The festive season begins
THE annual tree lighting ceremony will see Mr Pursche, General Manager, the Kempinski Hotel Bahía team, and visitors count down to the illumination of the tree, which will take place on Saturday, November 30. The event is hailed locally as ‘When Christmas officially begins in Estepona!’
LAVAZZA presents a tribute to the musicals of Andrew Lloyd Webber at the Salon Variétes, Fuengirola.
Curtain Up! The Lloyd Webber Special is being presented on Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1. Joining Ricky on stage will be some of the Costa del Sol’s finest singing talent - Emma Prothero, Gemma Lloyd, and Juliet Williams - to celebrate the very best of Andrew Lloyd Webber, widely considered the best and most prolific stage musical composer of all time.
Love to sing Christmas Curtain UP!
Ricky Lavazza and co. will be performing songs from such popular greats as Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Starlight Express, Whistle Down the Wind, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and many more.
Recently, Ricky took to Facebook to announce he would also be accompanied on stage by some very talented kids, namely Liva, Olivia, Lily, Dottie, Savannah, and Harrison from Club DanSing and Stagecoach for Joseph & Whistle
Down The Wind for songs from Whistle Down the Wind and Joseph.
The Saturday, November 30 show begins at 7.30pm, while the Sunday, December 1 concert begins slightly earlier at 7pm. The Salon Variétes box office opens between 11am and 2.30pm from Monday to Friday on Calle Emancipation, Fuengirola Centre. The box office also opens one hour before each performance. Alternatively, tickets can be bought at the website www.salonvarie tes.com or by phoning 952 475 542. Tickets cost €20.
This year, the Christmas Market is expanding and introducing new and exciting activities for the whole family. Stalls will feature gastronomic delights, such as local honey, sweets, handmade chocolates, roasted coffee, and, of course, wines and olive oils, alongside handcrafted items, beautiful jewellery, and those perfect Christmas gifts.
This year, the hotel will also bring back the popular children’s area, with more stalls, fun activities for kids, face painting, and two bouncy castles. Santa Claus will make a special appearance, working ex-
tra hard this year to hear all the children’s Christmas wishes and personally collect their letters to him. While the children play, parents can shop or enjoy one of the two bars that will be available throughout the day.
The market will open from 1pm to 8pm, with choirs singing at various times during the day. Santa Claus will be present from 4.30pm until late, passing through the lobby to light the tree just as the sun goes down. The event is open to the public.
Kempinski Hotel Bahía can be found on Carretera de Cadiz (direction Marbella), Km 1066, Estepona.
THE Love to Sing Choir, in collaboration with Estepona Town Hall, are returning once more to the Auditorium at El Mirador del Carmen in Estepona.
This time, they will give a rousing concert of warming Christmas favourites to usher in the festivities. The Auditorium El Mirador del Carmen will open its doors on Friday, December 13 at 7pm with the concert starting at 7.30pm. Seating is limited, so don’t forget to arrive early to ensure a seat.
The choir will be accepting donations after the show in aid of the Spanish Association against Cancer, Estepona.
The Estepona headquarters of the AECC are in Calle Terraza 170, where they have
been offering care services to cancer patients and their families since 2023.
With the support of the Provincial Board of the AECC of Malaga, they offer essential services for cancer patients and their families free of charge, including psychological care, physiotherapeutic care, social counselling, the loan of orthoprosthetic material, and accompaniment to hospital.
The AECC also offers free yoga workshops, handicrafts, sewing, dance, fan painting, and English classes.
For this reason, charitable events, such as the Love to Sing Choir concerts, are so important for keeping the work of their volunteers going.
RICKY
Photo: Facebook / Ricky Lavazza
Adam Woodward
Authentic Blues Marbella language exchange
HAVING played with some of the greats of the Blues, Richard Ray Farrell brings his guitar and harmonica to Fuengirola. Richard Ray Farrell is the real deal - a Blues artist who lives the Blues as much as he sings it. From New York, he decided to hitchhike around Europe, not knowing where he would end up. More than 35 years as a travelling bluesman have earned him a reputation as top-notch talent on the scene.
He started out as a busker on the streets of Paris, playing his influences, including Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson, literally a ‘po’ boy long way from home’. Richard worked his way up from the subways and streets of cities throughout the continent, even
gious stages in Europe with some of the giants of traditional American blues music.
He lived the life of a true gypsy for years, and actually lived with a gypsy family for some time in Spain in the late 1970s. Richard opened for Joe Cocker at the Backnang Open Air Festival in Germany. He even toured with Blues greats such as RL Burnside for a period.
