Summer is in full swing and whilst you’re probably loving those lazy days by the pool or beach, all too often they merge into one and in the blink of an eye, summer’s over.
Well why not make 2017 one to remember and plan those big days/nights out with this handy pull out and keep guide to everything happening on the Costa Del Sol from concerts, festivals, clubs, entertainment, sports and of course for our high brow readers… culture – we have researched every major event on the Costa Del Sol this summer so you don’t have to.
JUNE
DUTCH DAY – June 3
To coincide with Amsterdam’s largest EDM Festival, The Flying Dutch, Nikki Beach Marbella is hosting a fabulous Dutch Day party. Expect to sample traditional Dutch cuisine, drinks and entertainment while enjoying the beautiful backdrop of the Nikki Beach terrace, pool and palm tree-lined sea views. Proost!
Free event * Nikki Beach, Marbella * www.nikkibeach.com
J80 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP – June 10-11
The World Championship J80 event at Sotogrande is one of the highlights of the sailing and yachting calendar. With Sotogrande’s unique position between two continents, Europe and Africa, it is the perfect setting for a compelling race with constantly changing wind behaviour. The J80 teams’ task is by no means an easy one, but it creates a spectacular show.
Free event * Marina, Sotogrande * www.j80marinasotogrande.com
SO SOLID SHOWCASE – June 8
London garage, grime and hip hop group So Solid are back in Marbella for a one-off performance at Puerto Banus nightclub Tibu. The group originating from Battersea achieved worldwide success in the early 2000’s with hits like ’21 Seconds’ and ‘Envy’. Original members Lisa Mafia, Romeo and Dan Da Man
will light up the popular nightspot.
Tickets €20 * Tibu Nightclub, Puerto Banus * www.tibubanus.com
FOREIGNER – June 11
With 10 multi-platinum albums and a whopping 16 top 30 hits under their belt, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock bands with songs like ‘Cold as Ice’, ‘I Wanna Know What Love Is’ and ‘Waiting For a Girl Like You.’ Catch them on their 2017 Flame Still Burns Tour at Marbella’s Golden Mile based Puente Romano Tennis Club.
Tickets priced between €35 and €275
Puente Romano * www.crazymusicproductions.com
TOM ZANETTI – June 16
British rapper and producer Tom Zanetti is joining Ministry of Sound Marbella Collections DJ Colin Francis for an unforgettable night at the new, Puerto Banus based superclub Mirage. With hit tracks including the dancefloor smash ‘You Want Me,’ ‘Darlin’ and ‘Uber’ he has earnt his stripes in the US and Europe as being one of the top dance vocalists and producers.
Tickets from €30 * Mirage, Marbella * www.miragemarbella.es
TOWER OF SONG FLAMENCO FESTIVAL – June 17
Alhaurín de la Torre’s ‘Torre del Cante’ Flamenco Festival is an event of great prestige and deep roots in the region, plus it’s only 40 minutes from Marbella. The festival, which has been running since 1974, celebrates the classic Spanish flamenco circuit bringing together traditional singers, dancers and innovative artists.
Free event * Alhaurin, Malaga * www.alhaurindelatorre.es
BELGUIM DAY – June 21
If you want to celebrate Belgium’s Independence Day head to Nikki Beach Marbella where the iconic group is celebrating with traditional Belguim food, entertainment and cocktails from midday till late. Expect to see dancers in traditional costume, Belguim DJ’s and performance acts.
Free event * Nikki Beach, Marbella * www.nikkibeach.com
NIGHT OF SAN JUAN – June 23
San Juan is a magical night that welcomes the start of the summer season. The celebration takes place on June 23 – the shortest night of the year; also known as the summer solstice. Celebrations are held on the beach with roaring bonfires, drinks, food and friends. Check out local beaches or beach clubs in your area to find the best event for you. Many are family friendly.
Free event * Throughout Spain * www.andalucia.com
LEMAR – June 24
Former Fame Academy star Lemar is performing at the Teatro Auditorio Felipe VI in Estepona as part of his Rising Stars tour for new Costa Del Sol events management company Diamonds & Pearls. Lemar received critical acclaim after appearing on the hit BBC talent how in 2002 and went on to have a successful solo career with 4 chart topping albums whilst netting two Brit Awards and three MOBO’s.
Tickets from €25 * Estepona *www.diamondsandpearlseventmanagement.com
GKA WAVE-FREESTYLE WORLD TOUR – June 29 – July 3
The Global Kitesurfing Association’s men’s tour heads to Tarifa for the first event of the year. Featuring kitesurfing’s top professional riders, the first of 4 events around the world that will see one rider crowned ‘GKA Rider of the Year’ in both Wave and Freestyle at the end of the season. Coincide this trip to the beautiful white sandy beaches of Bolonia and Zahara; both a short drive up the coast.
