Social Scene Costa del Sol 19 - 25 December 2024 Issue 2059
Christmas cycle race
THE Christmas cycling race 2024 is taking place in San Pedro de Alcantara on Sunday, December 22 at 12pm, and it’s all just a bit of fun.
Starting out from Avenida Carlos Cano, the route of the cycle race takes San Pedro promenade and on the road and Avd. Salamanca.
It is a race open to cyclists with or without a federation licence, being able to participate in the following categories:
Under 23
Ham cutting work shop
HAM, wine and cheese tasting at the Central Market of Marbella on Friday, December 20.
From 8pm, after the market stalls have closed, this event promises to be a gastronomic gift for Marbella food lovers and for those who want to expand their knowledge of the iconic Spanish products.
The evening will include a practical course taught by a professional ham master, to teach attendees the correct techniques to cut the ham and contribute to the maximum each piece. In addition, essential techniques for the conserva-
Master 50 - Elite
Master 60
Master 30 - Female
Master 40 - Senior
Registration will take place on the day of the event from 10am to 3pm on the Paseo Maritimo in San Pedro or through the QR code found on the event poster. The cost of registration will be 1kg of non-perishable food.
Trophies will be awarded to the top three cyclists in each category.
1st place Trophy plus a Christmas hamper.
2nd place Trophy 3rd place Trophy
tion and maintenance of a ham during this Christmas period once it has been opened. With cheeses, the event
should send an email to infocomercio@marbella. es to register. The tasting event aims to value local products and promote a
Adam Woodward
Lighting up the season at Anantara Villa Padierna
THE holiday season is already in full swing at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace where, on December 11, the annual tradition of lighting up the magnificent nine-metre-tall Christmas tree took place. This highly anticipated celebration marks the beginning of many festive events and seasonal workshops hosted by the luxury hotel in the leadup to Christmas.
Anantara Villa Padierna Marbella, a member of one of the Leading Hotels of the World, is located on the Costa del Sol and is surrounded by three golf courses. The hotel has also been awarded a MICHELIN Key. It has 1,200 works of art on display around the resort, making it an exceptional place
to spend the night celebrating the holiday season.
On the big night, guests were greeted with a warm and festive atmosphere, as every corner of the hotel was adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations. One of the highlights was the giant advent calendar on display in the lobby next to the Christmas tree - a delightful reminder of the countdown to Christmas.
Hundreds of guests poured into the hotel dressed to the nines and ready for an exciting evening of festive fun. A delicious buffet of gourmet canapés was offered, accompanied by a selection of beverages including Champagne and mulled wine. As
From Mondays to Sundays:
From 1:00pm – 4:30pm 7:00pm – 11:30pm
guests mingled and enjoyed the refreshments, the evening kicked off with a heartwarming performance of Christmas carols sung by students from the Swedish International School in Marbella.
In the lead-up to lighting the tree, hotel director Jorge Manzur gave a heartfelt speech in which he shared his gratitude to all those involved in organising the event. When the time came to switch on the lights, the daughters of Spanish influencer Ana Vera pushed the button, and the beautiful Christmas tree illuminated the lobby and transformed it into a sparkling winter wonderland. To top off the celebrations, singers from the Gospel It choir descended the staircases and en-
tertained guests with a lively performance, encouraging everyone to dance and celebrate together.
The evening was a resounding success enjoyed by everyone in attendance, and a fitting start to the holiday season at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort
Villa Padierna Resort, Marbella, Malaga 913 984 661 villapadierna@anantara-hotels.com anantara.com
Christmas escape room
Caroline James
FUENGIROLA’s commercial centre, Miramar, has come up with a novel idea for entertaining the kids this Christmas by creating a festive ‘escape room’.
The shopping centre says Santa’s Cabin in the seasonal ‘Poblado Encantado’ (Enchanted Village) area will be transformed into an escape room entitled ‘The Heart of Christmas’ from Thursday, December 26.
For those who haven’t visited an escape room before, it entails racing against the clock to solve clues or puzzles which enable participants to find the key to unlock the room. The challenge in Miramar’s Christmas-themed escape room will be to ‘overcome challenges of skill and logic to recover the Christmas spirit before midnight.’
The three Kings will also be putting in an appearance to collect childrens’ gift wish letters between Thursday, December 26 and Sunday, January 5.
