Families can step into an enchanting new world of colour, music and acrobatics this summer as Plaza Mayor, the huge outdoor shopping centre between Churriana, and the airport presents Naturaleza Viva, a large-scale outdoor show created entirely in Malaga.

Immersive story of Mother Nature

Visitors join a participatory tale where Mother Nature has lost her voice and needs everyone’s help to restore it. Produced by local firm Producciones Merlin under director Domingo Merlin, the production draws on more than 25 years of cultural entertainment expertise. Costumes have been designed specially for the event; original choreography and high-level acrobatics deliver a contemporary circus-style experience that places Malaga talent centre stage.

Golden forest comes alive across the centre

Three consecutive weekends turn Plaza Mayor into a living stage. A lively parade of nature-inspired creatures winds through the main avenues, guiding crowds to the Central Plaza for the main performance. Every element—from storytelling and movement to live music—invites spectators of all ages to take an active role rather than simply watch.

Performance dates and extra late-night events

Shows run on Fridays and Saturdays from 17 July to 1 August. Each evening begins at 8pm with the parade and concludes with the full production in the Central Plaza. Shoppers can also enjoy late-night shopping sessions on July 31 and August 27, extending the festive atmosphere well into the evening.

Marta Arana, Marketing Director at Plaza Mayor, said: “We want every visit to become a memorable experience. Naturaleza Viva captures exactly that spirit—high-quality artistry that entertains while encouraging people to value the natural world around us.”

About the venue

Plaza Mayor is still Malaga’s largest open-air retail and leisure complex, its architecture modelled on a traditional Andalusian village. Located just two kilometres from Malaga Airport, the centre offers 45,000 square metres of shops plus parking for more than 3,000 vehicles.

Naturaleza Viva gives both locals and visitors a chance to create lasting family memories through art, emotion and a gentle reminder of nature’s importance.

Free show for shoppers and their families. Credit: PM

Families and their four-legged friends can join an evening of fun as Marbella’s popular Family Dog Day is returning on Saturday, July 25. A night full of entertainment, community spirit and support for animal welfare taking over Plaza de Toros.

Family event returns to Plaza de Toros

Fancy an evening out where you can take your pet with you? Marbella Town Hall has again put themselves behind another Dia del Perro en Familia (Family Dog Day), organised by the Plaza de Toros Neighbourhood Association. Activities will begin at 8pm on Saturday, July 25, at the children’s park in the Plaza de Toros neighbourhood, where residents are invited to attend with their furry friends.

Councillor Enrique Rodriguez described the gathering as an established summer event that attracts visitors from across the local area. He said the initiative encourages respect for public spaces, raises awareness of animal welfare and brings neighbours together in a family-friendly setting.

Costume contest, live music and family entertainment

Those joining the event will get the chance to enjoy a canine exhibition, a pet fancy dress competition, children’s entertainment, a bouncy castle, live music, courtesy of Las Hermanas Cervera, raffle draws with a variety of prizes and to top it all off a food and drink bar selling a full range of reasonably priced refreshments. Gift packs will also be given out by the town’s health department to people attending with their dogs.

Dogs will be permitted inside the park for the event, despite the usual restrictions. Note, the water play area will remain closed and fenced off throughout the evening for hygiene and safety reasons.

Triple A charity appeal

Triple A will host a charity information stand where visitors can learn more about the organisation’s fantastic work and make donations to support abandoned animals. Neighbourhood association president Rafael Jimenez said the event was created to encourage positive relationships between dog owners and other residents. Organisers are hoping for another well-supported evening that brings together fun, family entertainment and fundraising. For more information visit the Marbella town hall website.