Free event * Tarifa, Cadiz * www.gotarifa.com
JULY
BORN IN THE USA – July 4
To celebrate American Independence Day join the Nikki Beach team as they score on the field with their favourite American sports, from American football to baseball and basketball, at their red, white and blue themed fourth of July celebration. Great for any nationality that wants to celebrate this side of the pond.
Free event * Nikki Beach, Marbella * www.nikkibeach.com
CRAZY 80’s LIVE – July 6
Billy Ocean, Heather Small (the voice of M People) and ‘I`m Too Sexy’ singers Right Said Fred come together for an unforgettable concert at the Puente Romano. Expect to hear classic Billy Ocean’s hits including ‘When The Going Gets Tough’, ‘Get Out Of My Dreams… Get Into My Car’ and ‘Caribbean Queen’ while Heather Small will perform smashes ‘Moving On Up’, ‘One Night In Heaven’ and ‘Search For The Hero’, among others.
Tickets priced between €35 and €275 * Puente Romano * www.crazymusicproductions.com
TORY LANEZ – July 7
Canadian born Tory Lanez is one of the hottest names in hip hop having collaborated with the likes of Sean Kingston and Meek Mill. His albums and singles including hits ‘Luv’ ‘In For It’ and ‘Controlla’ have topped the Billboard charts and made him a force to be reckoned with on the underground scene. Catch him at his first ever Marbella performance at Aqwa Mist.
Tickets from €60 Aqwa Mist, Puerto Banus * www.aqwamistbanus.com
MEDIEVAL MARKET – July 10
Quaint pueblo Casares returns to the Middle Ages with the celebration of its traditional Medieval Market. One of the main attractions is its incomparable setting with traditional streets decorated for the occasion with flags and banners. There is a great atmosphere created by the craft market, tearoom and medieval tavern with many locals getting into the spirit in medieval costume.
Free event * Casares, Cadiz * www.casares.es
ANASTACIA – July 15
Two years after her successful debut Starlite concert, the white voice of soul Anastacia is back to the auditorium stage where she will offer another unforgettable concert performing classic tracks from her pop career heyday including ‘I’m Outta Love’, ‘Left Outside Alone’ and ‘One Day In Our Life’.
Tickets from €55-€275 * Starlite Quarry, Marbella * www.starlitemarbella.com
VIRGIN DEL CARMEN – July 16
On the afternoon of July 16 the maritime procession of the Virgen Del Carmen, the patron saint of fishermen takes place on many coastal towns in Spain. It is a beautiful and touching procession, where the Virgin is carried into the sea among hundreds of flowers. A party and celebration of Del Carmen follows into the late afternoon and early evening.
Free event * Coastal towns throughout Spain * www.andalucia.com/
ELTON JOHN – July 20
The legend that is Elton John is coming to Marbella. The ‘Rocket Man’ and ‘Your Song’ hitmaker will perform emblematic hits and classic numbers from his incredible 5-decade career, as well as a selection of songs from his new 33rd studio album ‘Wonderful Crazy Night’. All this, combined with his 4 live albums, 5 film soundtracks and more than a dozen compilations will make this a night to remember.
Tickets from €85-€275* Starlite Quarry, Marbella * www.starlitemarbella.com/
GEORGE BENSON – July 21
Described as one of the greatest jazz guitarists of all time, legendary and ten-time Grammy Award winner George Benson is known for classic hits, ‘On Broadway’, ‘Give Me The Night’ and ‘Never Give Up On A Good Thing’ among many others. The NEA Jazz Master will play to a packed crowd at Puente Romano.
Tickets priced between €35 and €275* Puente Romano * www.crazymusicproductions.com
H2OH! – July 22
A deluxe pool party with a difference. H20H will feature aquatic jet pack acrobats, live entertainment and DJ͛s set amongst the gorgeous Nikki Beach pool where you can hang out on the VIP terrace with spectacular views of the beach and the Mediterranean Sea. Drinking water is optional!
Free entry * Nikki Beach Marbella * www.nikkibeach.com/
THE PRETENDERS – July 26
A unique opportunity to live the strength of the hailed rock band, with the extraordinary acoustic and incomparable setting of Starlite’s quarry auditorium. Chrissie Hynde, vocalist and lead singer of the band, and Martin Chambers, drummer, will present their new album ‘Alone’ and other classics including ‘Back on the Chain Gang’ and romantic classic ‘I’ll Stand by You.’