For those with younger children or who want to take a more leisurely
approach to the festivities, the Enchanted Village may be visited up until Tuesday, December 24. Miramar say it has proved extremely popular since its opening in November and offers creative workshops such as ‘Magical Recycling’ plus short theatrical and dance performances. To put families in the Christmas spirit, the village also offers a visit to Father Christmas’ cabin. The organiser ask that families wishing to visit either the Enchanted Village or the Escape Room book ahead through the free Miramar app in order to ‘ensure a comfortable and organised experience’.
Mijas, Urb. Las Yucas, No. 1, Mijas – Málaga
Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk Rematch: Big Fight Night Reignited at The Clubhouse Marbella
BOXING fans, mark your calendars! The Clubhouse Marbella, part of the renowned Sala Group, is hosting an unforgettable night of championship boxing action.
On Saturday, December 21, witness the epic rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk as they battle for the IBO, WBC, and WBO World Heavyweight Titles.
Broadcast live from the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this 12-round main event promises high stakes and electrifying moments. With coverage starting at 7pm and extended opening hours until 1am, The Clubhouse Marbella is set to be the ultimate destination for fight night on the Costa Del Sol.
Located beneath La Sala Puerto Banus, The Clubhouse Marbella offers a sophisticated and vibrant setting with state-of-the-art entertainment to match the intensity of the ring. Featuring over 50 HD TVs with zapping technology, fans can enjoy uninterrupted views of every round.
Head down early for Happy Hour between 5-7pm, with a 50 per cent discount
on a variety of drinks. This offer includes handcrafted cocktails, La Sala house and premium wines as well as Cava, draught and bottled beers, and house spirits and mixers.
The Clubhouse Marbella has quickly established itself as the go-to place for celebrity encounters. In just the past month, the venue has welcomed sports icons such as Wayne Rooney, Conor McGregor, and Olympic Gold Medalist Keely Hodgkinson, further solidifying its reputation as Marbella’s premier hotspot for mingling with the stars.
With limited spaces available, early booking is highly recommended. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk rematch in Marbella’s ultimate venue for sports, dining, and entertainment.
EAT . DRINK . WATCH . PLAY
Find out more by contacting reserva tions@LaSalaBanus.com or calling 952 814 145. Don’t miss out on making this summer the most fun one yet!
Christmas park
THE ‘Parque de Navidad’ (Christmas Park) opens its gates on December 22 in Torremolinos and will remain open in the Recinto Ferial until January 7.
The park is designed especially for the enjoyment of children and families and will have rides and bouncy castles at prices between 50 cents and €1.
There will also be plenty of foodtrucks, sweets and candy floss stands.
Opening times from December 22 are 5.30pm until 10pm, and the rest of the holidays are from 11am to 2pm, and 6pm until 10pm in the evenings. Although on December 24 and 31, and January 5, it will be open only in the morning, from 11am to 2pm, so everyone can begin the festive celebrations.
In the evenings the market will adapt sound and lights to facilitate the assistance of children with Autism Spectrum Disor-
der (ASD), functional diversity, or any other type of sensitivity. Regardless of the schedule, if at any time of opening, parents or guardians of children with any type of sensory disorder may be accredited to the park controllers so that children do not have to wait in queues.
Children’s and youth hearing protectors will also be offered. They can be picked up at the ticket booth to enjoy in a healthy way by reducing too much auditory exposure.
Adam Woodward
Credit: Diputación de Malaga
Choral Christmas
Adam Woodward
MAGNUM Mysterium Choir of Estepona is performing a free concert on Thursday, December 19, at 8pm, the traditional Christmas Concert, which will be set in the Parish of Santa María de
los Remedios. Admission will be free until all the seats have been filled.
Under the title ‘Cantos de Navidad’ (Christmas songs), the choral group will perform a programme composed of a set of Christmas carols and popular music
from different eras and nationalities.
The Coral Magnum Mysterium was founded in 1987 thanks to an initiative by a group of enthusiasts in love with choral music. In its beginnings it was set up as a chamber choir singing Renaissance and Baroque traditional music, and in successive years it began to open up to works, styles and various times from history, delving into both popular and religious music.
Formed as a non-profit cultural association to promote the study and practice of quality polyphonic choral music, they promote and participate in concerts and individual and collective musical events both in Spain and abroad.
