Marbella Christmas MARBELLA and San Pedro Alcantara are embracing the festive season with a combination of traditional Andalusian celebrations, family activities and charity events. Children are preparing to hand their wish letters to the Royal Postman, the emissary of the Three Wise Men. In Marbella, youngsters can deliver letters at a special collection point in Paseo de la Alameda. In San Pedro Alcantara, the postman’s house will open in Plaza de la Iglesia from Saturday 27. Both sites will run until early January, closing only on New Year’s Day. Free Magical Christmas Parks promise thrills for families. Marbella’s park opens at Arroyo Primero football field from Sunday December 28, while San Pedro’s transforms El Arquillo sports complex over the same period. Attractions include ice rinks, bouncy castles, giant slides and train rides.
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nto de Marbella
Central Christmas tree, San Pedro de Alcantara.
Children can enjoy child-friendly New Year’s Eve countdowns. Marbella hosts mini campanadas in Plaza del Mercado, while San Pedro’s event takes place in Plaza de la Iglesia on Friday, December 26. Marbella’s karaoke night in Plaza de la Iglesia supports local food banks with dance performances and raffles, while San Pedro’s Boulevard fundraiser features food stalls, inflatables, face painting, flamenco and a prize draw for the “Reyes por un Día” initiative.
Rock legends revived THE Costa Del Sol’s leading 80s glam rock cover band, Stereo 80, will ignite Premiere Club Marbella with a high-energy show on Friday, December 26. Those looking for a raucous post-Christmas night out can expect a full-throttle tribute to the biggest hair-metal and hard-rock anthems of the era, featuring spot-on renditions of Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, Mötley Crüe, Def Leppard, Guns N’ Roses, Kiss, and Europe. From soaring choruses and epic guitar solos to theatrical stage presence, Stereo 80 delivers pure rock rebellion, singalongs, and non-stop
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Stereo 80 on stage.
dancing. Since opening in 2001, Premiere Club has been a cornerstone of Marbella’s rock music scene, famed for its free-entry live gigs, powerful sound system, electric atmosphere, and friendly feel welcoming rock fans of all ages (over 18s only). Doors open at 11.30pm,
making it the perfect way to burn off festive calories and kick-start the weekend with classic 80s glam. Entry is completely free – arrive early for the best spot on the dance floor. Venue: Premiere Club Marbella, Plaza de los Olivos, 2, Marbella.
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Soft-top dreams.
LOOKING for a unique Christmas holiday activity in Malaga? Visit the Museo del Automóvil y la Moda for its new temporary exhibition, “La Ruta del Cabrio” (The Convertible Route), celebrating the timeless appeal of open-top cars. The festive showcase features eight iconic convertible models, tracing the evolution of roofless driving from classic European roadsters to American pony cars. Made possible through collaboration with the Club de Vehículos Deportivos del Sur de Europa, it highlights vehicles symbolising freedom, elegance and the joy of open-road travel. Standout exhibits include the 1960s Lancia Flavia Cabrio, a sophisticated Italian design by Pininfarina; the Alfa Romeo Giu-
lia Spider, embodying “Dolce Vita” charm; the powerful Ford Mustang Cabrio V8, an American icon; the elegant 1950s Mercedes-Benz 190 SL; and the bestselling British MGB 1800cc, prized for its fun, lightweight handling. This visually stunning display combines design, engineering and automotive aesthetics. Ideal for families, motoring enthusiasts or anyone seeking a break from traditional festivities. The exhibition runs until Monday January 5. The museum, at Avenida de Sor Teresa Prat, 15, Carretera de Cádiz, Malaga, is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 2.30pm and 4pm to 7pm. Admission: £12 general, £10 seniors, £8 unemployed (with proof), free for children aged 5 and under.