Friday, November 29, the Richard Ray Farrell Trio play the Clarence Jazz Club in Torremolinos at 10pm. Tickets are €15 from the box office or the Clarence Jazz Club website.
Marc Menendez-Roche FANCY a natter? Marbella’s English-Spanish conversation exchange kicks off again on Thursday, November 28.
Dust off your Spanish phrasebook or bring your British wit to Bar La Escalera on Thursday night, November 28, for the International Language Exchange & Cultural Mixer.
The event, which runs from 8pm to 11pm on November 28, is a chatterbox’s dream come true. Whether you’re a Spaniard eager to polish your English or a foreigner wanting to banter in Spanish, this lively meetup promises plenty of laughs, learning, and new friendships.
Bilingual speakers, international students, and globe-trotters alike are all welcome. If you fancy yourself a social butterfly or just want to improve
your language game, this is your chance.
Don’t miss out on this perfect blend of learning and leisure right in the heart of Marbella.
So, if you live on a ground floor, throw your dictionary out of the window and head to Bar La Escalera - where languages mingle and connections springle. Will you
master the art of conversation or just enjoy the international vibe? There’s only one way to find out. It’s the perfect chance to swap your ‘hola’ for ‘hello’ and meet people from all walks of life while sipping on your favourite tipple.
Lost in translation no more - Marbella’s hottest language event is back.
Ctra. Mijas, Urb. Las Yucas, No. 1, Mijas – Málaga
Richard Ray Farrell.
Group of excited Spanish learners smiling.
Hit the Bullseye at The Clubhouse Marbella!
EXPERIENCE darts like never before at The Clubhouse Marbella with Dartsee’s advanced, interactive dartboards. Bringing a modern twist to the classic game, these high-tech dartboards are perfect for challenging friends, family, or even yourself.
Located in the heart of Puerto Banus, The Clubhouse Marbella offers the ideal environment for dining, entertainment, and competitive socialising, making it the ultimate spot to elevate your dart game on the Costa del Sol.
These Dartsee boards go beyond traditional darts by providing multiple game modes and challenges to suit all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, there’s a game for everyone. Test your skills in classic ‘501’, or explore new modes designed to add variety and excitement to your session. The boards are equipped with advanced tracking technology to enhance gameplay, so each throw is precisely recorded and scored, allowing you to focus on the fun and strategy.
Pricing options ensure flexibility for players looking to enjoy a quick match or a longer, competitive session:
30-Minute Session: €25 - Perfect
for a quick game or a friendly challenge to warm up.
One-Hour Session: €40 - A great choice for extended play, giving you time to explore various game modes and test your skills.
Join us at The Clubhouse Marbella to throw like a pro. Whether you’re challenging friends or embracing the thrill of solo play, our Dartsee interactive boards deliver a fun, memorable experience. Aim for a winning night out
Free classical concert
IBERIAN Sinfonietta’s series of Community Concerts, bringing Classical music closer to the people, continues its series with a Classical guitarist leading the orchestra.
Coming from a family of musicians, Fuengirola presents the absolute premiere of Montenegro Airs. A concerto for guitar and orchestra by Alejandro Román with the Divertimento for string orchestra by Béla Bártok.
Born in Sevilla into a family of notable musicians, Alejandro Román began his musical training with his father, Antonio Calero, attending elementary and professional guitar degrees at the CEM conservatories. He expands his artistic training by attending international courses taught by great guitar
masters, such as Pepe Romero, David Russell, Manuel Barrueco, Roland Dyens, and Oscar Ghiglia, among others.
This event is part of the Community Concerts cycle for 202425 and features eight events in which prominent soloists and groups will join the Iberian Sinfonietta orchestra, which aims to showcase emerging orchestral talent alongside well-known Classical music artists. All the concerts in the Community Concerts cycle are free of charge, promoting access to high-quality cultural activities for everyone in Fuengirola.
The concert is open to the public free of charge on Saturday, November 30 at the Palacio de la Paz, Calle Recinto serial, Fuengirola, at 7pm. Seats will be given on a first-come-first-serve basis until the auditorium is full.
Iberian Sinfonietta of Fuengirola.
Credit: iberiansinfonietta.com
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Winter art Dinner with strangers
A FUNDRAISER event in aid of the AFESOL Estepona Mental Health association aims to raise awareness about mental health issues.
