’s is ideal for groups and families. Christy’s is the top spot for sports, good food, and great times in Fuengirola.

Reserve a table via WhatsApp on (+34) 620 226 911. Located at Calle Olleria, 20, Fuengirola, and open daily from 11am to 1am.

Brasserie Astoria

BRASSERIE ASTORIA MARBELLA, a new gem in Nueva Andalucia, elevates Marbella’s dining scene. Backed by the Frantzén Group and led by Michelin-starred chef Björn Frantzén, it blends Nordic precision with Mediterranean warmth. Co-founded with hospitality expert Eric Ebbing, the brasserie draws from its Stockholm predecessor, featuring local, seasonal ingredients and Andalucian flair. Signature dishes include Toast Astoria with king crab, sea bass crudo with yuzu kosho, and flambéed beef tenderloin. Seafood lovers can savour grilled sea bass with Champagne beurre blanc and Oscietra caviar, while Gambas Pil-Pil honours Malaga’s flavours. The menu evolves seasonally, prioritising fresh, regional produce.

Mediterranean elegance, using natural materials, intimate lighting, and a hand-painted mural by local artist Sebastian Marc Graham. The open kitchen offers a glimpse of culinary artistry, while the terrace, with stunning Marbella skyline views, is ideal for sunset cocktails or late-night drinks at the chic bar. The wine list spans rare vintages, Spanish classics, and international selections, paired with inventive Nordic-Asian cocktails. Exclusive events like wine tastings and chef’s tables enhance the experience.

Led by chefs trained at Astoria Stockholm, the restaurant reﬂects the Frantzén Group’s global excellence, with Björn Frantzén’s three Michelin three-star ventures. Visit Brasserie Astoria Marbella at Avenida del Prado, 3, Nueva Andalucia. Reserve on 606 283 310.

USPGA Tour Championship, Irish Open, BMW PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup. Rugby’s United Championship returns in September with Stormers vs

FUNNY HILL - KARTING, FAMILY

FUN AND ACTION IN MARBELLA

LOOKING for a thrilling day out in the heart of the Costa del Sol? Funny Hill is Marbella’s ultimate destination for go-kart lovers and families who enjoy outdoor fun with a twist of adrenaline.

Located just outside Marbella, in Ojen, this open-air leisure park is built around its main attraction: a 300-metre karting track where both adults and children can race in safe, exciting conditions. Whether you’re an experienced driver or trying karting for the ﬁrst time, the circuit at Funny Hill guarantees smiles and speed in equal measure.

THE MAIN EVENT: KARTING

Funny Hill is, above all, a kar-

ting track. The modern layout is adapted for drivers of all levels, offering different karts for adults and kids. Helmets and safety measures are provided, and no experience is necessary - just arrive, drive, and enjoy the ride!

It’s a fantastic idea for family outings, team competitions,

birthday parties or simply a fun afternoon with friends.

MORE THAN RACING

After the race, the park offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that make it a complete entertainment venue: Trampolines (camas elásticas) for energetic kids

A charming mini train ride

A thrilling mechanical bull for all ages

Cutting-edge VR machines in the ﬁrst Virtual Reality Park on the Costa del Sol

A 500 m² event hall for birthdays, private events and corporate groups

Spacious BBQ and chill-out areas with food and drinks available on site

Whether you’re racing or relaxing, Funny Hill combines adrenaline and leisure in a stunning natural setting.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Open daily and easy to reach from Marbella, Mijas and Fuengirola, Funny Hill offers free parking and plenty of space for everyone.

Espadrille workshop

DESCRIBED as a ‘must-do experience’ and awarded ‘Best Experience’ by TripAdvisor in 2020, this workshop invites you to hand make your own authentic Spanish espadrilles.

Guided by skilled artisans, you can explore the fascinating history of espadrilles, from their humble origins to their status as a global fashion staple, while working with all provided materials and tools.

Enjoy delicious light bites and Cava during the two-hour session. Private and party bookings are available. Sessions are daily from 10am to 12pm at the Marbella workshop (Calle Valdés, 4), sessions cost €90 per person. Book at least a week in advance, as available spots are booked up quickly. The workshop is in Calle Valdés, 3, Marbella.

Popi ham fest

ESTEPONA is currently hosting the 10th World Ham Festival ‘Popi, Ciudad de Estepona’ until Sunday, August 17, one of Malaga Province’s most popular summer gastronomic events.

Organised by acclaimed ham cutter José María Téllez, known as ‘Popi,’ and Estepona Council, this festival is Andalucia’s largest celebration of Iberian ham and its derivatives, earning national recognition as a benchmark for promoting Spain’s culinary heritage.

Held on the scenic Estepona seafront promenade, the event features 65 exhibitors and over 200 professional ham cutters, making it one of the world’s largest specialised food tastings in the country. Téllez estimates over half a million visitors, based on

2024’s turnout, will be drawn by the exceptional quality and variety of products and a vibrant cultural and musical programme.

The festival highlights the artistry of ham cutting, celebrating one of Spain’s most iconic culinary treasures. Each night, free concerts featuring diverse musical acts create a lively, multicultural atmosphere.

Open daily from 7pm to 2am, entry costs just €5,

allowing visitors to purchase Iberian ham, pork derivatives, cheeses, and artisanal breads, while sampling delights at 65 stalls.

Live cutting demonstrations offer freshly sliced ham paired with Sierras de Malaga wines or local craft beers. Supported by the ‘Sabor a Malaga’ brand and the Andalucian Tourism Board, the festival elevates Estepona’s national proﬁle.

Jamones Popi celebration, Estepona promenade.