A FAMILY-RUN restaurant perched high above the picturesque white village of Casares has earned a place in the prestigious Michelin Guide. Sarmiento Brasa Andaluza, led by brothers Juan Diego and Miguel Sarmiento, occupies a converted family home with stunning terraces offering panoramic views of what many regard as Spain’s most beautiful pueblo blanco. Michelin inspectors highlighted the “wonderful terraces with the best views” and a menu firmly rooted in traditional Andalusian cuisine. The restaurant excels in grilled dishes, showcasing premium local produce from land and sea. Grilled meats take centre stage, with game and the especially tender Malaga young goat (chivo malagueño) and matured cuts. Starters include
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Convertible Christmas Taste of Malaga mountains
Mountain top Sarmiento Brasa Andaluza.
creamy pringá croquettes, grilled artichokes, wild mushrooms, farmfresh eggs and goat sweetbreads. Fresh fish and a strong selection of regional wines complete the offering, emphasising seasonal, high-quality ingredients. Meals are moderately priced at around €40 per person for starter and main, excluding drinks – excellent value for the setting and produce. Whether for a roman-
tic sunset dinner or a leisurely lunch admiring the panoramic vistas, Sarmiento Brasa Andaluza exceeds expectations and is highly recommended for anyone exploring the western Costa del Sol. It’s a must-visit for foodies seeking the real taste of Andalusian flavours in a breathtaking location. To book a table, contact: +34 952 895 035 Carretera de Casares km 12.5, 29690 Casares, Spain
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WITH the festive season underway on the Costa del Sol, there’s truly no need to feel lonely at Christmas. The American Club of Estepona (ACE) provides a warm, welcoming haven – a place where everyone knows your name. This charitable, non-profit social club has served as a vital hub for the expatriate community since the 1970s. It began as a gathering spot for American residents sharing stories and support. Today, British members primarily run it, but it remains open and inclusive to all nationalities, whether residents or visitors. The club opens its doors daily from 1pm to 4pm at Calle San Roque 69, just west of ABC Square in central Estepona. Step inside and enjoy the volunteer-run bar’s affordable refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere
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ACE Club in Estepona Lyrical spectacular
Opera and Zarzuela - Dreams in Malaga.
American Club Estepona get together.
perfect for conversation and companionship. Other than drinks, ACE offers engaging activities: pool and darts, sewing club, tai chi, dancing lessons with Martha Singh, AA meetings, and festive highlights like Christmas carols. Themed events, quizzes, outings, and gatherings create laughter, new friendships, and a real sense of belonging. ACE actively combats
isolation through genuine warmth and community spirit. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime regular, you’ll feel right at home. Simply pop by during opening hours, message their Facebook page (American Club Estepona - ACE), or call +34 951 56 34 06 (1pm-4pm Monday to Saturday). Come for a drink, a chat, or an activity – friendly faces await.
OPERA & ZARZUELA DREAMS arrives in Malaga for a single, spectacular performance on Saturday, December 27 at 8.30 pm at the Palacio de Deportes Martín Carpena. Directed cinematically by Álvaro Sáenz de Heredia and featuring the Orquesta Sinfónica de Malaga for the first time, this ambitious production unites internationally acclaimed tenors and sopranos - Bernardino Atienza, José Darío, and Eduvigis Moragas - together with live chorus and ballet. The show presents the 20 most iconic arias from opera and zarzuela, including “Nessun dorma” (Turandot), “Toreador” (Carmen), and “E lucevan le stelle” (Tosca). The stunning staging: a giant LED screen with over 20 synchronised audiovisual sets,
two auxiliary screens for perfect visibility, and a seamless fusion of cinema, theatre, and live music makes that the show creates an unforgettable multisensory experience. Javier Bahillo, president of producer Grupo IMC, calls it “the greatest and most complete lyric spectacle currently available anywhere in the world.” After selling out over 60 performances and attracting more than 40,000 spectators at Madrid’s Teatro Rialto this summer, it now comes to Malaga. Tickets are on sale for €37 now at www. operayzarzuela.com. Organisers urge early purchase as several seating areas are already selling out fast. Don’t miss Malaga’s standout Christmas lyric event of the season.
