Costa Blanca social calendar: Music, festivals and family days out

From hobby horse racing in the Hondon Valley to live music in Orihuela and wine tasting under the stars in Monóvar, the Costa Blanca social calendar is packed with entertainment this summer. Whether you are searching for family fun, charity events, theatre, art exhibitions or nights out with friends, here are some of the best upcoming events happening across the region.

Hobby horse racing comes to Hondon de las Nieves

Anyone looking for something completely different on the Costa Blanca this month may want to head to Hondon de las Nieves, where HOVAR is hosting an afternoon of hobby horse racing, fundraising and family entertainment.

The charity event takes place on Sunday, 31 May from 2 pm at Finca La Montanosa and aims to raise funds for the animals cared for by HOVAR, the Hondon Valley Animal Rescue organisation.

Unlike a traditional race night, guests will become part of the action themselves, with hobby horses provided for participants to race throughout the afternoon. Organisers promise plenty of laughs, audience participation and light-hearted competition.

Each race will include prizes for successful predictions, while winners from every round will qualify for a final “champion of champions” showdown and trophy presentation.

Visitors can also enjoy food included with entry, raffle prizes, charity stalls and family entertainment throughout the day.

Tickets cost €14, including entry and food. They are available from the HOVAR shop in Hondon de las Nieves or via WhatsApp on (+34) 676 558 432.

HOVAR continues its work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming dogs and cats across the Hondon Valley.

Studio 32 brings 9 to 5 The Musical to San Fulgencio

Musical theatre fans on the Costa Blanca can enjoy a lively production of 9 to 5 The Musical this May at the Cardinal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio.

Presented by Studio 32, the show is based on the popular film and features music and lyrics written by Dolly Parton exclusively for the stage adaptation.

Set in the late 1970s, the story follows office workers Violet, Judy and Doralee as they battle against their difficult and sexist boss before finally deciding to take matters into their own hands.

Packed with humour, friendship and familiar songs, the production promises energetic performances and an entertaining evening from start to finish.

Performances take place on Wednesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 May at 7.30 pm, with additional shows on Saturday 30 May at 2 pm and 7.30 pm.

Tickets cost €12 and can be booked online through Studio 32 or by calling (+34) 679 062 272.

Orihuela Costa Charity Walk returns

Residents across the Orihuela Costa are being invited to lace up their trainers for this year’s Walk for Life charity fundraiser organised by Maria and the Pink Ladies.

The annual event takes place on Sunday 7 June, beginning at approximately 11am from the Emerald Isle in La Florida.

Participants will complete a 5km walk before returning for an afternoon of entertainment.

Registration costs €5, while children under 16 can join free of charge. Everyone taking part will receive complimentary water provided by the Emerald Isle alongside a gift donated by Spain Property Shop.

Maria Wilson founded the Pink Ladies following her own breast cancer diagnosis. The charity has since become one of the Costa Blanca’s best-known cancer support organisations, helping patients and families across the region.

Online registration is now open and sponsor forms are available from the Pink Ladies office in Playa Flamenca.

Orihuela’s Murales de San Isidro Festival returns

Orihuela is preparing for a vibrant weekend of music, art and street culture as the Murales de San Isidro festival returns from 22 to 24 May.

Held in the city’s famous San Isidro neighbourhood, known for its colourful murals and urban artwork, the festival transforms the streets into an open-air celebration of live music and creativity.

The event begins on Friday evening with a performance by El Duende Callejero before continuing throughout Saturday with concerts from Los Trompas de Elefante, Las Hienas and Glaziar.

The closing performance takes place on Sunday at midday with Instinto Primate performing among the district’s iconic murals.

The annual festival has become one of Orihuela’s best-known cultural weekends.

Wine Tasting Under the Stars in Monóvar

Wine lovers can enjoy a unique new summer experience in Monóvar with the launch of the “Night of Stars and Wine” series.

The outdoor events will take place at the new Torre viewpoint, combining sunset views with guided tastings from some of the region’s best-known wineries.

Three local producers are taking part: Bodegas Ortigosa, Santa Catalina del Manyar and Bodegas Monover.

The first event on 12 June will feature Bodegas Ortigosa and introduce visitors to the new Tangerian wine during an evening themed around history, sea and wine.

Further evenings will follow on 26 June and 2 July, including a special tasting focused on the Monastrell grape variety, which is closely linked to the Alicante region.

Tickets cost €20 and advance booking is required through the Monóvar tourist office.

Retro Rock & Roll Night at Chester Rock & Grill

Fans of classic Rock & Roll can step back in time this May when Chester Rock & Grill hosts its special “Back to the Future” live music night.

Taking place on Friday 29 May from 9.30 pm, the event features The Rock and Rollers performing hits inspired by the 1950s, 60s and 70s.

Audiences can expect music from legendary artists including Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Haley, Gene Vincent and Little Richard.

Organisers promise a nostalgic evening filled with retro fashion, vintage jukebox vibes and plenty of dancing.

Due to expected demand, advance reservations are recommended.

Aqua Aerobics sessions grow in popularity in Algorfa

Residents searching for a fun way to stay active during the Costa Blanca summer heat may be interested in the weekly aqua aerobics classes now running in Algorfa.

The sessions take place every Tuesday from 11 am to midday at the Hotel Restaurant Bar Algorfa and are suitable for all fitness levels.

Aqua aerobics continues to grow in popularity thanks to its low-impact approach, allowing participants to improve cardio fitness, flexibility and strength while placing less pressure on joints.

Classes cost €7 per session, although organisers say advance booking will become essential from 26 May due to increasing demand.