Paying tribute to the recently deceased Alfonso Hervás, art teacher and psychologist at AFESOL, the event is billed as a ‘magical moment’ the organisers have explained will consist of, highlighting the collective exhibi-
tion ‘Arte de Invierno’ that will show the latest works made by AFESOL patients under the coordination of their teacher Alfonso Hervás. Artworks will be sold at the event and the funds raised will directly to the charity organisation.
The event is taking place on Friday, November 29 at 6pm at the AFESOL building in the Arena Beach urbanisation. There will be a narration
of a Christmas story, and at 6.30pm you can enjoy the clarinet performance of Juan Jr. At 7pm it will be time for the inauguration of the Nativity scene made mostly with recycled materials at the AFESOL centre. There will also be a Christmas Market and attendees will be invited to a welcoming drink and tasting of hot mulled wine and traditional Swedish cakes.
TIRED of the same old date nights? Marbella’s Dinner with Strangers: Couples Edition is spicing things up this Friday, November 29, from 7 to 9pm at a secret location in the city.
Here’s the deal: you sign up, answer a few fun questions about your tastes and hobbies, and let the organisers book the perfect restaurant. Then, you and your partner dine with other adventurous couples, turning strangers into potential friends.
Seats are limited, with a cosy 10-person max, so don’t miss out. Dinner’s not included, but spontaneity and good company
Social meetups in Fuengirola
THIS vibrant group hosts casual meetups to connect locals, expats, and tourists alike. Think of it as a one-stop shop for making friends and exploring Fuengirola in good company.
You can stay in the loop by following them on Instagram, joining their Telegram group, or reaching out to Andrés, the organiser, through WhatsApp. Visit the gosocial.es for
details.
GoSocial’s meetups are the perfect chance to turn strangers into new
friends, whether you’re after a chat, a drink, or just a great time in sunny Fuengirola. So why not take the plunge? Make your move, meet new people, and maybe even discover a side of Fuengirola you didn’t know existed.
No one should feel lonely when a new social life is just a click away. Your new friends are waiting.
are on the menu. Will you dare to join?
Please visit the Eventbrite website for details.
Credit: Eventbrite, Ermantourage Hollywood.
Nativity scene.
Dinner with strangers: Marbella’s mystery mingle for couples.
New in Fuengirola?
GoSocial has you covered
Rotary charity golf
ROTARY CLUB Marbella Guadalmina are organising a charity golf tournament, ‘The President’s Charity Golf Cup’ at the prestigious Los Flamingos Golf Course at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Benahavis, on Monday, December 2. The 18-hole, 5,700-square-metre, par 71 layout was designed by the famous architect, Antonio Garrido.
The event has been generously sponsored by Talk Radio Europe. Other companies, including Ibex Insurance, Aaura Dental, Euro Economics, Continental Design Group, Mara Collections, Clinica,
and Dra. Matas, are also backing the event.
The charity tournament will give participants a chance to
play at this famous golf course and also help raise funds for Afesol and other charities supported by Rotary.
Registration begins between 8am and 8.45am with a maximum of 52 players. Shotgun starts at 9.30am.
Bipolar realism
ARTIST David Pascual Arroyo is giving a rare glimpse into his prolific collection of works at the Torremolinos Town Hall, where he no longer expresses pain he feels, but the light and colour of being bipolar type 1.
The paintings and drawings, promoted by AFESOL, the association of people with mental health disorders and their families, is a retrospective of the last six years of his work, and full of joy and fun, often with rich juxtaposed hues, showing a looser
and more content side of the artist, bringing an inevitable smile to the face of every viewer. The exhibition is composed of samples from two collections: Nueva Realidad - representation of before and after the pandemic; and Bipolar Circus - contrasts in emotional states.
Diptychs feature heavily in the exhibition, with one upside down or the same image painted with different colours, and others contrasting emotional states. I asked David if one of the images was
a portrait of a bipolar friend, to which he responded, ‘No, he’s just drunk in that one.’
He has marked a difference, not only in his freer style but also in his portrait of post-pandemic faces, a before and after, a contrast that is also seen in which medium he chooses.
David Pascual Arroyo’s works are on show at the Torremolinos Town Hall from Monday to Friday, 9am to 1.30pm until January 24, 2025.
Credit: Anantara Villa Padierna Palace.
AECC charity auction
THE Spanish association against cancer in Estepona is holding a fundraising auction on Friday, November 29 at 5pm.
Everything being auctioned is a donation and is brand new, including items of furniture, decorative pieces and other household items. Doors open at 5pm for bidders to eye the lots on offer, and the auctioneer will open bidding at 6pm. Bring cash to pay for successful bids. Cards are not accepted. The auction is taking place
at 170 Calle Terraza.