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TORREMOLINOS hosts a wild blues celebration as the Sociedad del Blues de Malaga celebrates its 13th anniversary with a festival at the Clarence Jazz Club. The intimate venue features a “Southern Reunion” showcasing top Costa del Sol talents and special guests. Headlining is New York-born singer Suzette Moncrief, of Puerto Rican descent and a long-time Spain resident. Known for passionate performances in soul, funk, blues, jazz and rock, she has played Malaga’s Teatro Cervantes and collaborated with leading artists. Joining her is American blues veteran Richard Ray Farrell from Niagara Falls, New York. He hitchhiked across Europe young, busking in Paris and inspired by legends like Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson. Farrell has opened for Joe Cocker,
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Blues society anniversary Bridging generations
Age Concern - a community that defies loneliness.
Richard Ray Farrell & Suzette Moncrief.
shared stages with RL Burnside and now lives in Spain, delivering gritty vocals, electric guitar and harmonica. Also appearing are local favourites Lito, Pepe Salas, David Quintero, Fernando Beiztegui, Raúl Ranea and Nasho on vocals and guitar; bassists Ángel Quintero and Javier Martín; pianist Álex Serrano; and drummers
Claudio Tamer and Olmo Sánchez. The night ends in a grand jam session. The society has promoted blues regionally for 13 years. Tickets are €20 for Zone A (rows 1-3) and €15 for Zone B. Fans should attend this high-energy event. Clarence is on Calle Danza Invisible, Torremolinos.
AGE CONCERN MARBELLA - SAN PEDRO enriches the lives of English-speaking expats on the Costa del Sol. Often seen as supporting only the elderly, it welcomes all ages to events and activities, building an inclusive community full of connections. A key strength is its intergenerational work, partnering with local schools to bridge young and old. These projects educate children about ageing issues, while seniors gain from youthful energy, fun, and sharing wisdom. A recent example occurred on December 19, when Sonia Alvarez of Levelup Language Academy in San Pedro invited members to meet enthusiastic 7- and 8-year-old Spanish students. The session started with introductions but soon featured children practising English, discussing hobbies and delighting the adults.
With growing confidence, everyone enjoyed refreshments, then split into teams for crafting Christmas cards, arts and crafts, or games. Seeing generations collaborate, laugh, and learn together was heartwarming. Children interacted with new adults; seniors received an uplifting boost. During the festive season, such events fight loneliness, highlighting Age Concern’s warmth. Activities include coffee mornings at venues like Neil G’s, Hapimag, El Barracon, Urban Chai, and Pandora; group lunches; book and stitchers groups; Spanish lessons; exercise; tech help; workshops; outings; and fundraisers. Call +34 689 35 51 98 (weekdays 10am-6pm), email info@ageconcernmar bella.com, or visit Pasaje Armando Nº2, San Pedro Alcantara. Drop in for coffee- you’ll feel at home!
Crimson letters exhibition ESTEPONA’s vibrant cultural scene welcomes a captivating new exhibition by Barcelona-born artist Ana María Villalobos, a long-time resident of the town. Titled Lecturas Carmesí (Crimson Readings), the show opened earlier in December at the Casa de Las Tejerinas cultural centre and features 16 medium to large-format paintings showcasing her distinctive signature style. Having lived in Estepona for over three decades, she specialises in female portraits and figures, exploring complex emotions and the evolving role of women. Her works create a poignant dialogue between tradition - represented by collaged pages from out-of-print books - and the modernity of young women, achieved through contemporary techniques. Eco-conscious materials are integral to her
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Works by Ana Villalobas.
practice: she uses recycled supports like wood, cardboard, foam board, or recovered canvases, combined with mixed media such as collage, découpage, and acrylic paints - her preferred medium after starting with oils. The crimson tones evoked by the title symbolise passion, intensity, and the literary heritage woven into her compositions. Villalobos has established a strong local presence with solo and group
exhibitions across Malaga province, including previous displays at Casa de Las Tejerinas, the Malaga Botanical Garden, and Artlocker. Supported by Estepona Town Hall, this exhibition continues her innovative exploration of femininity. Visitors are invited to this thoughtful collection, running until January 12 in Sala 2, Plaza de las Flores. Open Tuesdays– Fridays 9am–8pm; Saturdays 9am–2pm and 4pm– 8pm. Free admission.
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Benalrock rocking the Motos.