This special performance will include songs from Irving Berlin, Mendelssohn and Elaine Hagenberg.
The concert takes place at the church Ntra. Sra. De Los Remedios in Calle Blas Ortega, 14, Estepona, at 8pm on Thursday, December 19.
NEW YEAR´S
Designer artisan market
OAK Firehouse & Cocktail in Puerto Banus will be hosting something entirely different this festive season.
On Sunday, December 22, the swish cocktail bar and steakhouse in Marbella will be hosting Helen Stanley’s Champagne Lifestyle Designer and Artisan Christmas Market. The entrance is free, and it opens at 11am.
The Helen Stanley-curated Christmas market will again include a wide range of perfect Christmas gifts and personal treats, including Beverly Beethoven selling handmade Christmas trees made of baubles and accessories as well as 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.
The popularity of Helen’s pop-up markets has gone from strength to strength this year and enters 2025 with increasing interest. The owner of Champagne Lifestyle fashions has also been invited to hold the Designer and Artisan market at La Sala
in Puerto Banus on Sunday, December 29, from 11am to 6pm, and as we enter the new year, the market will be in La Sala Live Lounge, and Oak’s cocktail terrace simultaneously every Saturday from 11am to 6pm - two markets.
From everyone at Euro Weekly News, congratulations to Helen on her success creating such a unique and highly popular market experience.
Credit: Helen Stanley.
Opera night in Fuengirola
FUENGIROLA’S Casa de la Cultura will host ‘A night at the Opera... and at the Zarzuela’ on Friday, December 20 starting at 8pm.
Tickets for the show, starring baritone Marcelo Solís and pianist José Ángel Onieva, are priced at €5 and can be purchased on the website or at the information point of the Miramar Shopping Center.
The councillor for Culture, Rodrigo Romero,
explained that the first half of the event will be dedicated to Opera and vocal music excellence, and the second part will be dedicated to Zarzuela, a traditional Spanish music genre. He added that the event should be “a very special night, which I am sure that all attendees will remember for a long time.”
‘A Night at the Opera... and at the Zarzuela’ is a show that aims to bring these two genres closer
to the public. It is a recital of lyrical singing, in which music is interspersed with explanations that put into context the stories that the works of authors such as Cimarosa, Mozart, Rossini or Verdi tell.
The musical event also aims to share with the public the native lyrical theatre genre, Zarzuela, through the works of Serrano, Sorozabal, Alonso and Moreno Torroba all in the voice of the Ronda baritone Marcelo Solis.
Torreblanca Americana
Adam Woodward
A LIVELY atmosphere at the invitation-only, VIP opening night of the new Hook restaurant in Torreblanca, Fuengirola on Friday, December 13.
The new American-style eatery gave a sneak preview and tasting at the invitation-only food and drinks party full of names from the sports world and Fuengirola’s Finnish community.
This popular sports-themed restaurant right on Fuengirola’s Paseo Maritimo won’t be opening to the public until early in January 2025, serving up their perfectly presented wings, burgers and all kinds of culinary Americana. A tall post advertising sign and red walls are so far all that stand out on the street.
Tasty wings served with special sauces and crudités; crispy boneless chicken; crispy chicken tenderloin;
and mouth-watering charcoal-grilled burgers, perfectly presented and piping hot, were the real stars of the evening. What stood out about the food most was the freshness and art that went into putting together this fast food-style restaurant turned into a long-stay bar.
The highly popular chain already has 12 restaurants around Finland, and now they have their first one in Spain. The chain’s story began in Tampere in 1997, and their famous Hook sauces are still made in Tampere and delivered to the chain’s restaurants around Finland and now to Spain. So too are the chicken wings, which come to Fuengirola from Finland, bigger and juicier than you may expect.
The restaurants also offer other American-style dishes, such as ribs, but chicken wings are clearly their signature speciality.
Credits: Junta de Andalucia
Gaming event returns
THE Youth Area of the Fuengirola Town Council has organised a new edition of its popular Game Party event on Saturday and Sunday, December 28 and 29 at the House of Culture, Fuengirola.
Game Party Fuengirola offers an original leisure
alternative that is intended for families, children and young people.
