The water of the Mar Menor is certainly looking to be a busy place during May 2025, with the Splash-In seaplane festival over the weekend of May 2 to 4 being closely followed by the Spanish Optimist class sailing cup between May 14 and 18 Taking part will be 155 top sailors from all over Spain basing themselves for the duration of the championship at the Club Náutico Mar Menor in Los Alcázares – although some will also take part in the “Precopa” filling this part of the Mar Menor with sails as the competitors speed across the water This is yet another event consolidating the growing reputation of Los Alcázares as a venue for top Sporting competitions making sports one of the most important and Dynamic sectors of the local economy according to councillor Pedro Pascual Lamas For more local information contact the tourist offices in Los Alcázares or go to the home page of Los Alcázares Today Despite being a relatively small municipality Los Alcázares relies to such a large extent on year-round tourism that it operates two tourist information offices one in the town itself and the other in the seafront district of Los Narejos The fully qualified staff at both offices strive to provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your time in Los Alcázares things to do and upcoming events in the area as well as practical help The multitude of leaflets on offer will help you to fully enjoy the Costa Cálida and the Mar Menor Additional opening hours in summer during the afternoon weekdays 17.00 to 19.00 and on Saturday and Sunday mornings 10.00 to 13.00 Open on weekdays 9.00 to 14.00 throughout the year and thank you for choosing CamposolToday.com to publicise your organisation’s info or event Camposol Today is a website set up by Murcia Today specifically for residents of the urbanisation in Southwest Murcia providing news and information on what’s happening in the local area which is the largest English-speaking expat area in the Region of Murcia When submitting text to be included on Camposol Today please abide by the following guidelines so we can upload your article as swiftly as possible: Send an email to editor@camposoltoday.com or contact@murciatoday.com Attach the information in a Word Document or Google Doc Also attach a photo to illustrate your article Mission Statement: to assist the integration of foreign residents living in Spain and this is never more accurate than when you establish yourself as a foreign resident in a new country Being able to quickly familiarise yourself with the culture and customs can help ease the transition during a challenging time This is why Euro Weekly News makes it our mission to provide you with a free news resource in English that covers both regional and national Spanish news – anything that we feel you will benefit from knowing as you integrate into your new community and live your best life in Spain you can forget about translating articles from Spanish into awkward English that probably don’t make much sense Let us be your convenient and essential guide to all things that will likely affect you as a foreign resident living in Spain Blaze Starts Near La Hita Area in Santiago de la Ribera A wildfire broke out early Tuesday afternoon, April 29, near the La Hita area in Santiago de la Ribera, close to San Javier Airport has prompted a swift response from emergency services across the region of Murcia According to the Region of Murcia’s emergency coordination centre several calls were received from 1:11 pm onwards reporting flames near the military zone Firefighters from the Regional Fire and Rescue Consortium (CEIS) and the Air Force Academy were dispatched and two helicopters carrying airborne firefighting teams Local police from San Javier and Los Alcázares also joined the operation to control the blaze Although the full extent of the damage remains unknown authorities have warned residents living nearby to take precautions People are advised to keep windows closed as ash may travel into residential areas Officials have also requested that the public avoid the affected zone for safety reasons there is no confirmed information about how the fire began or how many hectares have been affected Emergency services continue to monitor and control the situation Read more Costa Calida news, articles, and events here Subscribe to our Euro Weekly News alerts to get the latest stories into your inbox There is a yellow dust on everything in Roda Golf Is this related and is this dangerous for kids I will see if I can find out any more information about it and let you know Website#cd90e6d786c4de72b3d4ea38{display:none} Euro Weekly News is the leading English language newspaper in Spain by delivering news with a social conscience we are proud to be the voice for the expat communities who now call Spain home With around half a million print readers a week and over 1.5 million web views per month EWN has the biggest readership of any English language newspaper in Spain The paper prints over 150 news stories a week with many hundreds more on the web – no one else even comes close Our publication has won numerous awards over the last 25 years including Best Free Newspaper of the Year (Premios AEEPP) Company of the Year (Costa del Sol Business Awards) and Collaboration with Foreigners honours (Mijas Town Hall) All of this comes at ZERO cost to our readers All our print and online content always has been and always will be FREE OF CHARGE Download our media pack in either English or Spanish While most of the rest of the Region of Murcia spends Easter Week with its religious processions, some of them solemn and some rather less so, Los Alcázares heads in another direction and celebrates the local history with the Fiestas of the Berber Pirate Raids (“Incursiones Berberiscas”) These fiestas are a relatively recent addition to the calendar in Los Alcázares but have become extremely popular entailing as they do a huge medieval market live music and an enormous offer of food and drink And it’s not only the locals who take part as visitors flock to Los Alcázares to enjoy their Semana Santa holidays on the shore of the Mar Menor apart from the market which runs for 4 days this year and occupies around 1.5 kilometres of streets are the lighting of the fiestas flame on Thursday April 17 the Medieval Tourney and the grand parade on Saturday 19th and the second day of the Tourney and the Caldero stewpot throwing event on Sunday April 20 In addition there is a host of other entertainment activities for children and a list of other events so long it is impossible to reproduce here The full program for the 2025 Fiestas de las Incursiones Berberiscas can be found in Spanish online here with the highlights including the following: 11.00: Official opening of the fiestas and parade from the “campamento festero” to the medieval marlet where the opening speech is given in Plaza D 12.00: “Búsqueda del Tesoro Berberisco” a children’s activity at the Campamento Festero 17.00 and 19.00: Falconry display in Calle Adelfas 14.00: A group performing Moroccan music and dance takes to the streets 17.00: Oriental dancing in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento 17.30: 13th-century King Alfonso X El Sabio takes a walk through the market 18.30: Live music from Eddie Rever at the Campamento Festero 19.00: A group of Vikings begins strolling through the market 21.00: Circus acts in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento 22.00: The official opening of the Campamento Festero and a parade to the Paseo de la Concha for the lighting of the fiestas flame 22.30: Music and fireworks at the Playa de la Concha 00.00: Live music from Orquesta Maxims at the Campamento Festero 12.00: Berberchef interpeñas at the Campamento Festero 16.30: “Vía Crucis” at the Campamento Festero 17.00: Circus acts in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento 17.30: Teddy bears competition at the Campamento Festero 21.00: The “DESEMBARCO BERBERISCO”, the landing of the Berbers at the Playa de la Concha Stands for spectators open at 20.00 and are free of charge but are likely to fill up quickly fire and circus acts in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento 00.00: Live music at the Campamento Festero with “Muchachito Bombo Infierno” 11.30: Circus acts and acrobats in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento 21.00: The grand parade of the Incursiones Berberiscas en el Mar Menor featuring Christian and Berber fiestas groups The parade takes place in Carril de las Palmeras and proceeds along Avenida de la Libertad to the Ayuntamiento guests from other municipalities and medieval entertainments Midnight: Live music from Orquesta La Mundial at the Campamento Festero fish stew pot throwing competition on Playa de la Concha 21.30: Grand firework display to end the fiestas in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento Los Alcázares is getting ready to host one of its most exciting events of the year this coastal town in the Mar Menor will