The AECC charity provides free services such as psychological support, workshops, help attending appointments, palliative care, physiotherapy during recovery, and help with social security or disability payments. The charity counts on more than 30,000 volunteers across the country whose work covers various areas of activity such as support, presence in hospitals or the organisation of events such as this one.
Dalí in Mijas
MIJAS is hosting an exhibition in which Salvador Dalí visits Dante Alighieri’s ‘Purgatory’. With a total of 33 works to savour and be surprised by, the exhibition of illustrations is on at the Contemporary Art Centre (CAC) until March 2025.
Locals and visitors to Mijas will be able to enjoy one of the most important projects of the surrealist painter Salvador Dalí, as he himself said in his day. Councillor Mario Bravo is encouraging everyo-
ne to take advantage of this unique opportunity to witness these marvellous works while they still can. “Everyone should come and participate in this cultural activity, where in addition, within the museum, we have a permanent exhibition of all Picasso’s ceramics and another part of the exhibition dedicated to Dalí.”
In 1965, halfway through his life, on the occasion of the 700th anniversary of Dante Alighieri’s death, Dalí received a commission
from the Italian government to illustrate the three songs that make up the ‘Divine Comedy’. A total of 33 works for each, plus one for the introduction, which make a hundred scenes of a project that brought together two geniuses and that can now be enjoyed in Mijas.
The Centro de Arte Contemporáneo in Calle Malaga, 28. Mijas, is open 10.30am to 2pm from Monday to Saturday. Entry fee is €3, and free for five years old and younger.
Credit: CAC Mijas.
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Celebrate the Festive Season at Luigi’s
RECENTLY relaunched under new ownership, Luigi’s in El Zoco is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year. This family-run restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with owner and Head Chef Ryan crafting menus that combine festive flair with culinary excellence.
For Christmas, indulge in Luigi’s special menu for €50 per person, featu ring live entertainment by Andy Time. Start with Crab, Italian Meatball Soup, or a Celeriac and Apple Salad. Choose from Venison, Traditional Turkey, or Atlantic Cod for the main course, and finish with either Chocolate Yule Log or the spectacular Baked Alaska. Limited availability remains for Christmas Day, so early booking is essential.
brunch accompanied by live entertainment from the talented James Ray. The regular menu will also be available, making it a delightful way to start 2025.
Luigi’s is open Wednesday to Friday from 6.00pm until late, and Saturday and Sunday from 12.00pm. Sunday Lunch is a popular choice, with a two-course meal for €20 or three courses for €25, including live entertainment.
On New Year’s Day, enjoy a fabulous
This vibrant new addition to the El Zoco dining scene is already receiving rave reviews for its delicious food and inviting at- mosphere. Whether celebrating with family or friends, Luigi’s is the place to be this holiday season.
To reserve your table, call 620 821 244. Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable meals and great company at Luigi’s.
New talent showcase
LEON Events in collaboration with arts collective Artsenal Inoxis, are presenting a music showcase in Alhaurín el Grande on Saturday, November 30.
This event hopes to promote highly talented upcoming local talent far from the regular hum-drum and same-old sounds at events and venues in the Malaga Province and Costa del Sol.
spin on current hits.
The showcase, being held at the art space Artsenal Inoxis in Alhaurín el Grande, starts on Saturday, November 30 at 8.30pm, and hosted by multi-faceted and delightful MC Leon Patras. There will also be DJ and singer Charlton Greene covering everything from Crooners classics to his own
Featuring the talents of Chelsea, a highly regarded singer and dancer, with Tatan the brilliant pianist; singer and pianist Azarielle will be enthralling the audience with her jazzy swing repertoire; performer Sonia Mùsica, adept with a full band or backing tracks, will be singing all-time classics; and there will be Jazz, Soul and Bossa coolness from Rebecca Lane, perfect for any occasion, the showcase will
be an eye-opener for anyone looking for original talent.
Due to an excellent response, this first showcase is already nearly fully booked; however, performers are welcome to get in touch to book the last available slot or to reserve their place on the next one, which Leon Events and Artsenal Inoxis hold every hree months.
Artsenal Inoxis is situated in Camino de la Reina 3, Alhaurín el Grande. Entry is free.
Go bananas in Benalmadena
Festive Fuengirola
FUENGIROLA’S Christmas Market begins on Friday, November 29, bringing families and children together in the Plaza de la Constitución.
This year, the Christmas Market will have 17 wooden cabins. In them, local shops will be able to offer their Christmas products to everyone, filling them with the Christmas spirit.
