Social Scene Costa del Sol 3 - 9 April 2025 Issue 2074
Make Elvis GREAT again GREAT
IT’S now or never to get way down with Johnny G as he presents Elvis: All Shook Up! at Fuengirola’s Salón Varietés Theatre.
For two nights onlyThursday, April 3, and Friday, April 4 - this highly acclaimed international showman will take audiences on a thrilling journey through the life and career of Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The curtains open at 7.30pm, guaranteeing an unforgettable tribute concert to the legacy of Elvis Aaron Presley.
That’s alright, Mama. Johnny G, a star in the world of Elvis Tribute Artists (ETAs), channels the spirit of 1971 Memphis, delivering a performance that captures Elvis’s charisma and timeless hits. The ETA scene is a global phenomenon, with top
talents like Britain’s Ben Thompson (featured in Blade Runner 2049) commanding Vegas stages and fan clubs.
Tickets are available at the Salón Varietés box office, open Mon day to Friday, 11am to 2.30pm, and one hour before each show. For wheelchair access, purchase tickets directly at the box office, as the theatre is fully accessible. For advance sales, tickets are availa ble from the Salón Varietés website. Children under five aren’t permitted, and all children
need their own seat with adult supervision.
Don’t miss this electrifying celebration of Elvis at Fuengirola’s English-speaking venue, Calle Emancípación, Fuen-
Mama Paula
NIGHT of soul-stirring blues with the internationally acclaimed Mama Paula Blues Band taking the stage at the Clarence Jazz Club.
Known for her wizardry on the electric guitar, keyboards, and vocals, Mama Paula is a versatile musician whose deep, bluesy energy and talent have captivated audiences worldwide and now along the Costa del Sol.
Mama Paula’s career is a proof to her ever-lasting passion for the blues. She has performed at the most prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall alongside guitar legends such as Mark Knopfler, Van Morrison, and Joe Cocker.
Her stage presence has also graced collaborations with icons like Mud Morganfield (son of blues titan Muddy Waters), Suzi Quatro, Alan Price, and Jimmy James. From humble beginnings at Route 66, where she famously convinced a sceptical club owner to give her a shot, Mama Paula has risen to become a respected figure in the global blues scene.
Mama Paula is playing Clarence on Saturday, April 5 at 10pm. Tickets for Mama Paula at The Clarence Jazz Club cost between €10 and €12, available in advance online at the Clarence website.
Johnny G all shook up.
Mama Paula.
Lunch and fashion
Alhaurin cuisine festival
MARK your calendars for a dazzling event coming up on Friday, April 25, when Age Concern Marbella - San Pedro hosts a Lunch and Fashion Extravaganza at Guadalmina Golf Club.
Opening at 1pm (seating at 1.30pm), the event features a three-course meal with water and wine for just €45. Book by emailing lunches@ageconcernmarbella.com and select from the delicious menu.
The entertainment will be Costa del Sol star, couturier and entertainer Brian Piccolo, celebrated for dressing the stars, presenting a fashion show and sharing tales from his fascinating career in ‘My Life as a Couturier’.
Dabbing a touch of glamour to goodwill, Brian is donating a bespoke garment, crafted exclusively for the winner of the €10
ticket competition. The prize allows the winner (male or female) to choose their fabric, with Brian covering the cost. (Wedding dresses excluded) it’s a couture dream come true.
Tickets are unlimited; you can buy as many as you like at the San Pedro Community Centre, any of Age Concern’s coffee mornings, from Brian on 664 898 767. If you can’t attend, you can still enter the draw.
morning, call or WhatsApp 689 355 198 (weekdays, 10am - 6pm). Join Age Concern for fashion, food, and xxx
Every euro raised supports Age Concern’s mission to combat loneliness among the elderly in Spain.
Brian’s generosity is shining bright with this incredible prize added to his regular performances at CK La Quinta retirement home.