be transformed into a medieval world filled with music Visitors can enjoy an authentic medieval market and traditional performances that bring the past to life The Berber Raids Festival celebrates its 24th edition this year continuing a tradition that attracts both locals and tourists The event recreates the historical raids of Berber pirates along the Mediterranean coast the festival offers an engaging way to learn about the past while enjoying a great atmosphere This year’s festival includes a range of traditional activities such as: A major highlight of the festival is the Medieval Market Visitors can browse a variety of handcrafted goods There will also be plenty of traditional food and sweets to try offering a taste of the past in an exciting marketplace setting The festival will be even more exciting this year with three big concerts at the festival camp Music lovers can enjoy live performances from local and regional artists This year’s festival is set to be bigger than ever with 22 local groups participating in various events A stunning new festival poster designed by artist Marte Rizo has been unveiled well-known Murcian author Jerónimo Tristante has been named as the festival’s herald Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera has invited everyone to experience the festival calling it a fun and unique way to celebrate Easter in Los Alcázares the Berber Raids Festival promises to be an unforgettable event for visitors of all ages Don’t miss out on this incredible medieval experience Read more Costa Calida news and events here It has been confirmed that Los Alcázares is once again holding a seaplane airshow during the first week of May this year celebrating the importance of the town as one of the pioneers in the field of hydro-aviation in Spain and prove a popular attraction among both locals and visitors This year’s “SPLASH-IN” festival is actually being held at 2 venues starting between April 30 and May 2 in Pollença in Mallorca before the planes and their pilots fly to Los Alcázares for two more days of exhibitions Among those already confirmed to be taking part are flyers from Spain and others are expected to join the festival two of the largest present will be a Donisilestar and a Tuaila No which are bound to be one of the major attractions both for aviation buffs and for less informed members of the public another big draw will be the Copa Schneider SIGLO XXI competition in which pilots show off their ability and precision over a course without the aid of GPS or modern technology The schedule for the weekend includes the following events: 17.00: The seaplanes begin to arrive at Playa Manzanares in Los Alcázares 9.30 to 14.00: DJ music on Playa Manzanares 10.00 to 12.00: The Copa Schneider "Siglo XXI" event takes place.  10.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 1900: Flight simulators next to the jetty on Playa Manzanares 11.00: Children's workshops at the Museo Aeronáutico 18.00: Conferences at the Museo Aeronáutico 10.00 to 14.00: More seaplanes landing and taking off at Playa Manzanares 11.00: Children's workshops at the Museo Aeronáutico LOS ALCÁZARES was busy this weekend as locals and visitors headed to Olé Fest to enjoy live music took over Avenida Río Nalón and the Boulevard Oasis drawing crowds throughout the day and into the evening Many people wore traditional flamenco dresses and flowers in their hair and families clapped along to the music or stopped to watch the dancers friendly atmosphere with something for everyone Shops and cafés in the area stayed open and saw plenty of customers thanks to the steady flow of people The event gave businesses a boost and brought neighbours and visitors together in one place The town hall thanked everyone who helped out They said events like this are a good way to keep the town lively and give people a chance to enjoy something special without having to travel far RECENTLY the mayor of Los Alcázares joined local councillors and members of the Sikh community to celebrate Vaisakhi an important spring festival in the Sikh religion and Punjabi culture Vaisakhi celebrates the beginning of the Sikh community known as the Khalsa and is a time for families and communities to come together The event was attended by Sikh representatives from across Spain and brought people together in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere the mayor spoke with community members about a project called ‘Convive’ ‘Convive’ is a local project that helps students and families learn about respect The mayor thanked the Sikh community for helping to make Los Alcázares a more open and inclusive place to live The day was a clear example of how people from different backgrounds can come together to share and celebrate THIS year’s Spring Festival in Murcia saw a huge rise in visitors with 1.3 million people attending the Entierro de la Sardina (burial of the sardine) parade early reports show a big increase in attendance across the major events The Bando de la Huerta celebration also grew The Batalla de las Flores (battle of the flowers) also saw more visitors reaching 390,000 compared to 350,000 last year Hotel bookings were strong during Semana Santa (holy week) and nearly full capacity on Good Friday at 96 per cent peaking at 96 per cent on the day of the Entierro de la Sardina The Bando de la Huerta day saw 85 per cent occupancy Mayor Ballesta highlighted the growing popularity of the Entierro de la Sardina and Bando de la Huerta and praised the rising interest in the Batalla de las Flores people at the Mazarrón Day Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities enjoyed a special activity: animal therapy sessions with the Centauro Quirón Foundation and two friendly dogs visited the centre to help show how animals can support emotional and mental well-being The dogs helped create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where everyone felt safe and included Many said the experience made them feel more positive and less stressed Animal therapy is known to help people feel better especially those who may find it hard to express their emotions it gave people the chance to connect with the animals and enjoy their company Mazarrón Town Hall thanked the foundation and everyone who took part They hope to see more activities like this in the future THE first-ever underwater clean-up took place at Marina de las Salinas in San Pedro del Pinatar organised by MoonDive Diving Centre and the marina The event brought together a group of volunteers committed to protecting the marine environment worked together to remove trash from the harbour’s seabed and nearby areas around 500 kilograms of rubbish were collected helping to protect the local ecosystem and raise awareness about the importance of keeping our oceans clean a mark of environmental quality and sustainable port management This certification shows the marina’s commitment to protecting the environment which encourages responsible diving and environmental education Local councillors attended the event and thanked everyone for their participation They also encouraged future clean-ups and events to raise awareness about the importance of protecting nature Read more Costa Calida news, articles and events here Website#c5b8d84ee4b331075e1138c7{display:none} As part of the 6th annual cycle of chamber music in Los Alcázares this concert by Intermezzo is a homage to the musique of the baroque showing how each piece composed was designed to stir the emotions of the audience.  Alessandro Scarlatti – Cantata  Mi Tormenta il Pensiere Georg Friedrich Händel – Cantata Clori Petro Antonio Locatelli – Violin and harpsichord sonata in D major Alessandro Scarlatti – Cantata Ombre tácito e Sole The performers are counter tenor Pedro  Pérez harpsichord specialist Marina López Manzanera and violinist Darling Dyle The performance at the Town Hall of Los Alcázares on 27th April begins at 20.00 with admission free of charge The annual Fiestas of the Berber Pirate Raids in Los Alcázares continues to grow in popularity year after year and in 2025 the Town Hall reports that tens of thousands of people flocked to the 4-day medieval market and other events during the second half of Easter Week This represents a pre-summer boost for the tourism sector of the local economy and due to a combination of the fine holiday weather and the range of historical re-enactments entertainment and Merry-making led to hotel and tourist accommodation occupancy in the municipality reaching over 90 per cent with many establishments reporting full houses in which there is great interest and for which the programme will be announced during this week Next year the fiestas reach their 25th anniversary and plans are already being made for a special edition of the Fiestas de las Incursiones Berberiscas further cementing its place as one of the most popular events during Semana Santa in the Costa Cálida A new spot for food lovers has opened at Calle Santa Isabel 25 in Los Alcázares El Rincón de