BENALMADENA is going absolutely ape for healthy eating this Friday, November 29, with its Día de la Fruta extravaganza. Organised by the local Delegación de
Educación, this event is all about promoting a healthy lifestyle - starting with everyone’s five-a-day.
While the details are a bit more mysterious than the Loch Ness Monster (location still under wraps), the aim is crystal clear: encouraging locals to swap crisps for kiwis and chocolate bars for bananas.
Stay tuned for updates, and remember - an apple a day might just keep the doctor (or at least your guilty conscience) away.
Opening at 8.30pm, the shops taking part in the market will begin receiving festive shoppers, and every Saturday of the market, families and children will be able to enjoy the popular ‘nevada’ fake snowstorm.
The market is opening on the same day as the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights, which takes place in the Plaza de España at 7.30pm, while shortly prior to that, at 6.30pm, the inauguration of the Nativity Scene in the museum of Fuengirola.
Simultaneously, down the road in Los Boliches, there will be Christmas music and a ‘chocolatadas’ with thick hot chocolate on offer and traditions such as the zambomba, a musical instrument almost exclusively brought out at Christmas time, along with outdoor concerts at various points of Los Boliches.
Leon Events roster of artists.
Go bananas for Benalmadena’s ‘Fruit Day.’ Credit:
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Got talent?
THE Costa del Sol wants to know your talents. Entertainment is big business, and there is plenty of room for more performers.
Everyone knows that there are many hidden talents out there looking to make their break, either to make a stunning career or just entertain and earn a little extra.
On Friday, November 29, ‘Costa del Sol’s Got Talent’ is being held at Soho in Elviria, from 2pm and 6pm each day. No matter what your age, from 18 to 80, or what your talent - model, a singer,
dancer, musician, magician, comedian - LG Marbella Events wants to know what you have to offer.
Lisa Burgess, former TV stylist, is judging alongside Lawrence and Georgina Mawdsley, owners of LG Marbella Events. They will be making their lists of talent they can call upon to entertain the Costa del Sol in 2025.
On Friday, the first round of auditions will take place, leading to a shortlist of contestants that will then return
on Saturday, November 30 for a final audition. Those that impress the most will be added to LG Marbella Event’s roster of artists and offered the possibility of working as an entertainer at events along the Costa del Sol. Events can include weddings, charity events, parties, and clubs.
So, don’t just wait to be discovered; take your talent to ‘Costa del Sol’s Got Talent’ at Soho, Elviria, Centro Comercial Pino Golf, on Friday, November 29 between 2pm and 6pm.
Benalmadena treasure hunt
DROP the stuffy maps and pushy tour guides - Benalmadena Old Town has a new trick up its cobbled sleeves. Adventurers can now embark on an interactive treasure hunt that turns the charming streets of this Andalucian gem into your personal playground.
Fancy yourself a modern-day Indiana Jones? With just your smartphone, you can dive straight into this puzzle-packed quest. Download the app, pop in your access code, and voilà - Bob’s your uncle - the Old Town is yours to uncover.
This isn’t your average sightseeing arrangement. Each clue reveals a nugget of history or a slice of a local legend, bringing Benalmadena Old Town’s ancient structures and hidden treasures to life. Think of it as your very own interactive history book - only far
more fun.
From seasoned explorers to curious newcomers, the quest caters to all. Go solo for some introspective intrigue or team up with friends to crack the clues. Whether you’re out to compete or collaborate, it’s a day out that guarantees you’ll leave with a story or two to tell.
Put your brain to work as you solve riddles and puzzles, and navigate this little corner of history. Don’t
forget to take a breather, tuck into some tapas, or snap selfies at the Old Town’s picture-perfect landmarks.
Starting point: Castillo de El-Bil-Bil, 78 Avenida Antonio Machado, 29631 Benalmadena. Refunds: Up to seven days before the event (Eventbrite fees not refundable)
Price: Please visit the Eventbrite website for details.
Community needs you this Christmas
WITH the festive season fast approaching, Asociación Hadas Caradas (The Food Fairies) are once again spreading joy to orphanages in the Malaga Province with their annual Christmas gift appeal ‘Costa Christmas Collections’.
Here’s how you can help: purchase a new gift, wrap and label it with the age and gender of the intended recipient and leave at one of the dedicated drop points for collection.
There is a significantly large number of children currently living within orphanages across Malaga and gifts are therefore being collected for both boys and girls of all ages from newborn to 18. Please remember, only new gifts are accepted. The final date for drop off is Saturday December 7 and it’s fast approaching!