LOCAL rock fans are gearing up for a high-octane festive highlight as Benalrock returns to the stage at El Bar de las Motos on Saturday, December 27. Known as one of the Costa del Sol’s most raucous grassroots bands, the group is set to deliver a powerful tribute to the golden era of Spanish rock. The setlist features legendary anthems from iconic acts including Heroes del Silencio, Loquillo, Burning, La Frontera, and Rosendo. Benalrock has earned a loyal following across Malaga for their high-energy performances, blending classic spirit with their own wild, signature touch. The music kicks off at 10pm at El Bar de las Motos, a renowned hub
for bikers and live music enthusiasts. Given the venue’s popularity and the festive date, organisers recommend arriving early to secure a spot, as the bar is expected to reach capacity quickly. Whether you’re a fan of “Entre dos tierras” or “Cadillac solitario,” this gig offers a passionate live experience designed to get the crowd moving. Entry is free with no tickets required - simply show up, grab a drink, and enjoy authentic rock nostalgia. For those in Malaga or Torremolinos looking for great music and a lively atmosphere, this is the ultimate way to close out the week. Bar de la Motos can be found on Avenida del Tivoli, Arroyo de La Miel.
Costa soul warmth Credit IK
MARBELLA soul singer Ivanildo Kembel swapped the Costa del Sol’s sunshine for the spotlight in the Netherlands earlier this month, supporting one of the country’s top stars. The charismatic Dutch performer, a familiar face at venues such as Joys Live and La Sala in Puerto Banús, was invited as the special guest act for Jeroen van der Boom’s acclaimed The Pianoman concert series at Rotterdam Ahoy. The vast arena, often Ivanildo Kembel in Rotterdam. likened to London’s O2, hosted four sold-out shows in De- touch of Mediterranean warmth to the cember, transforming its RTM Stage Dutch winter. “It was an absolute honour to suinto the Netherlands’ largest piano bar. Thousands of fans attended each pport Jeroen in such a massive venight for an interactive evening of nue,” Ivanildo said. “The energy from classics, hits and audience requests, the audience was incredible, and with Van der Boom at the grand piano sharing the stage in my home country while representing the Costa del Sol performing. Ivanildo opened the shows with a felt extra special.” Local fans on the Costa del Sol, high-energy set blending soulful Motown, pop anthems, reggae rhythms who have followed his journey from and party favourites. His powerful regional gigs to national television on voice and infectious presence quickly The Voice of Holland, expressed prihad crowds on their feet, bringing a de in his achievement.
THIS is the last opportunity to catch “Una historia de Pop Art”, a wonderfully fun and vibrant exhibition by Navarra-born artist Javier Melús currently on display at the iconic Casa de los Navajas before it closes on December 28. The show, is a colourful journey through contemporary Pop Art featuring some of Melús’ most representative works, characterised by their instantly recognisable bold flat colours, comic-book Andrea Motis in concert. aesthetics, strong graphic Melús with one of his works. impact and witty references contemporary art. to advertising, cinema, mass The exhibition is still open to the public media and popular culture. Far from being purely decorative, Melús’ free of charge at Casa de los Navajas (Topieces use irony, visual puns and a critical rremolinos) from Wednesday to Sunday, ineye to invite viewers to question the sub- cluding public holidays, between 10.30am jects and narratives that surround us every to 2pm and 3pm to 6.30pm. Javier Melús (Tudela, Navarra, 1961), a day. Described as standing “at the cross- self-taught painter, has exhibited widely roads between the iconic and the every- across Spain and internationally in cities day,” the artist’s work renews the classic including Miami, Paris, Dubai and LuxemPop Art language with a deeply personal bourg. His pieces are now found in private and contemporary Spanish perspective, collections across more than 20 countries. Casa de la Navajas is in Calle Antonio earning him a dedicated following among both private collectors and specialists in Navajas Ruiz - Bajondillo, Torremolinos. Adam Woodward
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Motos bar 80s rock Pop art puns
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1,000 faces of Manuela Artisan market Trocadero
Paintings by Manuela Vilches Quesada.