Cristina is the latest venture from Cristina a familiar face to many locals thanks to her previous role at the Club Náutico café-bar Many regulars remember her warm and friendly service and now she brings that same charm to her own place Cristina welcomes everyone to enjoy breakfast and lunch in a cosy and welcoming atmosphere She has created a space that feels like home where both locals and visitors can relax and enjoy good food Whether you’re stopping by for a casual coffee or a full meal Cristina makes sure every guest feels like part of the family The menu includes a mix of classic Spanish dishes with a special focus on rice dishes like paellas and calderos (traditional Murcian rice stew) These hearty meals are perfect for sharing and are cooked with fresh Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or a filling lunch Cristina’s daily menus are a popular choice and Cristina is happy to cater to dietary needs whenever possible Open for early risers and lunchtime diners El Rincón de Cristina promises delicious home-style cooking with friendly service You can start your day with a fresh coffee and pastry or enjoy a leisurely brunch with friends The relaxed setting makes it just as easy to grab a quick bite as it is to settle in for a long lunch The local councillor for Economic Development recently stopped by to support the new business and wish Cristina success His visit highlights the strong sense of community in Los Alcázares and the town’s support for local entrepreneurs For more information or to reserve a table El Rincón de Cristina is located at Calle Santa Isabel 25 Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area this new eatery is well worth adding to your list Read more dining out recommendations here A new dining spot has opened in Los Alcázares the famous crispy fried fish that is a staple of southern Spain The restaurant has been renovated and reopened under new management has given the place a fresh look while keeping its traditional feel locals and tourists have another great option for enjoying authentic Spanish food in town The restaurant has already received official support the town’s Economic Development Councillor visited the opening to welcome the business and wish it a success His visit highlights the importance of small businesses in growing the local economy Tapería La Malagueta’s menu focuses on simple diners can expect other well-loved Andalucian dishes making it a good spot for both relaxed meals and special occasions Tapería La Malagueta has a variety of tapas that reflect the food of Andalucia Expect to find classic dishes like gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar) allowing the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine The restaurant also has a selection of regional wines and beers The relaxed and inviting atmosphere of Tapería La Malagueta makes it a perfect place for all dining experiences Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch with friends The friendly staff and warm and comfortable setting where guests can unwind and enjoy their meal offers a pleasant space to soak in the local views and atmosphere while enjoying the delicious food The opening of Tapería La Malagueta is a boost to the local economy of Los Alcázares Small businesses like this play a crucial role in creating jobs and attracting both residents and tourists The support from the town’s Economic Development Councillor highlights the importance of promoting local businesses By choosing to dine at Tapería La Malagueta their customers are directly contributing to the growth and prosperity of the community To make sure you get a table at Tapería La Malagueta You can easily book your table by calling 682 761 698 The restaurant is conveniently located on Calle Santo Tomás making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors The friendly staff are ready to welcome you and provide an authentic Andalucian dining experience in Los Alcazares Read more Dining out on the Costas recommendations here. This year the Saint’s Day of Saint Patrick is being celebrated in style in Los Alcázares free live music and general festivity in the bars and pubs of the town From March 14 to 17 scratch cards are being sold with great cash prizes up for grabs and over the course of the weekend a wide range of beers are being offered at local hostelries – more than 150 glasses free of charge as a result of the scratch card lottery Other prizes include dinners valued at 50 euros each according to Councillor Pedro José Sánchez 15.00; A Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in Avenida Río Nalón Sign up to take part in the prize draws here Los Alcázares is gearing up to welcome back the exciting Splash-IN hydroplane festival from May 2 to May 4 This event will bring together pilots from around the world for aerial displays and a deep dive into the history of seaplanes in Spain Pilots will show off their skills over the waters of Mallorca before making their way to Los Alcázares on May 2 for the main event This second phase of the festival will offer even more aerial displays and a chance for spectators to see these incredible aircraft up close with three coming from Spain and others arriving from Italy More aircraft are expected to join as the event approaches the Spanish Air Force will participate with firefighting seaplanes demonstrating their critical role in wildfire prevention and emergency response performing impressive aerial maneuvers that are sure to entertain aviation fans and spectators Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera highlighted that Splash-IN 2025 is not just for aviation fans but for the entire community ‘Splash-IN isn’t just for aviation fans it’s a great way for everyone to see these incredible planes in action and learn about their deep ties to Los Alcázares,’ he said and locals will all have the opportunity to witness these aircraft in flight and explore their history One of the festival’s key highlights is the Schneider ‘SIGLO XXI’ Cup an exciting competition where pilots must navigate a challenging course without using GPS they will rely on traditional navigation skills showcasing the precision and expertise required to fly seaplanes Visitors can expect a weekend filled with action and stunning views of seaplanes soaring over the waters of Los Alcázares THE holiday season is just around the corner, and Los Alcázares is already getting ready to celebrate in style there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas The fun kicks off on December 1 with the Christmas lighting ceremony where the town will light up in celebration The Belén Municipal (municipal nativity scene) opens on December 13 If you’re in the mood for some Christmas shopping be sure to check out the Mercadillo Navideño (Christmas Market) running from December 18 to January 6 Navidadlandia (Christmas land) will be open from December 20 to January 6 don’t miss the Baño de Navidad (Christmas Dip) on December 22 a unique way to dive into the Christmas spirit It’s clear that Los Alcázares has plenty of festive plans to make this holiday season special Keep an eye on the town hall social media pages for more information and events Read more Costa Calida news, articles and events here The skies over Los Alcázares may be quiet these days particularly since the closure to passenger flights of the nearby airport in San Javier but 100 years ago the town was at the forefront of Spanish aviation pioneering In 1916 the first military seaplane base in Spain was opened and over the following decades this was one of the most important installations of its kind in Europe both from a military point of view and in the world of aviation along with the burgeoning tourism activity a vital factor in the growth of the town in the early 20th century as personnel were stationed here and civilian workers migrated to Los Alcázares in order to find employment It was a strategically important centre during the Spanish Civil War (1936-39) and subsequently but of course in the second half of the century its importance waned and seaplane or hydroplane flights ceased many years ago the buildings and facilities still remain at the southern edge of the town and free guided tours are sometimes offered during which insights can be gained into how the facility worked and the impact it had on the town Also included are stories about some of Spain’s most important aviators brother of the man who was Spain’s dictator for decades although he never lived to see it – he lost his life while on a bombing mission during the Civil War before Francisco Franco emerged the victor in the conflict One of these free tours is being held on Saturday March 29 at 10.00, starting at the main entrance to the base, and registration is available by email to cultura@losalcazares.es. Those taking part are asked to arrive 15 minutes before hand and the visit is directed at those aged over 12 For more local information contact the tourist offices in Los Alcázares or go to the home page of Los Alcázares Today.  