For more details or to find your nearest coffee
AFTER being put back a couple of weeks due to the threats of heavy rains, the Fiesta de Cachorreñas has been rescheduled for Saturday, April 5 in Alhaurin el Grande old town.
For those daring to delve into the real Andalucia and take a bite of the most authentic of their surroundings, there will be a delectable delight in Alhaurin el Grande.
According to Ana Abelleán Ciudad, the pre-eminent expert on the historic cuisine of the Malaga Province, there is nothing more Alhaurin than Las Cachorreñas, a savoury dish with a centuries-old recipe, and surely one of the secrets behind the longevity of its citizens.
This simple dish made of potatoes, onion, garlic, tomatoes, squished oranges and salted cod. As with all the simplest of recipes, the art is in the preparation. On Saturday, April 5, the elders of Alhaurin el Grande will go head to head in a competition to discover the best Cachorreñas cook.
In this championship, everyone, locals, residents, and visitors, become the judges. Who makes the best Cachorreñas? There is only one way to find out.
Expect plenty of free cachorreñas, and mojete (typical bread from the village), ham and wine tasting, a food market specialising in produce from the Guadalhorce Valley and flamenco shows.
The Fiesta de la Cachorreña is talking place in now Plaza Baja, Alhaurin el Grande on Saturday, Saturday, April 5. The market opens at 12pm, and the cachorreña tasting at 2.30pm.
Brian Piccolo.
Credit: Martin Gaffney
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Alhaurín el Grande
Scandi blue, Jo’ Buddy
FINNISH Rock ’n’ Roots star Jo’ Buddy is returning to the Costa del Sol for a mini tour from Friday, April 4, until Saturday, April 12.
The Blues, Jumping Jive sound of Jo’ Buddy is already well-known on the He-
lsinki and London circuits, and this year he has decided to bring the Jive to Estepona, Fuengirola, Benalmadena and Malaga for a spring break and a set of foot-tapping Rock ’n’ Roll. Singer, guitarist, son-
gwriter, troubadour, bandleader, melting pot Jo’ Buddy is the full package. He has a particularly individual and personal style. His laid-back sounds spread the joy of life, being simultaneously raw, timeless, earthy, and spiritual.
It’s a rich and spicy Rattle ’n’ Roll Gumbo including; Ragtime, Swing, New Orleans Rhythm & Blues, Swamp Boogie, Down Home Blues, Boogie Woogie, Jump Blues, Cajun, Zydeco, Gospel, Soul, Hillbilly, Western Swing, Rock’N’Roll, Rockabilly, Ska, Rock Steady, Surf & Garage Rock, Latin Grooves, and even echoes of Western African Rhythms and even Spanish Flamenco.
Jo’ Buddy plays Kukko at Simply Scandinavian, Avenida de los Boliches, on Saturday, April 5. Ticket prices range between €15 and €18.
Benalmadena Bike Festival
BENALMADENA’S Bicycle Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary on Sunday, April 6.
A family-friendly cycling event is being held and expected to draw more than 1,000 participants, according to local reports.
Organised by the Benalmadena Town Council’s Sports Department, the festival kicks off at 11.00 am at the Arroyo de la Miel Sports Centre.
According to Benalmadena.es, two cycling routes will be available: a children’s course for little ones born between 2020 and 2022, involving 30-minute laps around the athletics track, and an 8.6-kilometre urban route through Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmadena Costa. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The event isn’t competitive, it’s just for fun. Councillor for Sports Alejandro Carretero said, “We expect around 1,000 runners to participate in this fun event that combines a good atmosphere, costumes, and sports, and where the most important thing is to have fun.”
However, there is some competition involved as participants are being encouraged to dress up, with prizes for the most original costumes and bicycles, as well as rewards for the two primary schools with the highest participation. Gift raffles will also take place during the event.
Various municipal departments, local clubs including UDA Benalmadena and Crazy Legs Skating, and community businesses are supporting the celebration.
