Torre del Mar is limbering up to host a massive wave of solidarity this weekend, June 20 and 21. People in the area are being asked to trade their usual beachwear for pink T-shirts to support the fight against the terrible amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS], widely known across Spain as ELA.

The multi-sport event, running under the banner #ImparablesContraLaELA2026 (Unstoppable Against ALS), is organised by the “Stick your tongue out at ALS” association to raise important funds for medical research and patient care.

Beachfront charity sports and live entertainment

The main location for the 24-hour event will be the Al Son del Rebalaje stage on the Torre del Mar promenade, with activities officially kicking off on Friday evening. Backed by Velez-Malaga Council, the weekend is bringing a packed programme of more than 25 non-stop sports activities, exhibitions, and live concerts.

Most family activities are entirely free, and spectator entry is open to the public without any pre-registration. Visitors can show up to cheer on participants in cycling, running, trail sports, yoga, padel, basketball, and beach volleyball. There will also be a charity open-water swim challenge along the coast on Sunday with dedicated children’s play areas to keep the little ones happy.

Night race to light up the promenade

One of the major events of the weekend is the evening athletics event on Saturday, June 20. The 11th three-mile road race and the 33rd one-mile street race. Night races will start and finish at the main promenade stage beginning at 9pm, featuring categories ranging from young children up to veteran masters.

Official online competitive race registration has now closed, but organisers are heavily encouraging the public to line the route to cheer on the runners. Spectators can enjoy a spectacular sea of pink along the coast, as wearing the signature event shirt is mandatory for all active competitors.

How to buy merchandise and support the cause

Even if you are not running in the official night race, there are plenty of ways for the community to support the charity. A dedicated “Stick your tongue out at ALS” pop-up shop will be set up at the promenade stage throughout the entire weekend.

Visitors can buy the official pink event T-shirts, swimming caps, and other charity items directly from the stand to show their support. All proceeds go directly towards financing scientific research into ALS and providing specialised equipment to improve the quality of life for those living with the neurodegenerative condition. Updates on activity schedules can be found on the Velez-Malaga town hall Facebook pages.

Communities along the Axarquia and Costa Tropical coastlines are preparing for San Juan through beach bonfires, fireworks and organised live music events from Tuesday 23 June to Wednesday 24 June. These occasions let residents and visitors honour longstanding customs that centre on fire as a symbol of purification and new beginnings.

Rincon de la Victoria features live music and midnight Jua burning

Rincon de la Victoria stages events across La Cala del Moral and Torre de Benagalbon with music and midnight jua burning on the beaches, a practice that resembles Guy Fawkes night as large fires light at midnight for all to enjoy and effigies are burnt.

Torre del Mar presents concerts at El Copo Beach

Torre del Mar is hosting performances by famous singers at El Copo beach from 8pm onwards with jua burning and fireworks finale that illuminates the shoreline.

Salobreña runs week-long programme with bonfire night

Salobreña offers live entertainment and pyrotechnics around a bonfire on La Charca beach as part of its week-long programme with a procession on 24 June that adds a formal touch to the celebrations.

Almuñecar encourages burning old items for luck

Out with the old, and in with the new. Almuñecar celebrates with bonfires and barbecues on Puerta del Mar and La Herradura where participants burn old items to invite good luck into their lives for the coming period.

Nerja applies strict conditions to bonfire permits

Nerja allows bonfires this year on main beaches yet demands strict adherence to cleanup and quiet rules to keep the events safe and minimise disturbance to residents and wildlife.

Torrox arranges daytime events in main plaza

Torrox is planning for daytime plaza events on Wednesday as part of the San Juan programme to provide options for families avoiding late-night beach activities.

Everyone involved hopes for clear weather to allow full enjoyment of the outdoor activities. Traditions like these strengthen community bonds across the coastal towns and villages of the area.

Costa Tropical skies roar once more. Credit: Motril festival aereo FB