particularly since the closure to Passenger flights of the nearby airport in San Javier Click here for a brief history of Los Alcázares After a lengthy period of deliberation Colonel Vives chose the site in Los Alcázares as the ideal location for Spain’s first military seaplane base and in December 2015 a Curtis seaplane was already flying over the waters of the Mar Menor surveying the area Within months the pilots were integrating into the life of the town and during the annual summer regattas in 2016 the flights of Captains Valencia White and Navarro thrilled the crowds on the shore More land was expropriated by the national government in 1920 to build an Aeronautics School and one of the students admitted that year was Rafael Martínez Esteve The facilities were further increased in 1921 when Aerial Combat and Bombardment School was created and the Conde de Romanones donated the island of Perdiguera (in the Mar Menor) to the military for use as a gun base The first practice shots were fired there on 17th November of that year The growing importance of Los Alcázares was illustrated on 12th May 1922 by a visit from Prince Alonso de Orleáns a keen aviator who stayed overnight in the Hotel-Balneario de La Encarnación which still remains on the seafront in the town before indulging in some light machine-gun practice and flying a Bristol aircraft the following day This was followed by the first night flights at Los Alcázares piloted by Súnico and Díaz Montero and the Italian Guarniere But the most important visitor arrived a year later when none other than King Alfonso reviewed the staff of the training batallion and toured the hangars and other offices of the aerodrome He then admired an exhibition of Bristol seaplanes as they carried out a demonstration bombardment of Isla Perdiguera Another visit was made in July 26 by the Duke of Tetuán (the Minister of War) and Honorio Cornejo (Minister for the Navy) and the base continued to contribute to the activity in the town with the annual December celebrations of the Virgen de Loreto (patron of aviators) a team from Los Alcázares took part in an air show in Getafe (Madrid) in June 1927 but the peak of the base’s Prestige was reached in the years following 1929 when in June an attempt was made to set a new world record by reaching New York in 6 days This daring endeavour was undertaken by Ramón Franco – the brother of the future dictator Francisco Franco – and pilots Gallarza and Ruíz de Alda on board a seaplane At this time the facilities included an airfield measuring 1000 x 600 metres mooring ramps and many others including barracks Following the Civil War of 1936-39 the role played by military seaplanes diminished rapidly and these days the facilities are used mainly as accommodation overflow for the Air Force Officers Academy in San Javier The last flight here was in 2015 during the celebrations of the centenary of hydro-aviation in Spain but this was just a brief reminder of days gone by Nowadays guided visits are frequently organized at the base, proving a popular and fascinating addition to the attractions of Los Alcázares all year round, and opposite the main entrance is the local Aeronautical History Museum Sign up for the Spanish News Today Editors Roundup Weekly Bulletin and get an email with all the week’s news straight to your inbox (List price   3  months 12 Bulletins)  THE seaside town of Los Alcázares has just welcomed a fresh spot for locals and visitors : the J & G Cocktail Family Bar this new bar offers an inviting atmosphere for anyone looking to unwind with a quality drink Owners Jannine and Gary have crafted an impressive menu and guests can expect a friendly atmosphere to accompany each carefully prepared drink Local councillor Pedro José Sánchez joined the opening wishing Jannine and Gary the best of luck and thanking them for choosing Los Alcázares for their new venture J & G Cocktail Family Bar promises lively events making it a hub for social gatherings in town and be part of the buzz at this new family-friendly spot Read more top tips and recommendations here The Town Hall of Los Alcázares has announced the outline of the schedule for the annual Fiestas de las Incursiones Berberiscas which take place in the second half of Easter Week and provide an entertaining alternative to the Semana Santa processions which are held at this time of year in almost all other parts of the Region of Murcia Although the fiestas are an occasion for celebration and revelry and have been existence only since the start of the present millennium their roots lie mainly in the 16th and 17th centuries when Berbers from north Africa launched frequent pirate raids on the coastline of Murcia This part of Spain was under constant threat and the population was reluctant to settle near the coast due to the instability in the area Defence existed only in the shape of the watchtowers which can still be seen in many parts of the Murcia coast (for example, the Torre de Rame in Los Alcázares) but these served only to warn the population of the imminent arrival of the next raid and were insufficient to deter the attackers from their pillaging and looting the atmosphere of the fiestas is one of joy and partying as Los Alcázares welcomes the spring with a series of entertainments a medieval market and of course plenty to eat and drink According to Councillor José Carlos Castejón last year’s fiestas attracted a total of 150,000 visitors to the town over their 4-day duration and in 2025 the programme will run along similar lines April 17-20: The medieval market will be larger than ever this year with over 200 stands and stalls running for around 1.5 kilometres alongside the rambla in the town Thursday April 17: The ceremonial lighting of the flame of the fiestas Friday April 18: The arrival and disembarkation of the Berbers on the beach Saturday April 19: The medieval tourney and the grand parade Sunday April 20 (Easter Sunday): The medieval tourney concludes and the “Lanzamiento de Caldero” takes place: a bizarre event in which the winner is the person who can throw the pot used to make the dish “caldero” the furthest At the same time there will be countless live music events throughout the four days including performances by Muchachito Bombo Infierno The full program will be posted here when it is finalized and made available LOS Alcázares hosted the 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝗽𝗮ñ𝗮 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗿 (Spain Windsurfing Championship) the weekend of April 5-6 featuring Olympic athletes and world champions attracting over 80 participants from countries like Finland with sails filling the skies above the Mar Menor to create an impressive show This championship is part of the ‘Siente el Mar Menor’ (Feel the Mar Menor) programme organised by the Murcia Sailing Federation in Los Alcázares Get Ready for the Next ‘Siente el Mar Menor’ Event The Funboard Spanish Championship is coming to Los Alcázares from April 25 to 27 Events like the ‘Siente el Mar Menor’ championships are a big boost for Los Alcázares helping local businesses and bringing in visitors With people coming from all over the world The event also shows off the area’s beautiful coastline and great facilities encouraging more people to visit in the future It’s a fantastic way to make Los Alcázares known as a top spot for water sports and outdoor fun A free event is being held to help local residents get practical advice and learn who to contact in an emergency the event will take place at Casa Club Camposol on Wednesday You will hear from well-known local charities These groups can give you helpful information about what to do in an emergency and how they can support you Whether you need advice about health problems The aim is to help you feel more prepared and know who to reach out to when you need help the most so you can enjoy some refreshments while you learn and ask any questions you may have call Ian on 711 041 772 or email ian@whitedoves.es Don’t miss this chance to get clear advice and meet the local groups that are here to help UNEMPLOYMENT in Cartagena continued to fall in March with numbers improving slightly ahead of the seasonal hiring expected for Easter 13,167 people were registered as unemployed a bit better than the regional average for Murcia and in line with the national trend Cartagena has 462 fewer unemployed people compared to March last year Local employment councillor Álvaro Valdés pointed out that this is a promising sign especially since last year’s Easter hiring wave took place in March while this year’s data doesn’t yet reflect Easter job gains The services sector saw the biggest improvement Social Security registrations also increased and the number of self-employed workers rose to over 11,100 THE XV Triatlón Sprint Marina de las Salinas took place in the stunning setting of La Llana beach, the Mediterranean marinas, and the Salinas y Arenales Regional Park, in San Pedro del