Credit: Facebook, Palacio Deportes Benalmádena
A family-friendly cycling event is taking place this weekend.
Autism Awareness
TORREMOLINOS will mark World Autism Awareness Day this weekend with some engaging events for all. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world around them.
The event begins on Friday April 5 with a full day of activities from 11.00am to 6.00pm at the Isabel Manoja Community Development Centre.
Activities range from radio, photography, and painting workshops to virtual reality headsets, an escape room, and surf simulation with balance boards. A bubble zone, storytelling with pictograms, a pet exhibition, films, trampolines, and picnic areas are also planned, along with
ticipate, including Autismo Málaga, Neurodiverso, Fundación Nilo, and Surf Sin Límites.
Mayor Margarita del Cid stated:
“This isn’t just about organising activities for family members of people with the disorder; it’s about involving
On Saturday April 6, the second TEAcompaña Solidarity Walk will take place. Participants will meet at 11.00am at the Isabel Manoja Centre.
Registration is open via Entra dium.com, 700 tickets are available.
Laughs
IT’S giggles for a good cause down at The Corner House in Sabinillas on Thursday, April 3, as a
top line-up of Costa del Sol comedians take the mic to raise funds for a brilliant charity.
Headlining the
Charity Comedy Night is funnywoman Lucy Amans, who’s roped in local laugh-masters Nick Tarlton, Sonia Ingriselli and the one-named wonder, AD, for a sidesplitting night of standup. Adding to the fun is local musician-turnedmic-slinger Gary Fearon, who’ll be serving up a bonus comedy set.
But it’s not just about the belly laughs - every single cent from the €10 Eventbrite ticket goes straight to Mulika Afrika, a charity working to develop kindergartens in poverty-stricken parts of Tanzania. “We firmly believe that every child deserves the right to an education,” organisers say.
And if that’s not enough to tickle your fancy, there’s also a raffle for a bar tab - so bring some spare euros and cross your fingers! Doors open at The Corner House, Sabinillas, for a night of booze, banter and bighearted giving. Tickets via the Eventbrite website.
Get ready to laugh - and learn - for a very worthy cause.
World Autism Awareness Day.
3,
Costa comics unite for a night to remember.
Credit: Shutterstock, Supamotionstock.com
Uniting more than 125 different nationalities.
Torremolinos Residents Days
TORREMOLINOS is getting ready for one of its most-loved celebrations of the year - Residents Day, which unites more than 125 different nationalities.
The rich multicultural tapestry of the 31st Residents Days festival, set for April 4-6 in La Carihuela, will be showcasing the music, art and cuisine of some of the more prolific nationalities resident in the town at the Plaza del Remo, demonstrating the town’s welcoming spirit.
According to Mayor Margarita del Cid, “This is a gathering of a melting pot of cultures and identities from countless places, united by one thing: they call Torremolinos home.” The Residents Days will feature stalls split into two zones: one for artisan crafts and another for gastronomy and live performances, highlighting
THE art of sushi exhibited at the new opening of PuroSushi, Puente Romano, a brand new Omakase restaurant with a level of authenticity rarely seen in Spain.
This intimate Japanese restaurant, driven by founders Ivana Boeri and Andrés Médici, promises a unique sushi experience rooted in tradition, precision, and exceptional ingredients. Known only to those who seek it out, PuroSushi offers a rare, personalised dining journey for just 12 guests at a time, guided by a chef whose passion for quality shines in every morsel.
The story of PuroSushi began in 2007 in Galicia, inspired by Andrés’ for-
the unique traditions of each community. Local associations like ‘Latina Americana Mano Amiga’ from Venezuela, ‘Vive México’, ‘Assadaka Marruecos’, and ‘Puerto Rico Aspuri’ will offer handmade goods, while groups such as ‘Cubanos Unidos’, ‘Killay Perú’, and ‘United Hindus of Spain’ will serve up authentic savoury street food.
