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.

Completion of the final section of cycleable path means that Nerja and Maro now share a continuous cycle route measuring nearly 3.5 kilometres in total. Everyone on two wheels and with no motor can now have an option for moving between the two locations by bicycle in a manner that prioritises safety and reduces environmental impact.

Nerja to Maro cycle path final section details

The last section of cycle infrastructure now covers 1,200 metres. It extends from positions near the bridge entrance over Barranco de Maro on the old N-340 highway to the roundabout at the western approach to Maro. The recent finalisation of construction works and formal signing of the reception certificate has allowed immediate opening to the public.

NextGenerationEU funding for Nerja and Maro bike route

This stretch has received over €410,000 in support provided by European Union resources. Money came through the Destination Tourism Sustainability Plan, which is backed by NextGenerationEU. Overall project costs reached more than €1,229,000 with contributions from both council budgets and European programmes.

Benefits of Nerja to Maro cycle route for mobility

People living in Nerja and Maro, as well as holidaymakers, now can celebrate an accessible path dedicated to both bicycles and pedestrians. Such facilities encourage physical activity as part of daily routines and support efforts to reduce pollution and congestion from short journeys. Connectivity between the main town and the smaller settlement improves while the surrounding landscape receives greater recognition for its natural qualities.

Comments from Nerja mayor José Alberto Armijo

The mayor of Nerja, José Alberto Armijo, has said that opening this finishing touch completes a major project for the area. Resources invested totalled over €1.2 million through mixed financing that demonstrates an ongoing focus on safe conditions for those on foot or two wheels. Promotion of beneficial health habits and stronger ties between communities also forms part of the goals as well as appreciation for local scenery and heritage.

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.