Marbella’s Plaza de Toros neighbourhood party is back with free carnival, music and water fun

Residents of Marbella’s Plaza de Toros barrio are getting ready for three days of big neighbourly local fun from Friday, August 28 to Sunday, 30. Music, carnival, dancing and a kids’ water bash will fill the old bullring and the nearby children’s park once again after last year’s huge success. The now annual celebration has progressed from what was once considered a block party, now being given an official space.

Organised by the Asociación de Vecinos Plaza de Toros with solid backing from Marbella council, the velada keeps its traditional roots while giving everyone something to enjoy. Gerardo López, the association president, reckons the bullring makes an apt venue for cultural and neighbourly get-togethers without losing the barrio’s character. Best of all, no parking spots disappear and no roads get shut, as everything stays inside the planned spaces.

Friday kicks off with paella and carnival

Friday’s action starts at the Centro de Participación Activa de Mayores Plaza de Toros. A big communal paella is on the menu, followed by the crowning of the centre’s own king and queen. Later that evening a free carnival show rolls in, put together with the help of the Los Nocheros association. Local performers and artists from Cadiz province will keep the crowd dancing.

Saturday brings coronations and live acts

Saturday 29 centres on the much-awaited crowning of the velada’s queens and kings. Once the crowns are on, the music takes over. Hermanas Cervera open the night, then Barrichi Colorao and Marbella’s own Davinia step up. The council has praised the teamwork between the local authorities and the neighbours’ group that keeps this long-running tradition alive. She is calling on locals from all over Marbella to join in and enjoy the barrio’s unique spirit.

Sunday belongs to the children

Sunday 30 hands the stage to the little ones with a water festival in the local park. Rafael Jiménez, the association secretary, says the hope is to keep building the event so it works for older folk, youngsters, families and kids right across the weekend.

Full details are on the official Marbella council page. Expect a proper community knees-up that sticks to its roots while welcoming everyone.