The stage will come alive with 28 performances, from Chilean folk dances to traditional German bands and Bolivian artistry, celebrating Torremolinos’ global heartbeat.
Free and open to all, the event runs from 11am to 11pm on April 4 and 5 and 11am to 5pm on Sunday, April 6. Join the festivities and experience the warmth of Torremolinos’ diverse, united community.
The art of
mative years under sushi pioneer Masao Kikuchi at Marbella’s Gran Hotel Guadalpín. After launching their first venture, Osushi, in Vigo in 2006, the region’s first non-Westernised Japanese eatery, the couple refined their craft, mastering techniques like Ikejime.
In 2016, they debuted PuroSushi, a smaller, quality-driven concept. Now, they return to Marbella, where it all started, bringing decades of expertise and a family legacy with their son Agus Médici,
who honed his skills at Tokyo’s Michelin-starred Hakoku in 2023.
PuroSushi’s menu showcases the finest Mediterranean and Galician seafood. Highlights include wagyu nigiri, and seasonal delicacies elevate the experience. Reservations are a must for this exclusive taste of sushi perfection.
PuroSushi opens at Avda. Nabeul 3, Marbella, on Thursday, April 3.
Credit: PurOsushi
Credit: Ayuntamiento Torremolinos
Rob Sas Louie Louie
GIANT of local rock, The Rob Sas Band is back, this time at the most rock’n’roll venue on the Costa del Sol, Ricky Cuesta’s Louie Louie down at Estepona harbour.
Ready to blow the roof off one more time, The Rob Sas Band returns to Estepona, home territory for Rob, with a setlist of the best in classic rock numbers from ACDC to Zeppelin and ZZ Top to Sabbath!
(ex-Status Quo) in Switzerland, playing to a biker-packed venue reminiscent of Close Encounters, only to follow it with a UK show for six people and a dog.
The multitalented Sas, rock guitarist and singer, is no doubt the most experienced on the Costa del Sol scene. He has played with a plethora of greats, including Steve Priest and Mick Tucker of The Sweet and ‘Hud’ Hudson of the Strawbs.
Reflecting on decades of gigs, Sas recalls a standout moment with the John Coglan Band
“A Rob Sas Band gig is fun - you’re among friends, trading good-natured jabs,” he said. “Rock’s grown here since I arrived. My Stratocaster’s my favourite, every time.” Sas’ passion keeps the Costa del Sol rocking loud and proud.
The Rob Sas Band, comprised of local well-known musicians David Gil (vocals), Rodrigo López (bass) and Dr Bastion (drums), are all seasoned musicians on the Costa del Sol.
The Stratocaster-wielding Sas returns to Louie Louie in Av. Luis Braille on Saturday, April 15, at midnight.
FOR a dining experience blending culinary supremacy with eco-conscious innovation, Fuengirola’s Sollo restaurant is piquing the interests of Costa del Sol foodies.
Already awarded one Michelin Star, two Repsol Suns, and the coveted Michelin Green Star for sustainability, Sollo has found a niche in Mediterranean gastronomy. Founded by Brazilian-born, Malaga-adopted chef Diego Gallegos, the restaurant turning heads with its signature caviar and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Sollo’s menu celebrates the Mediterranean diet, spotlighting crisp lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, aubergine, and freshwater fish.
Remarkably, 90 per cent of its menu comes from its own sustainable resources, a testament to Gallegos’ pioneering ‘gastroaquaponics’ philosophy, a system that merges fish and vegetable cultivation, ensuring a steady supply of seasonal, high-quality produce while minimising environmental impact.
Dining at Sollo doesn’t come cheap. A full tasting menu comes at €170, but more budget-friendly options, such as caviar dishes starting at €26. The Michelin recognition reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality and ecology, proving great food and green practices can and do coexist.
Av. del Higuerón 48 / 692 425 385
Rob Sas Band (minus David).