We really need the community to come together and make this Christmas an unforgettable one for those less fortunate. After all, there’s no better way
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to celebrate the season than by sharing kindness and joy, so please join Hadas Caradas and help make a difference, one gift at a time.
Our Dedicated Drop Points are:
Alhaurin el Grande: Halo Spa Salon
Torremolinos-Mijas: Martins Hair & Beauty Lounge, Cazbah Live Lounge, Bar Tuta, Snack Attack Calahonda-Elviria: Fabric Boutique, Calahonda International Baptist Church (Sunday Only 11am-12noon)
Marbella-Nueva Andalucia: British International School Marbella, The Harbour Restaurant & Bar, El Banco Restaurant (Aloha)
San Pedro-Estepona: Urban Chai Café, Deb’s Kitchen, Liams Quality Meats
For more information please feel free to contact jack@hadascaradas.org or visit Hadas Caradas on Social Media.
COSTA FOOD TOURS
IT’S no secret that pairing the wrong wine with food can spoil the whole experience; food and wine are made for each other (the concept of ‘what grows together, goes together’), and there’s no better opportunity to broaden your horizons than at Christmas.
With a very diverse wine industry, a vast array of grape varieties and some great quality, you don’t need to look beyond our borders. So here’s a few suggestions for those festive pairings.
WHITE WINES
Verdejo - the go to white wine for every occasion, its typical light-bodied, fruit-forward and well-balanced acidity make it very food-friendly. An excellent accompaniment to grilled and fried seafood, vegetables, salads, fresh cheese and grilled chicken.
Spanish Wines For Christmas
Godello - A recently revived grape variety from Galicia, these straw-coloured wines with good acidity, plenty of body and a little richness are the perfect match with roast turkey, creamy chicken or pasta, aged cheeses and bolder seafood such as lobster or crab.
Albariño - Again from Galicia, these wines are very light, fresh, crisp, with high acids and of a rich, floral, and aromatic character. The quality is generally consistently high and this wine is really Spain’s ultimate match for plain seafood (think boiled shrimp, oysters, clams).
RED WINES
Mencia - Another variety that has been much revived, young Mencía wines produce fresh wines with red fruit flavours, floral aromas and moderate tannins. It’s a revelation when you try it, and works well with cured meats, cheeses and is a surprising match for suckling pig!
Aged Tempanillo - The classic grape of Rioja, but a more modern style is also favoured from Ribero del Duero. Look for aged ‘reserva’ which offers a bit more character and think fruity and smooth with cherry, vanilla and good tannins. Perfect with beef and aged cheeses. Young Garnacha - Garnacha without ageing is very versatile. Flavours of strawberry and red grapefruit, moderate tannins and medium body make it very appealing. Great with cured meats and cheeses, but if you want a red with your roast turkey, this is the one.
To finish, with rich desserts, look no further than Malaga Dulce; the esteemed red dessert wine from Malaga which may just surprise you. And of course at midnight, don’t forget the Cava.
For the biggest choices around El Corte Ingles (and bigger Supercor), Al Campo and independent wine merchants are your best bet. However, don’t dismiss the discount retailers, both Aldi and Lidl have some great wines at exceptional prices. Experiment and elevate your dining experience this Christmas!
Social Christmas Lunch Marbella
MARK your calendars, as the first Christmas party of 2024 is heading to the one and only Paellas y Más - and trust us, it’s going to be a treat.
For just €35 a head, you’re in for a proper festive feast. Here’s the rundown:
Four delicious starters to share.
Five mouth-watering main dishes to pick from, including their famously tasty paellas.
Dessert, coffee, water, and wine, plus a large glass of wine with three hours of drinks included.
Feeling extra thirsty? Additional drinks can be ordered on the spot and paid for when they arrive.
Here’s the catch - it’s not a party without you. The group needs at least eight people to lock in this festive event, so RSVP quickly. Payment seals your spot, so don’t hang about.
In true Christmas spirit, an extra €2 will be added to the cost of your lunch for a wonderful cause. The funds go straight to the Fluffy Protection Fund to bring some festive cheer to rescued animals. As of October 31, the fund sits at €110.
But wait, hold on to your Christmas socks Sally Cinnamon, because there’s a twist to this tale; Hosts Mike and Co. will double whatever you contribute before Christmas.
For more info, head over to: www.meetup. com/es/marbella-food-and-wine-shenini gans
• RSVP deadline: Saturday, November 30, by 6 pm
• Festive lunch: Sunday, December 8, from 2pm to 5pm CET
• Location: Restaurante Paellas y Más, C. Hermanos Salom, 3, Marbella.