MARBELLA’S Museo Del Grabado Español Contemporáneo is honouring the late art gallerist Manuela Vilches Quesada with a special exhibition, “Las mil caras de Manuela: Galería de retratos de Manuela Vilches Quesada.” Open until the end of December, the show pays tribute to the woman who was a central figure in Marbella’s cultural landscape for four decades. Vilches Quesada, who died on February 4 this year, maintained a strong connection to the Museo del Grabado since its 1992 founding. Curated by Paloma Biyú, the exhibition features two sections: Sala 8 displays memorial works by 17 artists, and Sala 9 presents portraits of the gallerist from her private collection.
A tireless promoter of contemporary Spanish art, Vilches Quesada opened her first Marbella gallery in 1984, debuting with a show by César Manrique. Her gallery became a vital platform for artists including Fernando Brinkmann, Paco Peinado, and Guillermo Pérez-Villalta, alongside masters like Antoni Tàpies and Fernando Zóbel. Her influence reached internationally, with her participation in fairs across the United States, Japan, and the UAE. She was also a founding supporter of Spain’s prestigious ARCO International Art Fair. The exhibition celebrates her profound legacy as a passionate advocate for contemporary Spanish art and engraving. The museum is located on Calle Hospital Bazán, Marbella.
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ARTISAN market curator Helen Stanley of Champagne Lifestyle is launching the new year with a special Three Kings edition of her popular designer and artisan market, timed perfectly for Spain’s Reyes Magos celebrations. Following successful events across the Costa del Sol - including the Kempinski Hotel Bahía gardens, La Cala Resort, and Paloma Blanca Boutique Hotel - Helen is bringing her sophisticated, creative markets to a glamorous new venue. On Saturday, January 3, from 12pm to 5pm, the iconic Trocadero Estepo-
Helen’s Christmas
na beach club will host the exclusive Three Kings Soho Market. Renowned for its chic beachfront location and elegant atmosphere, Trocadero offers an ideal setting for relaxed shopping amid the mid-Christmas festivities. Visitors can browse unique stalls featuring handcrafted jewellery, designer fashion, luxury accessories, artisanal skincare, fine art, and distinctive homeware. Highlights include Helen’s own Champagne Lifestyle collections, plus works from talented creators who have appeared in previous markets. This edition aligns
market
with Spain’s cherished Three Kings traditions, providing last-minute opportunities to find special, heartfelt gifts made by dedicated artisans. Helen’s markets have become a beloved fixture on the western Costa del Sol, known for connecting shoppers directly with creators in stylish venues. This event combines luxury, craftsmanship, and stunning sea views. Entry is free. Join this glamorous kickoff to 2026 at Trocadero Estepona, located on Calle Terral, 2, Estepona- a celebration of style and coastal living.
Sun and Thunder line-up SUN AND THUNDER 2026 is set to shake the Costa del Sol with a recently announced powerhouse line-up, and tickets are already on sale. The international metal festival will take place from August 27 to 29 at Marenostrum Fuengirola, right on the beachfront, promising three days of unforgettable performances for fans from across Europe. Headlining the festival are Twisted Sister from the United States, celebrating their 50th anniversary. After a decade-long break from touring, the New York band returns to deliver their most famous anthems, including We’re Not Gonna Take It and I Wanna Rock. German power metal project Avantasia will perform their only Spanish show in 2026, presenting theatrical performances with guest vocalists from across the international metal scene.
Northern Europe is strongly represented, with Finland’s Lordi marking the 20th anniversary of The Arockalypse, and Faroe Islands singer Eivør bringing her striking voice and atmospheric, folk-inspired sound to the festival. Germany’s Primal Fear and Destruction bring heavy and thrash metal intensity, while Austria’s Harakiri for the Sky, Portugal’s Gaerea, and London-based Calva Louise add contemporary European variety. From the United States, Adam and the Metal Hawks and thrash supergroup Nefarious deliver high-energy performances. Spanish acts Debler, Vendetta FM, Sovengar, and Fuengirola’s Airos complete the line-up, ensuring local representation. The festival runs for three days, with a single-stage format. Tickets are available at www.sunandthunderfest.com.