Credit: EWN
Sollo restaurant, Fuengirola.
LA CALA DE MI-
Waiters’ race spring heat Top chefs head to Benahavis
JAS LIONS were out in force on Saturday, March 29, for their firstever Waiters’ Race through the streets of La Cala.
Waiting staff from many of the local bars and restaurants volunteered to represent their establishments (or, were they volunteered?) to help raise money for charity. Swift servers lined up to get registered, and then it was off to the starting line for a race against time. Each waiter embarked on a race against the clock, holding a tray with one hand with a glass of water, a cup of coffee and a croissant. The objective was to race down Calle Marbella to El Torreón and the finish line, where local celebrity and compere John Sharples was
Waiters, on your marks…
entertaining the crowds of onlookers.
Eskina, Soto, Ellas, Cortinilla, Blarney, Bridges, and Biddy Mulligan’s all sent down their representatives with their sponsorship forms filled in. At the end of the time trial, with the waiters trying to squeeze past the crowds without spilling too much, a 10-minute microscopically accurate forensic examination of exactly how much coffee
and water was left in their receptacles. Brad Carolan from Bridges came in first to win the first Waiters’ Race, going down in history in the town’s first-ofits-kind race.
The total winnings were still being totted up while the Drang drummers kept the crowds on their feet. Well done, La Cala de Mijas serving staff, and well done, Lions. Another grand day out had by all for great causes.
truly standout event.
IT’S not every day that students get to cook for Michelin-starred chefs - but on Tuesday April 8, the Escuela de Hosteleria de Benahavis is preparing to host a truly standout event.
The amazing charity initiative Chefs-
ForChildren is landing on the Costa del Sol’s gourmet hotspot for a high-profile day of food, learning and fundraising, all in support of diabetes research. The day begins at 10am with a visit to the school and a discussion with students, followed by a press con-
ference at 11am and a special cocktail event at 12pm - with the food and drinks prepared entirely by the students themselves.
The event will be overseen by Jose Antonio Mena, mayor of Benahavis, and Manuel Cardena, president of the Mancomunidad Costa del Sol. But it’s the kitchen line-up that’s expected to steal the show.
These chef heavyweights - representing some of the finest kitchens in Malaga and beyond - will trade their fine dining menus for mentoring and fundraising, all to back a life-changing cause.
Sandra Campinas, director of the foundation DiabetesCERO, will also be in attendance. The charity is dedicated to funding research to cure type 1 diabetes and will be the main beneficiary of the initiative.
Event details
Location: Escuela de Hosteleria de Benahavis, Av. de Andalucia, 23, 29679 Benahavis, Malaga.
Date: Tuesday, April 8
Agenda: 10am - School visit and student talk 11am - Press conference 12pm - Cocktail prepared by students
Top chefs head to Benahavis to fight diabetes.
Freak Con 2025
GET your capes and controllers readyFreakCon is storming back to the Costa del Sol, and this year it’s bigger, bolder and even more brilliant than before.
The ninth edition of southern Spain’s biggest geek gathering will take place on May 24 and 25, transforming the Palacio de Congresos in Torremolinos into a 30,000-square-metre haven for cosplay kings, anime addicts, and gaming gurus.
Following a record-breaking turnout of more than 45,000 fans in 2024, this year’s event is aiming even higher - with an expanded outdoor area, more guest stars, and a jam-packed schedule of pop culture mayhem.
When the sun goes down, the energy ramps up with the Atomic Pixel Party - a nightly extravaganza mixing live electronic music, pixel art visuals, and otaku references galore. Think of it as a rave for retro gamers, anime lovers and digital dreamers - all rolled into one neon-lit bash.
Last year’s edition generated an economic impact of more than €8.5 million for the town of Torremolinos - and organisers are confident 2025 will top that, both in attendance and revenue.
The festival has become a flagship event for the region, positioning Torremolinos as the go-to destination for fans of alternative entertainment and international fandom.