Pinatar drawing over 270 competitors from across the Murcia region and beyond The event kicked off with a 750-metre swim in La Llana beach Next came a 20-kilometre bike ride through the park and Avenida del Puerto before finishing with a 5-kilometre run that passed by both marinas: Dársena Marina de las Salinas and Puerto Deportivo Villa de San Pedro Organised by the 30 7 40 Sports Club and supported by the Department of Sports this event also marked the beginning of the Regional Triathlon League by the Federation of Triathlon of the Region of Murcia Bartomeu Crespi was the first to cross the finish line in 54 minutes and 58 seconds followed by Bienvenido Ballester (55:34) and Alejandro López (55:56) Inés Fernández took the win with a time of 1 hour ahead of Laura Durán (1:05:19) and Victoria Castiñeiras (1:06:29) participants from other regions like Andalucía SAN PEDRO DEL PINATAR has been awarded Blue Trails recognition for three of its scenic routes a prestigious environmental and sustainability honour from the Association for Environmental Education and Consumers (ADEAC) These awards highlight the town’s natural beauty and commitment to preserving its landscapes The ‘Senda de los Tarays’ is a 3.2-kilometre route that starts at the Las Salinas Visitor Centre and follows the canal surrounding the salt flats It’s known for its tamarisk trees and reeds both of which thrive in the salty environment The ‘Caminando entre Molinos Salineros’ trail offers a mix of nature and history It passes by two early 20th-century salt mills that once helped transfer water from the Mar Menor to the salt ponds The ‘De lo Urbano a lo Natural’ route begins at the Lo Pagán seafront promenade and heads towards the Quintín Mill and the Puerto Avenue reaching the Flamingo Roundabout near the Regional Park The awards were presented by Carmen Conesa This recognition not only celebrates the area’s stunning landscapes but also boosts its appeal to both locals and visitors throughout the year New Restaurant Joins Los Narejos Food Scene LOS NAREJOS is adding to its growing food scene with the opening of Oasis Fusión a new restaurant on Boulevard Oasis in Los Narejos This exciting spot offers a mix of barbecue meats and international dishes giving locals and visitors plenty of tasty choices Oasis Fusión is the latest venture by Ely Rivera who also runs the popular Mexican restaurant Mr.Taxo from Swedish-style sirloin to Indian Chana Masala There are also vegetarian options and dishes like Chili Paneer along with charcuterie platters and crème brûlée for dessert Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy entrecôte with gratin potatoes or a vegetarian dish recently visited the restaurant to thank Ely Rivera for opening his new business in Los Narejos and wished him success with his new venture you can book a table by calling 623 237 232 Oasis Fusión is the latest addition to the growing restaurant scene Website#a9ae1edba66a06b4c3fa3123{display:none} Among the myriad of attractions at the 2025 Fiestas de las Incursiones Berberiscas in Los Alcázares are three free midnight concerts which will be held at the main fairground venue just north of the town centre The music begins on Thursday April 17 with a performance by Maxims Orquesta Show and the following night it’s rumba time with the appearance of Muchachito Bombo Infierno The program ends with the performance of La Mundial on Saturday April 19 The main parade of the 2025 Carnival celebrations in Los Alcázares takes place on Saturday March 22 but in order to enable all ages and groups of the community to enjoy the vibrant colour the town council has once again scheduled various events in the 10 days prior to that date The schedule for the 2025 Carnival celebrations in Los Alcázares includes the following: 16.00: A Carnival party for the third age at the Centro de Mayores ‘Adolfo López’ 17.00 to 20.00: Children’s Carnival parade beginning in Avenida de la Constitución in Los Narejos bouncy castles and candy floss as well as a photocall All youngsters are invited to come along wearing their favourite costume 10.30: Canine Carnival for dog owners and their pets organized by the Patitas Unidas group in the Plaza del Espejo Events include a canine parade and a doggy costume competition 16.00: The grand Carnival parade begins in Carril de Las Palmeras with the participation of some 1.600 people belonging to 35 groups (8 more than in 2024!) The route follows Avenida de la Libertad to the Town Hall Prizes for the best parade troupes will be awarded in Plaza Manuel Floreal Menárguez Official magazine of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) Isabel Rubio strolls along Los Alcázares beach a sandy expanse facing the Mar Menor in southeastern Spain The sun bathes the area in a golden light and the air is tinged with the crisp scent of salt slips off her shoes and wades into the cold waters she describes how this shallow saltwater lagoon has long been a source of healing for her her tired bones haven’t been her main concern as she wanders within the vast expanse of salt flats separated from the Mediterranean by a thin strip of land It’s the health of her beloved lagoon that’s at the forefront of her mind Rubio and a group of concerned locals are the co-founders of Pacto por el Mar Menor a grassroots initiative to raise awareness of the lagoon’s severe environmental decline staged protests and travelled to the European Parliament multiple times all with one steadfast mission: saving their lagoon the campaigners have managed to secure significant victories such as establishing legal rights for the lagoon and the creation of regulatory bodies with real teeth and there have been numerous failures in this rich but fragile ecosystem in recent years the Mar Menor is Europe’s largest coastal saltwater lagoon crystal-clear shallows and the region’s year-round temperate climate have long attracted tourists and retirees this idyllic ecosystem has come under severe threat with a number of crises pushing it to the brink of collapse.  Environmental degradation in the Mar Menor isn’t a recent phenomenon; multiple issues have afflicted the lagoon for decades The matter first drew notice in the regional media back in 1985 when a local journalist highlighted the rapid spread of urban development in the area and raised concerns about the possible consequences for the lagoon.  Rapid and largely unregulated agricultural intensification also occurred in the neighbouring Campo de Cartagena family-run farms practising dry-land farming and catering to local markets the area grew into an agricultural powerhouse after a new canal brought irrigation water from the Tagus – the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula – in 1979 Campo de Cartagena produces more than 2.5 million tonnes of fruit and vegetables annually The shift from traditional crops such as carob olives and almonds to extensive monocultures of lettuce lemons and artichokes introduced a steady flow of nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilisers which seeped into the Mar Menor through runoff dug wells to tap into the aquifers and set up hundreds of desalination plants to make the brackish water of the Mar Menor usable for irrigation Many of these plants dumped nutrient-rich brine into the channels draining into the lagoon A boom in tourism also compounded the pressure on the lagoon ‘The Mar Menor has endured this kind of pressure for decades,’ explains Francisca Giménez Casalduero a marine ecologist at the University of Murcia and the Mar Menor has reached its breaking point.’ The spring of 2016 saw extensive algal blooms caused by the lagoon filling up with nutrients The algae blanketed the lagoon’s surface with sprawling mats stretching for kilometres turning the water green and blocking sunlight from reaching the bottom masses of fish and crustaceans washed ashore Rubio vividly remembers the horrors of the aftermath: ‘It was the most awful sight I’ve ever seen – a disaster,’ she recalls ‘The crabs scrambled to escape through the rocks the eels leapt and the water churned as if it was boiling.’ Two more crises struck in the following years another major die-off led to more than three tonnes of fish and crustaceans being stranded on the shores of San Pedro del Pinatar the lagoon experienced its most significant disaster yet with around five tonnes of fish washing up on the shores of La Manga the narrow sandbar that divides the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean Sea.  blame and responsibility have become contentious issues The local government attributed the fish deaths in the Mar Menor to natural causes such as hot weather and associated rising water temperatures scientists vehemently contested these assertions presenting compelling evidence that water quality degradation from local farming practices was the primary driver Studies indicate that agricultural activities in the Mar Menor watershed contribute to up to 85 per cent of nutrient inputs which accounts for nearly ten per cent of the region’s GDP and supports 47,000 jobs holds considerable sway over Murcia’s economy and political landscape close ties between governmental bodies and the farming industry have shaped policies favouring agricultural expansion and turned a blind eye to the environmental consequences Politicians have also consistently downplayed the Mar Menor contamination suggesting impractical remedies such as diverting large amounts of the lagoon’s water to the Mediterranean Sea Farmers in the area have also long baulked at shouldering the blame ‘We are being singled out for practices of 40 or 50 years ago when regulations were lax and authorities focused on meeting Europe’s high demand,’ insists Vicente Carrión stressing that growers these days carefully use only the fertilisers they need He also argues that pollution in the Mar Menor comes not just from farm runoff but also from an aquifer polluted by toxins from historical mining activities and urban waste But Julio Mas, former director of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography dismisses the aquifer arguments as misleading ‘The majority of nutrients entering the lagoon come from surface water streams originating in agricultural land particularly during periods of heavy rainfall,’ he explains ‘Only about 25 per cent of these nutrients come from the aquifer.’ Mas estimates that an average of five tonnes of nitrates have flowed into the lagoon daily until recently totalling 4,500–5,000 tonnes annually from both surface and underground discharges it’s only recently that local authorities have begun taking steps to restore and protect the Mar Menor These measures either address the consequences of pollution such as organising clean-ups to remove algae from the lagoon or directly target the sources of pollution promoting the planting of hedges as natural barriers and adopting contour farming practices cracking down on the region’s estimated 12,000 hectares of illegally irrigated land and the creation of a 1,500-metre-wide green belt around the lagoon’s perimeter as a buffer zone The enforcement of these measures has posed an added financial strain on farmers who argue they haven’t received adequate support from the authorities celery and pumpkins on his 15-hectare farm reckons that measures such as hedge planting cost him up to £2,500 per year ‘I’m only hoping the authorities can chip in to cover these extra costs.’ Findings from a Spanish Institute of Oceanography report suggest a recent reduction in nutrient levels about 1.7 tonnes of nitrates per day were entering the lagoon down from previous levels that reached up to six tonnes per day the report warns against viewing this stabilisation as a definitive indicator of overall ecosystem improvement it suggests that the lagoon’s internal regulatory mechanisms and self-regulating capacity may be contributing factors to these observed changes and people might be returning to the beach but the sources of pollution are still there,’ says Giménez Casalduero ‘Acute episodes can be triggered at any time,’ she warns the Mar Menor has become the first ecosystem in Europe to be designated with legal rights similar to those of an individual person The notion has long been debated but has only gained traction over the past decade during which ecosystems such as Colombia’s Atrato River and New Zealand’s Whanganui River were granted the status.  Much of the credit behind the achievement goes to Teresa Vicente a professor of the philosophy of law at the University of Murcia Vicente was on a three-month fellowship at the University of Reading studying how other countries have legally protected natural resources when one of her students from Murcia called up to inform her about the situation unfolding in the Mar Menor started gathering the signatures needed to take it to parliament Vicente penned an article for a local paper She rallied support from communities along the riverbanks who were furious about the pollution right in their backyard Vicente had amassed more than 600,000 signatures well beyond what was needed to present the bill meetings with government representatives and media interviews followed until in September 2022 Spain’s senate passed it into law And while the lagoon may not be able to speak for itself Vicente says any citizen is now able to file a lawsuit on behalf of Mar Menor.  She sees the initiative as a model for other European regions grappling with similar challenges ‘This is more than just about saving a lagoon,’ she says understanding that ecosystems have their own value and rights.’ Rubio remains cautiously optimistic about the future reflecting on all that has been lost and all that remains to be fought for ‘The lagoon’s path to recovery will be long and challenging but we owe it to ourselves and future generations to keep pushing forward.’ Filed Under: Science & Environment Click Here for SUBSCRIPTION details Want to access Geographical on your tablet or smartphone Android or PC/Mac image below to download the app for your device Copyright © 2025 · Site by Syon Media Over the weekend of 25th to 27th April anyone in Los Alcázares will be able to enjoy a fiesta of typical Spanish music restaurants and other leisure establishments of the town as it celebrates its “Olé Fest” an April fiesta in honour of everything that is Spanish During the three days local bars and restaurants will be decked out with all the regalia of the Spring Fairs of which the most famous is held every year in Sevilla and bars will be serving the typical Andalusian “rubijito” wine cocktail along with a selection of typical tapas On Saturday 26th April the hub of the events will be Avenida Río Nalón where there will be live entertainment between 17.00 and 19.00 while on Sunday the music continues in Boulevard Oasis at 13.00 Los Alcázares kicked off the holiday season with a fun and chilly Christmas swim recently with more than 300 daring swimmers taking the plunge into the Mar Menor Many of them wore Santa hats for the annual event which was organised by the Animal group at Paseo Carrión bringing together locals and visitors for a festive tradition Among the swimmers were some holiday characters everyone warmed up with towels from Animal and enjoyed a delicious caldo con pelotas (meatball soup) waiting for them by the shore bringing the community together for a fun and memorable experience The Town hall gave a shout-out to the organisers for making it happen year after year A new season of the “intermezzo” music cycle in Los Alcázares begins on February 23 in the full meeting room of the Town Hall raising the curtain on a series of seven free concerts ending in October of this year In previous years the chamber music cycle has proved an undoubted success with the hall fully occupied according to councillor Antonio López Campoy and the new season begins with a performance by the “Aires de Zarzuela” group paying homage to the rich tradition of Spanish light opera The guest artist is Carlos Casanova from Valencia one of the most talented musicians of his generation who is equally adept on both the French and German variations of the clarinet who also performs on the violin in this event The group is completed by Cristina Carp (also on violin) Lesster Mejias (viola) and Bernat Tortosa (cello) The concert at the Town Hall begins at 20.00 and all are welcome but the advice is to arrive in plenty of time to avoid disappointment coinciding with austerity which marks Holy Week and Easter in the rest of the Region of Murcia the town of Los Alcázares on the shore of the Mar Menor embarks on a few days of fiestas to commemorate the dark days in the history of the area when Berbers from north Africa launched frequent pirate raids on the coastline of Murcia The celebrations go by the name of the “Fiesta de las Incursiones Berberiscas” and takes locals and visitors back to the 16th when this part of Spain was under constant threat and the population was reluctant to settle near the coast due to the instability in the area Defence existed only in the shape of the watchtowers which can still be seen in many parts of the Murcia coast (Click here for a lengthier account of the history of Los Alcázares.) One of these towers, the Torre de Rame where it sits in the rather more tranquil surroundings of the La Serena golf course and residential area that the Berber threat finally diminished and cattle farmers brought their animals to the pasture land nearer the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor but even then the terror brought by pirates such as Morato Arráez remained firmly ingrained in the minds of the locals the festivities of the Incursiones Berberiscos were held for the first time although that first edition consisted of little more than a medieval market at which the nieighbouring town of Torre Pacheco brought their “Trinitarios y Berberiscos” groups to stage a parade but the following year the Town Hall of Los Alcázares organized its own processions and the fiestas have