The event will feature virtual reality, video games, a motor zone with driving simulators, arcade games, as well as exhibitions and video game programming workshops. The objecti-
ve, as stated by the Youth councillor, Isaac Vargas, is to ‘add fun to learning, using new technologies to do so’.
Access to the event is free until capacity is reached. However, those wishing to participate should register in advance at the Youth Area facilities located in the Colores building.
Vargas explained that the event will feature a total of eight video game tournaments: Fifa’25, Mario Kart, Beat Saber, Tekken, Just Dance, Dragon Ball, Fall Guys and Fortnite plus a Dance game zone.
20 year anniversary
Timo had been studying at the school of hotel and restaurant management in Helsinki. After that he worked and lived in Switzerland, Norway and New York.
Young people can also learn programming, design or how to create their own video games.
Vargas said: “Once again we encourage the young people of Fuengirola to participate” and invited them to “celebrate this new edition of the Game Party and enjoy the world of video games together as a family.”
GARUM restaurant, owned by Timo Hämäläinen, celebrated its 20th year on Marbella promenade on Tuesday, December 16 with over 350 invited guests of probably more than 30 different nationalities. There was plenty of brut cava, a great 20th anniversary red wine, and a fantastic and cosmopolitan Garum-style buffet.
Cod ceviche with Peruvian ‘leche de tigre’, Japanese style salmon tartare, mango and chilli gazpacho, spicy beetroot salmorejo, Mexican style beef salad, mojito baked cheese cake, trufas de chocolate and Cointreau, were just a few of the treats on offer.
Before coming to Marbella, restaurateur
Opened 20 years ago by Timo, Garum quickly became a cosmopolitan and international reference known for offering something for everybody 365 days a year, as well as a fantastic cellar offering a wide selection of wines raised in small and select wineries that match perfectly with our menu and reflect the original touch Garum offers.
“Garum was a very tempting project because 20 years ago this was not a restaurant area. For me it was a big challenge, and I just had the feeling that it would work out,” Timo says.
WOK COSTA DEL SOL
Untold Jazz
THE Untold History of Jazz is a musical journey where song and music accompany the audience through different sound landscapes and eras of one of the most powerful and influential musical forms of the twentieth century; namely, Jazz.
Assorted Cheese with Walnuts
Tataki Tuna
Uramaki Sushi Roll
Crispy Aromatic Duck with Pancakes
· Sliced Beef Tenderloin with Black Pepper Sauce & Pearl Rice
· King Prawns with Ginger and Spring Onions & Pearl Rice · Baked Salmon with Vegetables & Baby Potatoes
Turkey & Brussel Sprouts
Red Velvet Cake
Africa is the starting point, onto the most spiritual sounds sung in the cotton fields of America, entering the Dixieland era of New Orleans, then onto the Latin rhythms of the Cuban Son and the most emblematic soundtracks of Hollywood.
More than 30 musicians will be on stage and a narrator who tells the history of Jazz in a fun and above all sonorous way.
The Untold History of Jazz is on at Teatro Ciudad de Marbella, on Saturday, December 21 at 8pm. Entrance is free although pre-booking is advisable at mientrada.net.
Adam Woodward
Mijas pastoral contest
THERE is something as typically Mijas as it gets coming the weekend before Christmas to fill everyone with the joys of the festive season.
Every December, the Mijas Pastoral Contest brings together groups from different regions of Spain in one unique event. Mijas is recognised as a ‘cradle of pastorals’ due to the abundance and diversity of these groups, the result of a cultural legacy transmitted generation to generation.
The pastorals, with their music and singing, are not only an artistic expression, but also a symbol of community identity and on December 22, from 12pm, the Plaza Virgen de la Peña will be the scene of the contest. FIfteen groups are partici-
pating on the day, with an influx of public that promises to be massive, if previous years are anything to go by.
In 2023, the event brought together more than 1,500 people, making it one of the biggest tourist attractions in Mijas during the festive season. This success is a testimony to the growing interest in local tradition that combines music, culture and community.
The annual event has just been recognised and even the certificate of ‘Provincial Tourist Singularity Festival’ is not only expected to bring in more funding, but also boost tourism in Mijas.
The festival is taking place on December 22 from 12pm in the Plaza Virgen de la Peña, in Mijas Pueblo.