Eager fans can already grab their tickets via the official FreakCon website, with more announcements - including surprise guests and special events - expected in the coming weeks.
Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer, a Pokémon purist, or just looking for a fun weekend out with the kids, FreakCon 2025 is shaping up to be the can’t-miss event of the geek calendar.
COSTA FOOD TOURS
What’s the big deal with Calamari?
ALTHOUGH prized in Italian and Asian cuisine, nobody embraces squid with more passion than the Spanish; and you can’t avoid it!
It is a beloved ingredient in Spanish cuisine, featuring prominently in a variety of traditional dishes, showcasing Spain’s strong connection to seafood. Spanish cuisine prioritises fresh, high-quality seafood, making calamari dishes particularly flavourful.
The ubiquitous squid (Calamari or properly ‘Calamares’ in Spain) is a feature on almost all traditional Spanish bar and restaurant offerings, but why is it so popular?
Well for a start it’s incredibly versatile and served in various forms with numerous different cooking methods, which we will explore below, and it’s also low in calories and fat and high in protein.
It’s abundant in the oceans, with generally short lifespans but fast reproductive cycles, so they are generally resilient to fishing pressures. It’s also sustainable with more and more fishing fleets employing sustainable fishing practices.
So what can you expect to see on menus:
Calamares a la Romana (Deep Fried Squid Rings) - coated in a light batter, similar to tempura and often served as a tapa with lemon wedges and alioli (garlic mayo).
Calamares en su Tinta (Squid In Its Own Black Ink) - cooked with onions, garlic, tomato, and white wine, served with rice for a rich and unique flavour.
Calamari a la Plancha (Grilled Squid)the squid is marinated with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grilled for a smoky flavour. A lighter preparation that highlights the squid’s natural flavour.
Arroz Negro (Black Rice) - a black rice
dish made with squid ink, calamari, garlic, and seafood stock. Typically garnished with alioli.
Calamares Estofados (Squid Stew)slowly braised, normally in tomato sauce and spices with capers and olives, this is tasty squid comfort food.
Rellenos de Calamares (Stuffed Squid) - whole squid tubes are stuffed with ingredients like breadcrumbs, seafood, and herbs, then baked, grilled or simmered in sauce.
Bocadillo de Calamares ( Squid Sandwich ) - very popular in Madrid, it’s made with fried calamari rings stuffed into crusty bread. Often enjoyed as street food or a quick snack.
Calamari Ceviche (Marinated Raw Squid) - a staple in South America but its influence has been significant on the Iberian peninsula. Thinly sliced raw squid, bathed in lime and/ or lemon juice, normally with chiññis and red onion, simply delicious.
So there you go, a little tour of something that is so important to Spanish cuisine, but hopefully it’s given you an insight into the fact there’s more than just deep fried squid rings to come from this hugely versatile seafood. Enjoy!!
LoveJuice returns to La Sala
By The Sea
GET ready to dive into the ultimate daytime pool party as International Party
Brand LoveJuice makes its highly anticipated return to La Sala by the Sea in Marbella on Thursday May 22.
This May Bank Holiday Weekend, expect nothing but pure energy, epic vibes, and unforgettable moments at the LoveJuice Splash Party - where the sun, sea, and sound collide for the perfect open-air clubbing experience.
Known for bringing together a stylish, music-loving crowd, LoveJuice curates events in the hottest global locations with world-class DJs, live performers, and top-tier production that elevate the atmosphere from start to finish. This one’s going to be special.
George Mensah, Founder of LoveJuice comments: “The LoveJuice
Marbella journey started at La Sala by the Sea over a decade ago.
“Together, in my opinion, we transformed the daytime culture in Puerto Banus. The fact that you get to dance and mingle carefree as you gaze at the sea has always been a little paradise for me. I’m excited to be returning this summer in 2025.”
