Marbella’s got a new free night out, and it’s nothing like the usual beach bar scene

Fancy swapping the norm for something a little different this month? One corner of Marbella is about to get very loud, very creative, and completely free to attend.

An event built for kids with real talent

Nueva Andalucia is going urban on Saturday, August 22 for the Ring Battle Showcase, a free rap-battle event put together to give young local talent a proper spotlight. Grab a spot in the car park at the Centro Polivalente from 5.30pm and settle in for an evening that’s all about community and competition.

This event has grown into what it is today from a smaller version in the gardens of Nueva Andalucia’s Tenencia de Alcaldia. What started as a group of friends doing things their own way, has now teamed up with the town hall, and this year’s edition is a much bigger night as a result.

So what can you actually expect and do you want to take part?

Get there from the beginning and you’ll catch a DJ set from 5.30pm, with free walk-up registration open until 6.30pm for anyone hoping to compete. Pairings get sorted shortly after, and the real action kicks off at 7pm, with battle rounds and showcases running late into the evening, broken up by live music to keep the energy going.

There’s plenty to add to the urban atmosphere. A graffiti mural will be taking shape live on site,  fashion stalls will be dotted about, and a bar keeps everyone fuelled. Streetwear brands are also expected to pop up throughout, so it’s worth wandering beyond the main stage and having an explore.

All ages welcome to join the fun

You don’t need to be a rap fan to enjoy this one, families are all included, and anyone tempted to grab the mic themselves can sign up in advance by messaging the organisers directly on social media. Once battles begin, two competitors go head-to-head, improvising on the spot within set rounds.

The project has been backed enthusiastically by the Town Hall, they describe it as ‘all about supporting local art and talent’. Rather than bringing in outside names, organisers deliberately sought out performers from Marbella, San Pedro Alcantara, La Campana and Estepona, giving proper recognition to what’s already thriving right on the doorstep.

So if you fancy an alternative evening away from the beach bars and restaurants and would like to experience something new, or if you are well into your freestyle, graffiti, and rap, then this Ring Battle Showcase is worth popping in the diary.