Adam Woodward
COSTA CALENDAR GIRLS 2025 new calendar has gone on sale, and to celebrate, the breast cancer awareness group is holding a launch party on Sunday, December 22, at Daley’s Finnegan’s in Fuengirola.
Rosie May Weston had the idea to raise awareness about breast cancer as well as some funds for Breast Cancer Research back in 2023 when her friend, Alex, was undergoing treatment for the illness. A group of women from the Costa del Sol community volunteered to pose topless for some professionally taken photos by Melissa VB, representing each month of the year. The project was so successful that they’ve done it again this year, again with some familiar
Calendar Girls launch
faces from along the coast.
The project, sponsored by Calasol Property and Munki Transfers and Tours, who have covered the expense of printing by Roxy Print, and designed by the donated talents of Jade Lawler, the photo calendar again features colour pictures of wonderful Costa del Sol women on the beach, and all for the best of causes. The calendars are already selling fast, so be sure to get yours while you can. At the launch event, visitors will not only be able to purchase a copy of the new calendar but also learn about early breast cancer detection and meet the featured models, while helping to raise funds for Breast Cancer UK and Spain. The launch party takes place at Daley’s Finnegan’s in Fuengirola, Calle de la Cruz, 12.
Alex from Manchester. 2025’s cover girl.
Take That fever
TORRENUEVA is turning up the heat this Christmas with a jam-packed line-up of live music, tribute acts, and festive funbut it’s Sunday night’s Take That tribute that’s got everyone praying for tickets! The real Take That will not be in attendance, but the night will still be an absolute cracker.
Located on Avenida de Rota, this stylish hotspot is pulling out all the stops for a festive season that’s ‘back for good’. Here’s the line-up that’ll have partygoers rocking around the Christmas tree like it’s 1996:
Sunday, December 22: Hold onto your hats because it’s time to relive the glory days of 90s pop! A Take That tribute ni-
ght will belt out all the classics you never want to forget, from Relight My Fire to Could It Be Magic. At only €5 per ticket, this is one event where you really do want to take that and party!
Book now: Cazbah Live Lounge want you back for good...
With such an unmissable line-up, The Cazbah Live Lounge is sure to be packed to the rafters.
Tickets are going fast - so don’t miss out. Book your spot now via WhatsApp on +34 602 535 710 or drop a message to smallandwildsl@yahoo.com
IT’S no surprise that Moroccan influences on Andalucian cuisine are deep-rooted, shaped by centuries of shared history, especially during the period of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula, which lasted for nearly 700 years until the 15th century.
The cultural, religious, and trade exchanges between North Africa and Andalucia left a lasting mark on the culinary traditions of both regions. Here are some key Moroccan influences on Andalucian cuisine:
Spices and Seasonings: Renowned for its complex use of spices, many of these spices were introduced to Andalucia through the Islamic period. Cumin, cinnamon, saffron, and turmeric: These spices are fundamental in both Moroccan and Andalucian cooking, and their use in dishes like stews, rice, and tagines is a shared tradition. In Andalucia, you can see these spices in dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken rice) and cocido (a type of stew).
Couscous and Semolina Dishes: A staple in Morocco, it also found its way into Andalucian cuisine during the Islamic period. While it is not as ubiquitous in Andalucia as in Morocco, variations are found in Andalucian cuisine, often flavoured with saffron and served with lamb or chicken.
Tagines and Stews: The Moroccan ta-
gine, a slow-cooked stew typically made with meat (such as lamb or chicken), vegetables, dried fruits, and nuts, is a direct influence on Andalucian stews. Versions of tagine might include regional ingredients, but the method of cooking in a clay pot, the combination of savoury and sweet elements, and the use of fruits like apricots, dates, or raisins is mirrored in dishes like guiso de cordero (lamb stew) or pisto (a vegetable stew that can be enriched with meats or eggs)
Meat and Fish Pairings: A combination
of lamb or chicken with dried fruits like apricots, dates, and raisins is a hallmark of many dishes. This influence can be seen in Andalucia, particularly in dishes like cordero con miel (lamb with honey) or in some versions of tagine-like stews, which combine meats and dried fruits in a similar way..
Pâtisserie and Sweets: Often almond-based and flavoured with rose water or orange blossom, deeply influenced Andalucian pastry traditions. Dishes like baklava, pastelitos (small pastries), and gazpacho de almendra (almond soup) are examples of how Moroccan flavours have been integrated into Andalucian sweets.