Abstract expressionism
CASA DE LA CULTURE in Torremolinos is hosting an exhibition of the abstract artist
Juan Bautista Galindo from November 22, to January 17, 2025.
The exhibition ‘Impressions and Colour’, by the Roquetas de Mar artist is just a sample of this prolific contemporary artist’s work in which he shows a space where colour comes to life in every corner and in every work.
The vibrant world of tones and forms unfolds before the viewer, inviting them to explore unique emotions, ideas, and perspectives.
Each piece is an outburst of creativity and expression that seeks to challenge perception
and awaken the senses.
In Bautista’s works, colour is not only a medium but also a language. Through bold contrasts, surprising combinations, and dynamic textures, each work immerses the viewer in a different universe, where the visual connects with the emotional and the conceptual.
Juan Bautista Galindo
lives in Roquetas de Mar (Almeria). He studied at the La Llotja Higher School of Fine Arts in Barcelona and finished with an honourable mention.
He was also a student of the painter Felix Revello del Toro.
This exhibition can be visited for free from Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm and from 3pm to 9pm.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torremolinos.
IF you’re in Fuengirola and fancy a night of belting out tunes, throwing darts, or simply having a laugh, Match-Inn is where you need to be.
Mark your calendar for the last Friday of every month, when this lively spot transforms into a haven for karaoke
Karaoke fever
lovers, wannabe superstars, and those who just enjoy watching the show. Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or a screeching foghorn, this night is all about having a giggle and ma-
king memories. Expect plenty of singing, silliness, and a proper good time.
Not a singer? No worries.
If standing under the spotlight isn’t your thing, don’t fret. The MatchInn has pool, darts, and a cracking atmosphere to keep you entertained. And here’s the kicker - GoSocial members, get their first pint on the house.
La Sala Lunch and Market
LA SALA is celebrating a Christmas luncheon and market in aid of AIM Sanctuary, a charity that provides quality care for animals in the Costa del Sol.
When: Every Last Friday of the Month. Next event: Friday, November 29.
Time: 10.30pm
Where: Match-Inn, Fuengirola
On Thursday, December 5, beginning at 1.30pm at La Sala, Puerto Banus. For €39 per person, €10 of which will go directly to AIM, there will be a hree-course Christmas lunch with free flowing wine, beer, and cava from 2pm to 4pm.
Christmas decorations; Bella Beautiful World Christmas cards; jewellery by Monde by Monde; Christmas treats from La Dispense de la Meme; Champagne Lifestyle fashions; and many more stalls with everything you need to complete your Christmas shopping list.
Alongside the Christmas lunch, expect a charity raffle, festive sounds from a Christmas choir, fashion from Adele, and a Champagne Lifestyle’s Helen Stanley curated Christmas market. Stalls will include Beverly Beethoven selling handmade Christmas trees made of baubles and accessories as well as
AIM is a brand new registered charity based in Marbella with an experienced team of animal lovers dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of dogs in need, from puppies to oldies. They have identified areas of support that are needed the most for animals (predominantly canines) along the coast and beyond.
Reservations can be made at la salabanus.com or by calling 952 814 145.
With limited space, you’ll want to book your spot quicker than you can say “Don’t Stop Believin’!” If you need to pull a no-show, do the right thing and cancel, so someone else can grab the mic.
For more details visit the GoSocial website.
Be bedazzled: Malaga’s
Chinese Lantern Festival
ONLY in Malaga will you find a unique experience like this one. This sensational light spectacle inspired by the renowned Chinese lanterns festival will mark the end of the Chinese New Year, whilst bringing magic to the stage and more importantly, dazzlingly brilliant illuminations.
Also known as the Spring Festival, this light extravaganza will feature all shapes and sizes of beautifully crafted light displays. Each figure has been carefully designed so as to transmit a story and through light and colour.
2025 will be celebrating the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, richness, prudence and longevity. So, don’t forget to look out for that one!
The Lantern Festival (Festival de las Linternas) will be arriving
to Malaga for the first time from November 30 to fill the Parque Oeste with colour, vitality and a taste of Chinese tradition.
Ticket prices will start from €14.
Tickets can be purchased from the festi valdelaslinternas.com website or directly from the Corte Inglés online box office.
Don’t miss this unforgettable display!
See you there at: Parque del Oeste de Malaga
November 30 to February 15 Show times: 6pm, 7.15pm, 8.30pm and 9.45pm
Residents of Malaga get a 10% discount and there are discounts are available.