Tickets from €55-€275* Starlite Quarry, Marbella * www.starlitemarbella.com
SANTA MARIA POLO July 26 – August 27
One of the highlights of the international polo calendar is the Land Rover International Polo Tournament. The 47th edition, set in Sotogrande, a mere 30 minute drive from Marbella allows you to enjoy the Sport of Kings and soak up the decadent polo atmosphere with champagne tents, gastronomical delights, shopping as well as nightlife in the famous Grey Goose after polo tent.
Free entry (€10 entrance for Cup Final days) * Los Pinos, Sotogrande * www.santamariapoloclub.com
ART MARBELLA – July 28-August 2
Art Marbella is the first major international modern and contemporary art fair on the Costa del Sol. The event allows collectors, artists, curators and art lovers to appreciate, enjoy and educate themselves, whilst enjoying the opportunity to acquire art works of exceptional quality in the heart of Marbella.
Free event 6pm-10pm daily * Palacio de CongressOS, Marbella * www.marbellafair.com
AUGUST
THE CRANBERRIES – August 5
Popular Irish band, The Cranberries, will be visiting Starlite for an amazing performance this summer. The Cranberries have sold over 40 million albums worldwide and are best known for their now classic songs ‘Linger’, ‘Zombie’ and ‘Dreams.’ Their debut album sold over 5 million copies in the US and was number 1 in several territories across the globe including the UK. They currently reach over 2.2 million listeners on Spotify.
Tickets from €55-€275 * Starlite Quarry, Marbella * www.starlitemarbella.com/
MOON DANCE – August 7
Pay homage to the full moon and bask under the glow of the night sky at Nikki Beach’s exclusive Moon Dance Party. Normally daytime entry only, Nikki Beach will open its famed doors at 8pm to welcome revellers to party on the beach full moon style.
Free entry * Nikki Beach Marbella * www.nikkibeach.com
MICHAEL BOLTON – August 10
Michael Bolton achieved worldwide success in the mid-1980s and early 1990s with hits including ‘How Am I Supposed To Live Without You’ and ‘When a Man Loves A Woman’. His achievements include the sale of 53 million albums, 8 albums in the Top Ten, 2 number one singles and a Grammy. A rare opportunity to see the singing sensation return to one of the most beautiful and intimate Marbella.
Tickets priced between €35 and €275* Puente Romano * www.crazymusicproductions.com
DESERT DANCE – August 12
Journey to the desert for an apocalyptic inspired party on August 12 at Nikki Beach celebrating the famous Burning Man festival which runs in the Black Rock Nevada desert this month. Dedicated to community, art and self expression – all are welcome to party Nikki Beach desert style.
Free entry * Nikki Beach Marbella * www.nikkibeach.com
MALAGA FERIA – August 12-19
Malaga Feria is among the biggest and best event ferias on the coast. The day fairs in the tents have an amazing atmosphere where the whole city gets together, which turns into dancing until night and even dawn if you wish. Locals go in traditional Spanish dress and it is always a party remember.
Free event * Malaga City Centre * www.malagaturismo.com
ANDREA BOCELLI – August 15
The internationally hailed tenor and composer Andrea Bocelli, will shine again on the Starlite stage this year after his critically acclaimed 2015, sell-out performance. Andrea Bocelli is indeed a living legend and a must-see. ‘If God could sing, He will do it as Andrea Bocelli’, Celine Dion once said. Starlite is also the only concert date Bocelli has announced in Spain this year.
Tickets from €55-€275* Starlite Quarry, Marbella * www.starlitemarbella.com/
CRAIG DAVID – August 25
Craig David is back. Following his sell out May Bank Holiday and Ocean Club Opening Party performances he is back in August to perform alongside international DJ Russke at Aqwa Mist. Crag David first achieved notoriety in 1999 with track ‘Re-Wind’ with the Artful Dodger. As a solo artist he went onto have 20 UK Top 40 singles, 7 UK top 40 albums and has sold over 15 million albums to date. A true performer and a great act to catch live.
Tickets from €60 * Aqwa Mist, Puerto Banus * www.aqwamistbanus.com
LA TOMATINO August 30
If you’re after a different slice of Spanish culture, La Tomatino, billed as the world’s largest food fight may be your thing. The festivities kick off at 11am where 30,000 revellers gather in the main square to throw 140 tonnes of tomatoes! Steeped in history (as the festival began in 1945 as an anti-Franco protest) and has now emerged as one of the biggest festivals on the coast. Also expect to see parades, fireworks, music and dancing.
Free Event * Plaza del Pueblo, Bunol, Valencia * www.latomatino.es