Conclusion: The rich exchange between Morocco and Andalucia, particularly during the Islamic Golden Age, has left an indelible mark on Andalucian cuisine. Today, the culinary traditions continue to bear the influence of Morocco, both in terms of ingredients and cooking techniques.
Calle Tranco,4 29649 Mijas
Vista Lago )
Marc Menendez-Roche
Credit: Shutterstock, Fred Duval
London, United Kingdom - June 15, 2023: Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald of Take That attend ‘Greatest Days’ World Premiere at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London, England
Alley Cats, Fuengirola
ALLEY CATS sports bar in the heart of Fuengirola are gearing up for fun this Christmas and New Year, and they are not fully booked yet, so this will be the place to party and see in 2025.
The English-speaking sports bar with nine high-definition screens is the place to see all the top sports events while sharing a few drinks with old friends or new in this friendly and vibrant bar on the coast.
They offer a unique experience to enjoy the best in sports, not least the football, with an incomparable atmosphere designed for true fans where you won’t miss a minute of the action on their high-definition screens.
Alley Cats know how important it is for you to follow your favourite team; that’s why they have a wide range of sports channels that cover everything from local league football to the most exciting in-
THERE is an extensive calendar of Christmas activities prepared for Mijas, and this year the
ternational events. Whether it’s a football game, basketball, tennis or any other sport, at Alley Cats you will see it all on one of their nine high-definition screens and with the best sound around.
In addition, Alley Cats is the ideal place to meet up with friends, family or co-workers. They organise special events for the most important matches and offer group reservations, ensuring that everyone has the best seat in the house. The bar is equipped with comfortable seats and exceptional service for you to enjoy every moment either inside or on their comfy outdoor terrace.
Customers can enjoy a varied selection of drinks and snacks while watching their favourite games. From craft beers to exclusive cocktails, their menu is designed to satisfy all tastes.
One thing is for sure, and that is that the Alley Cats crew are as passionate about sports as you are, and they strive every day to create a space where everyone can live the excitement of each
Mijas classical
traditional New Year’s Concert has just been announced. The Malaga Symphony Orchestra will be in charge of offering a concert on
December 27 at the Manuel España Theatre.
The New Year’s concert, traditionally one of the most popular
events on the Mijas calendar, at the hands of the Malaga Symphony Orchestra, one of the oldest and most prestigious orchestras in
game.
This Christmas, music will be provided by Ian Campbell on Christmas Eve starting from 8.30pm to bring the festive cheer, and seeing in 2025 on New Year’s Eve, the darling voice of Michelle Nelson will be entertaining the revellers starting at 9.30pm. Alley Cats have taken some bookings, but there is still plenty of room for more at this inn. Consistently good reviews on TripAdvisor keep coming in, describing the sports bar as the place to have a drink while watching a game and they comment on the friendliness and professionalism of the staff. One happy customer has been going there for the last three years so he can watch the best matches, sometimes even following two games at the same time!
You can find Alley Cats at Calle Manuel Fernández, 81, Fuengirola, just off the Paseo Maritimo. Call them on 687 390 462
the country, promises to be an unforgettable evening.
the Flowers’ by Tchaikovsky. The orchestra will be under the baton of Rubén Díez.
The entirely free concert at the Manuel España Theatre in Las Lagunas, Mijas will begin at 8pm and admission is free until the theatre is full, so plan to arrive early.
The concert programme is composed of ‘The Wedding of Luis Alonso’ by G Giménez, ‘The Blue Danube’, Perpetuum Mobile’, and ‘Trisch Trasch Polka’, ‘Polka de Caza’, various pieces by J Strauss, which are joined by ‘The Legend of the Kiss’ by Soutullo and Vert, ‘The Revoltosa. Prelusio’ by Chapí, ‘Can Can’ by Offenbach, and, as a fi nal climax, and ‘Waltz of
Founded in 1945 by maestro Pedro Gutiérrez Lapuente, the Malaga Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest and most prestigious orchestras in Spain.
Adam Woodward
Credit: OSPM
Adam Woodward
Orquesta Sinfónica Provincial de Málaga.
Costa del Sol
Adam Woodward
CHRISTMAS traditions for many include a trip to an ice rink, but where to go in the Costa del Sol is the question.