Malaga’s own Chinese Lantern Festival will illuminate the Parque del Oeste this winter.
Glory of Christmas
THIS December, join the Choir and Orchestra Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol for a festive celebration of music from the 17th century to the present day together with Bach’s Concerto for 2 Violins.
Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol will warmly welcome everyone to enter into the spirit of the Christmas season with them in one of two beautiful settings. The first performance is on Sunday, December 8 at 7.30pm at the Salon Real of the IPV Palace and Spa Hotel in Fuengirola. Tickets for the Fuengirola concert are €12 (free entry for under 16s) and are available from the IPV Palace Hotel, Lepanto Café, Fuengirola (main street). Also from members of Collegium Musicum who are able to sell tickets, and they will be available on the door from 7pm, or by e-mail to info@colmus.org
The second performance is in aid of the charity Cáritas Encarnación and will be on Tuesday, December 10 at 8.30pm in the Church of the Encarnación in Marbella and on Tuesday, December 10 at 8.30pm in Marbella. The concert is being given for free, while a collection will be made for Cáritas at the end.
THE Benalmadena Pre-Columbian Museum (Benalmadena’s Museo Precolombino) is serving up festive cheer with its traditional Mexican-style nativity scene exhibition, running from November 29, to January 10, 2025.
The Benalmadena Pre-Columbian Museum (Museo Precolombino) is jingling all the way this festive season with its traditional Mexican-style
Astrology meets feelings
IT’S time to get emotional about the horoscope.
Feeling a bit cosmic? Get ready for a wild ride. Head to the Manuel Altolaguirre Library in Benalmadena on Thursday, November 28, for Entre Nosotras, a three-hour workshop promising a stellar mix of group chatter about feelings and some seriously artsy vibes. From 10am to 1pm, attendees will unleash their inner Picasso while dabbling in astrology and talking about their feelings.
Spaces are limited, so be quick - no one wants to be the Capricorn left out in the cold. To book your spot, pop into the library. Who knows? Maybe Mercury will send some inspiration your way.
Mexican nativity scene
nativity scene exhibition, running from November 29 to January 10, 2025.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Spanish or British nativity scene - expect unique touches like a flower seller peddling calla lilies and a cheeky child smashing a piñata. It’s a cul-
tural twist that promises to dazzle locals and tourists alike.
Even better, entry is absolutely free, so there’s no excuse not to stop by. Whether you’re here for the season or just fancy a peek at something different, this is one ‘Belén’ worth making time for.
Choir and Orchestra Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol.
Elliott Wright delivers charity funds to Red Cross
Elliott Wright donates funds to Red Cross Mijas following charity gala for Valencia flood victims
TELEVISION personality and restauranteur Elliott Wright has once again demonstrated his commitment to philanthropy as he headed down to the Red Cross in Mijas to hand over the money raised at his very successful charity gala. The funds were raised at a special event at Wright’s restaurant Olivia’s in La Cala de Mijas in aid of those affected by the recent storm Dana floods in Valencia.
The charity gala, which raised over €30,000 for the Red Cross’ Valencia appeal, was a key initiative hosted by Wright to support those impacted by the devastating floods that swept through Valencia. The money will go towards providing essential aid to the victims, including emergency supplies, bedding and blankets and temporary housing. In addition to the money raised, Elliott Wright has also loaded up a van with items donated by the community, and personally delivered them to Valencia’s Red Cross collection point.
Wright’s ongoing charitable efforts have had a meaningful impact in supporting those in need, while also raising awareness and inspiring others to come together and contribute in any way they can.
The money raised was handed over by Wright in person during a visit to the Red Cross centre in Mijas on November 22, alongside Steven Euesden, who represented Euro Weekly News. The pair were welcomed
opportunity to chat with Maria from the Red Cross team, who explained further about the organisation’s ongoing work. Maria shared some insights into their other current projects, including offering shelter and support for individuals experiencing homelessness or vulnerability, as well as organising activities that encourage social inclusion, such as leisure programmes, academic assistance, and job search support for those in need.
by a warm and appreciative team of Red Cross workers, who have been tirelessly helping those in need across the region.
After presenting the donation, Wright and Euesden took the
Wright’s visit to the Mijas Red Cross centre serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. His charitable efforts and call to action encourage others to contribute to charitable causes, whether it be through volunteering, making donations, or simply raising awareness. If you would like to donate to the Red Cross, or find out how to take part and help out, visit https://www.cruzroja.es/ inicio-web/
Elliott Wright and Steven Euesden present the donations to Ander Echebarria from the Red Cross team.