Don’t miss out on the most talked-about pool party of the summer! Get
ready to dance under the sun, sip cocktails by the pool, and create unforgettable memories at LoveJuice’s grand return to La Sala by the Sea.
Limited availabilitybook now!
For reservations and VIP bed bookings, contact La Sala by the Sea at reservations@LaSa laByThe Sea.com or call 952 813 882.
FUN FAIR EASTER
ONE of TAPAS’ annual events, the Spring Fair, is always popular with something for all the family. This year’s event is no exception.
An Easter Bonnet Competition for adults and children, Bake-a-Cake Competition, Children’s Easter Egg hunt, and over 30 craft stalls are just a few of the activities.
Come along and join the fun, enter the competitions, Bonnets are already being made, cakes being baked and children excited at the prospect of searching for chocolate goodies.
Entry to the fair is free and is taking place at Chiringuito Ania & Mayra, Carretera Cartama-Coin KM 4.3, Cartama on Saturday April 12. The fair opens at 11am until 3pm.
TAPAS supports the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group. For further information contact: info@ adsgmijascostaspain.com.
SHOPPERS, save the date! Marbella’s much-loved Rastrillo Benefico is back at Parque de la Alameda on Sunday April 6, from 10am to 8pm - and it’s not just about scoring a deal. This isn’t your typical car boot sale - it’s a lifeline for those battling addiction and emotional hardship.
Run by Horizonte Proyecto Hombre Marbella, the event pops up every two months on the first Sunday of even-numbered months. And while it’s a treat for bargain hunters, it also raises critical funds to support the group’s work in the community.
On offer? A bit of everything. Think clothes and shoes for all ages, books in multiple languages, homeware, handbags, belts, toys, costume jewellery and even home-made sweets. It’s
A SPLASH of Celtic soul is set to sweep through Benalmadena on April 3, as local pub Mullarkey’s prepares to host a lively evening of music with a difference - and it’s all thanks to the Stolen Gnomes.
Promising ‘Irish/Celtic songs and tunes, soul, blues, rock and other popular songs with a Celtic twist’, the event is open to the public and guaranteed to get toes tapping and Guinness flowing. It’s organised by Stolen Gnomes, a group known for bringing a distinctly Irish flavour to the Costa del Sol music scene.
The free event looks set to pull in expats and tourists alike, with the promise of singalongs, fiddles, and foot-stomping favourites. Think Whiskey in the Jar meets Sweet Home Alabama with a tin whistle on top. Where and when?
Mullarkey’s Irish Bar,
a mix of new and nearly new items, all donated by generous locals and businesses. And if all that shopping leaves you peckish, you’re in luck. Local association Arama will be serving up tapas, soft drinks, and tasty bites, giving the day a proper festive feel in one of Marbella’s most iconic parks.
But it’s not just a feel-good day out. Every euro raised goes towards vital programmes run by Horizonte Proyecto Hombre, including: School prevention workshops that help students steer clear of risky behaviours; The Family School, which gives parents and educators the tools to spot problems early; And Social-Educational Integration Centres, where vulnerable kids and teens get access to education, fun, and a sense of belonging.
Costa Celtic capers Marbella charity market
Celtic capers hit the Costa: Live music with a twist coming to Benalmadena pub.
Benalmadena.
Thursday, April 3
Open to all - no tickets required.
Whether you’re Irish, honorary Irish for the night, or just fancy a pint with some live music, this could be the perfect midweek pickme-up.
Who’s behind the music?
The Stolen Gnomes aren’t your average cover band. They’ve built a re-
putation locally for reworking classic rock, soul, and blues numbers into Celtic-infused anthems. Their gigs are known for infectious energy, fiddles that don’t quit, and a crowd that sings every word. This gig is part of a string of live performances at Mullarkey’s, which continues to cement its place as one of Benalmadena’s most buzzing live music pubs.
Credit: Shutterstock, Dihetbo
Marbella charity market offers a bit of everything.