Seeing a snowflake fall in the Costa del Sol is as rare as hen’s teeth, even though plenty will be thinking of the white stuff as they paint the corners of their windows with artificial snow this festive season. However, we can still don our woolly gloves and scarves and make a trip to an ice rink to get that real wintery feel.
In Benalmadena, there is a temporary rink down at the harbour and a Christmas market. The ice rink is open until January 5 with a schedule of 11am until 9pm, Monday to Thursday, and until 10pm weekends.
Also in Benalmadena, there’s the permanent indoor rink. Entrance fees range from €6 to €7.50 and it is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Check the website for times, as it varies depending on the day.
In Marbella, the Don Pepe Gran Meliá Hotel has opened a new Xtraice synthetic ice rink, with 119.65 square metres and capacity for 26 simultaneous skaters for €20 for 25 minutes.
Check the Don Pepe Gran Meliá for details of opening times as they vary a little.
Most years there is a temporary rink in Los Boliches, Fuengirola at the fair grounds, however at the time of publishing we are still awaiting news of when it will open.
Ring in the New Year at Christy’s Irish Gastropub, Fuengirola!
LOOKING for the ultimate way to celebrate New Year’s Eve? Look no further than Christy’s Irish Gastropub in Fuengirola, where a party like no other awaits! Known for its exceptional food and warm hospitality, Christy’s is set to make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable.
Enjoy a spectacular buffet packed with culinary delights. Kick off the evening with a range of starters, including Duck Spring Rolls, Vegetarian Samosas, Filo Prawns, and their famous Charcuterie Board. The main course buffet will spoil you with options such as Beef Sliders, Bite-Size Fish and Chips, BBQ Pork Spare Ribs, and Chicken Milanese. Top it all off with a decadent selection of desserts.
To complement this feast, indulge in free-flowing Cava, wine, and draught beer throughout the evening - all for the
incredible price of just €95.00 per person.
The celebrations don’t stop there! With a large terrace perfect for families or groups, Christy’s offers the perfect spot to gather your loved ones and welcome 2024 in style. At midnight, enjoy Champagne, party bags, and the traditional grapes to toast the New Year.
Christy’s Irish Gastropub is renowned for its lively atmosphere and dedication to creating memorable experiences, ensuring this New Year’s Eve will be no exception. Don’t miss out on the party of the year!
Reserve your spot today by calling 620 226 911 - spaces are filling up fast. Let Christy’s take care of the celebrations while you create memories to last a lifetime.
Calle Olleria 20, Fuengirola 620 228 911
Credit: Shutterstock RDaniel
Fluid Bar and Restaurant: The heart of Elviria for over 20 years
FOR more than two decades, Fluid Bar and Restaurant in Elviria has been a beloved hub for locals and tourists alike. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant energy, it’s the perfect spot for everything from a quick coffee to an evening celebration.
The large, heated terrace offers a comfortable setting year-round, making Fluid a great place to gather with friends or family. Whether it’s a morning breakfast meeting, a light lunch, or an evening meal, there’s always a lively buzz here With its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially for events on Thursdays and Fridays, which are often fully booked.
Open daily from 10 00am till late, Fluid’s kitchen serves an array of delicious dishes throughout the
day, starting with its renowned breakfast menu from 10am. The menu is affordable, with daily specials like sizzling fajitas on Mondays, Taco Tuesdays, gourmet burgers on Wednesdays, and traditional fish and chips on Saturdays. Their meal deals, offering Buy 1 Get 1 Half Price, add even more value to their already enticing offerings.
Sundays are a highlight at Fluid, featuring a delectable carvery from 1.30pm, complete with complimentary cava and live music. Entertainment is a cornerstone of Fluid’s appeal, with live music hosted five nights a week, from Wednesday to Sunday, creating an always vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere.
December brings an extra sparkle to Fluid Bar and Restaurant, with its festive decorations and exciting
holiday events. Boxing Day promises to be a standout occasion with a special party featuring Zac Black and Bruno, ensuring a lively celebration for all.
Fluid’s commitment to the community, fantastic food, and outstanding entertainment make it the ideal place to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the season. Popular with all age groups, this dynamic venue is truly a cornerstone of Elviria’s social scene. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, make sure Fluid Bar and Restaurant is at the top of your list for a memorable experience.