grown in importance ever since In some ways the fiestas have come to represent the end of winter in Los Alcázares signalling the first arrivals at the beaches of the Mar Menor prior to the busy summer tourist season and in the absence of Semana Santa processions in this part of Murcia this is an entertaining colourful and extremely popular alternative: after all it’s hard to deny the appeal of the tapas route a huge range of entertainments for all ages and plenty to eat and drink All beaches in Los Alcázares are on the shore of the Mar Menor and offer safe bathing conditions clean and well groomed sand and attractive settings The Playa de la Concha is the southernmost in the municipality and extends 400 metres from the former seaplane base to Calle José de Fontes Of all of the beaches in Los Alcázares this is probably the least crowded coarser and greyer than some of the other beaches and partly because it's on the edge of the urban area but it's still busy as it is the focal point for a number of sporting activities Part of the reason for this is that it is actually possible to drive a car down to the edge of the beach to one of the launch ramps with parking including three disabled bays but due to the high volume of traffic during the summer it is advisable to park several streets back and walk the last few metres and again this is an ideal starting point for these events because it marks the beginning of the long seafront walk which runs alongside the beaches of the municipality The paved promenade stretches all the way to Playa de las Salinas 7 kilometres away The mild year-round climate in this part of Spain the shallow waters and the prevailing winds in the Mar Menor make the area a mecca for all types of water sports and activities Separated from the Mediterranean by the 22-kilometre strip of La Manga it is only 7 metres deep in the centre and the shallow fringes and lack of tide and waves make it safe for families with young children as well as attractive for novices in sports such as canoeing The Club Náutico (sailing club) of Los Alcázares is located at Playa de la Concha so there are usually plenty of activiteis here.  Access from the promenade to the sand is very easy and showers specially adapted changing areas and disabled toilets are available There is also the facility to rent both sunbeds and umbrellas lifeguards and first aid and even amphibious bathing chairs during the peak summer months Bars and restaurants are only a short distance away In the summer of 2019 this beach was nominated by the Town Hall of Los Alcázares as a "no smoking" beach but bathers and other beachgoers are urged to refrain from lighting up on the sand not only for health reasons but also in order to prevent discarded butts from remaining on the beach and then contributing to marine pollution.  Safety precautions at Mar Menor beaches Most of the Mar Menor beaches have very gently sloping shelves meaning that bathers can walk a considerable distance from the shore and still only be waist high in the water heating up more than the deeper water and the Mediterranean Many beaches are also protected by netting to exclude jellyfish. This creates safe bathing areas for families but there is also a danger as the calm water means that many elderly bathers bathe alone but every year there are unnecessary fatalities when bathers suffer heart attacks slipping into the water without anyone else being aware The transition from hot beach to cold water can shock the body so it is advisable to splash the body with water to cool down before wading out Click here for an overview of all the beaches in Los Alcázares Easter Week in Los Alcázares is celebrated not with solemn religious evening processions but, perhaps as befits the youngest municipality in the Region of Murcia, with an outburst of partying and parades during the Fiestas de las Incursiones Berberiscas (the fiestas of the Berber pirate raids) One of the highlights of this 4-day event is the medieval market which grows larger each year as success breeds success and in 2025 will occupy as much as 1.5 kilometres of the streets in the town centre Over 200 stalls and stands will line Calle Los Luisos and the area around it while among them there will be a host of wandering minstrels street entertainers and costumed characters representing figures from the Middle Ages including none other than King Alfonso X “El Sabio” who conquered Murcia from the Moors way back in the 13th century and although some of the items on offer might not be exactly medieval the atmosphere certainly is with the streets covered in straw and all of the stalls shaded by awnings Car parking for those visiting from outside Los Alcázares is available at various points along Avenida 13 de Octubre and on Calle Jaén alongside the fairground which is being set up for the duration of the fiestas It has been a long time since Los Alcázares faced such a contentious issue The Council’s recent decision to shut down ‘El Chinguirito,’ which had been operating without a permit since 1991 the Council maintains that legal compliance was the decisive factor in closing an establishment that has been a cornerstone of the municipality’s tourism and social scene we received a report suggesting that some kiosks might be operating illegally Nine kiosks had been in business even before the promenade was completed fully aware that they needed to regularize their situation with regard to permits This was not just a legal matter but also a question of safety and ensuring proper guarantees for users,” explained Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera who has faced a challenging week dealing with the fallout we have held regular discussions on this issue We informed the owners that if they had alternative proposals we were open to considering them,” he added the Council believes that the management of ‘El Chinguirito’ did not fully anticipate closure as a real possibility When bidding processes for the kiosks were announced “That was when the administrative complaints began which the judge ultimately denied,” said the mayor “They were warned informally,” he explained combining disappointment with an understanding of legal necessity and that’s why we have approached this issue with sensitivity There is sorrow because ‘El Chinguirito’ is a historic venue we must ensure that all businesses have equal opportunities to operate in the area would have liked it to remain open,” the mayor admitted “Establishments like ‘El Chinguirito’ endured the worst of the pandemic and played a crucial role in revitalizing the social and economic fabric of Los Alcázares Now that the Mar Menor is experiencing a resurgence in tourism and social well-being another business will eventually take its place These families have significantly contributed to the area’s growth the law does not account for such sentimental or historical factors Cartagena is currently undergoing a similar bidding process,” he said Log in to leave a comment © 2021 The Leader Digital Los Alcázares is on the brink of reclaiming its historic role as a key hub for Spanish hydro aviation Just a few formalities remain before the town can officially welcome seaplanes back into its skies — and waters — once again The municipality will proudly host the SPLASH-IN seaplane festival reaffirming its ties to a rich aeronautical heritage all that stands in the way of operational status is a final permit “There are very few seaplanes in Spain — only in Mallorca and the Canary Islands “Becoming active again would position us as a national benchmark and open new avenues for tourism and economic growth Our vision includes establishing both a seaplane school and a maintenance centre here in Los Alcázares.” Sánchez also addressed environmental concerns seaplanes don’t require major infrastructure when comparing the footprint of seaplanes to airports seaplanes are common for inter-island transport — and that’s something we can develop here too.” The SPLASH-IN festival will spotlight this potential six seaplanes have confirmed their attendance: three from Spain “We expect to announce more participants soon,” Sánchez noted during the festival’s recent official presentation specialized firefighting seaplanes from the Spanish Air Force will take part alongside two notable models — the Donisilestar and the Tuaila Note — which will perform thrilling aerial demonstrations “SPLASH-IN is more than just a festival — it’s a celebration of our aeronautical legacy,” said Los Alcázares Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera “Our town was home to Spain’s first seaplane base and this event connects us with that proud past.” While the full schedule for SPLASH-IN 2025 is still under wraps one highlight has already been revealed: the Schneider ‘SIGLO XXI’ Cup This aerial contest challenges pilots to navigate a course using only manual skills — no GPS just traditional tools and pure flying prowess Over the weekend of April 4 to 6 the C.A.R Infanta Cristina in Los Narejos (Los Alcázares) is hosting the Spanish Windsurfing Championshop an event which has attracted top names in the sport including the Spaniards Iván Pastor Curro Manchón and Anto Domínguez Around 100 windsurfers are taking part in a total of 9 events beginning at 15.00 on Friday 4th April with the weigh-ins the best surfers in Spain take to the water of the Mar Menor and spectators are of course welcome to watch from the seafront over the rest of the weekend The international Open category has attracted entrants from as far afield as Finland The Town Hall of Los Alcázares is celebrating Valentines Day in style this year with a series of activities and events on February 14 and 15 under the slogan of “Vive el Amor en Cada Rincón” (Live Love in Every Corner) Among them are romantic rides on the tourist train of Los Alcázares, setting out on both the Friday and the Saturday at around sunset (19.00) from the Town Hall and visiting some of the prettiest places in the municipality. Bookings for this “poetic and musical experience” will be open from February 11 online here there is a romantic cheese tasting at the Hotel Atrio del Mar where participants can delight in a selection of special tastes and the intimate surroundings Registration for this activity opens on February 18 a special local shopping promotion named “Los Alcázares te enamora” is taking place from February 7 to 15 with purchases at local stores entitling shoppers to take part in a prize draw for various romantic dinners for two and on Saturday February 15 a major event is being held to celebrate the most romantic weekend of the year The least strenuous Valentines special is the installation of three special sofas on the seafront alongside the Mar Menor in the Plaza del Espejo and next to the A Estribor beach bar/restaurant in Los Narejos where lovers of all ages can take special photos and take part in a photocall event Another option is the Wishing Well which has been installed on Avenida 13 de Octubre at the junction with Avenida Joaquín Blume and on Avenida Río Nalón in Los Narejos: here passers-by can deposit their romantic hopes for the future in the hope that Cupid will grant their wishes Further information can be found at the Town Hall website here Few visitors to Los Alcázares will have failed to notice that the town is packed with examples of urban art mural paintings and in fact this is one of the aspects of the built-up area which the Town Hall actively promotes encouraging the creation of new works which adorn the area rather than merely disfiguring it as simpler graffiti does the tourist office is holding one of tis regular evening “safari” tours on Saturday 29th March starting at 19.00 in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and lasting into the hours of darkness Participants are advised to bring along a torch (or make sure that the one on their mobile phone is working!) to see some of the details which are often missed and which will be pointed out by the tour guide along the way Registration is free of charge and is available online here this event has been postponed from Saturday March 8 to the following Saturday Patrick’s Day from March 15 to 17 with lots of fun events Participating bars and restaurants will be offering scratch cards with over 150 free beers and dinner vouchers worth €50 up for grabs shared that these scratch cards will give customers a chance to win these great prizes while enjoying the festivities These performances will add to the fun and make the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Los Alcázares even better San Patrick Los Alcázares is sure to be a highlight of the month THE Age Concern Spring Artisan Fair is happening on Saturday from 11:00am to 3:00pm at Mariano’s on Calle Madrid Visitors can browse a variety of arts and crafts stalls It’s a great chance to pick up unique gifts and support a good cause at the same time a local charity that supports people over 50 and a friendly space at their Social Centre in Camposol (Sector C and dignity for older people in the community If you’d like more information or to book a stall, contact Sarah Standland at 0034 602 637 842 or email sparkle.eventsbysarah@gmail.com GET ready for an afternoon of great live music as one of Europe’s top Tina Turner tribute acts comes to La Sal in Puerto de Mazarrón Whether you’re a huge fan or just love live music Big tribute acts are now making regular stops in Mazarrón bringing top-quality live shows right to your doorstep This is a great chance to enjoy a fantastic performance without traveling far so book early to make sure you don’t miss out for a great performance by the talented Piano Man this family-run bar invites everyone to join in for a great time filled with music and a good atmosphere and every weekend it turns up the volume with a mix of Northern Soul and classic Motown tunes they’re happy to play any kind of music to get you singing along or tapping your feet Whether you’re a regular or it’s your first time Perlita’s promises a relaxed setting where everyone’s welcome or just come solo and soak in the music with a cold drink in hand CARTAGENA is bringing food lovers together with a festival packed with local flavours and live music. The Cartagena Destino Gastronómico fair takes place on March 22 and 23 at the city’s port Organised by the Cartagena Tourism Department the event highlights the city’s growing reputation as a food destination ‘We want to show off Cartagena’s incredible food scene and the quality of our local restaurants,’ said Tourism Councillor Beatriz Sánchez Visitors can try traditional dishes like marinera (a crunchy breadstick topped with Russian salad and anchovy) The famous asiático coffee and locally produced Meseguera wine will also be on offer The festival runs from 12:00pm to midnight on Saturday and until 5:00pm on Sunday There will be two live concerts on Saturday featuring Stolen and Los Vecinos del Cuarto Sunday will have a more relaxed atmosphere with background music this fair is a perfect way to enjoy Cartagena’s rich culinary culture THE Conservatorio de Música de San Javier (San Javier Music Conservatory) is bringing back its popular concert series This series gives students the chance to experience what it’s like to perform as a professional solo musician The launch event was attended by María José Bernal and Conservatory Director Francisco Javier Martínez the series will feature performances across a variety of instruments The Conservatory’s jazz orchestra will also join in will take place at venues like San Javier’s Teatro de Invierno (Winter Theatre) David Moreno explained that the series aims to help students improve their performance skills by playing in front of an audience Francisco Javier Martínez added that the event is part of the Conservatory’s plan to take students’ talents from the classroom to the stage María José Bernal invited the public to come and enjoy the performances which provide a valuable cultural experience for both the students and the audience rental prices across the Murcia region continued to surge with the Mar Menor region leading the charge A recent report from Idealista shows that the average cost of renting a home has risen by 8.7% over the past year to €8.3 per square meter—just 4.6% below the historical maximum recorded in August 2024 Municipalities such as Los Alcázares and San Pedro del Pinatar are experiencing the most dramatic increases Los Alcázares has seen rental prices climb by 15% while San Pedro del Pinatar is registering an impressive 23.3% jump with rates reaching €8.7 per square meter—barely below the record set in December 2024 La Manga remains the most expensive area to rent and the city of Murcia has also experienced a notable rise with average rents now at €8.8 per square meter following a 7.8% increase and Torre Pacheco now commands slightly higher rates at €8.1 per square meter after an 8% increase over the past year while San Javier stays comparatively affordable at €7.1 per square meter with a modest 4.8% rise The escalating rental prices are taking a toll on household budgets Idealista’s analysis reveals that the effort rate for purchasing a home—defined as the percentage of household income allocated to buying property—has risen to 23% in the fourth quarter of 2024 is that the rental effort rate has surged to 36% in the same period three percentage points higher than last year and well above the recommended limit of one-third of household income the effort required in the sales market has increased more modestly from 22% to 23% making it 13 percentage points less burdensome than renting These rising costs come at a time when the region is facing a significant housing shortage According to the National Statistics Institute (INE) around 246,000 new households are expected to be created each year until 2039—a total increase of nearly 3.7 million households This imbalance between supply and soaring demand is leaving many families unable to afford home ownership and forcing them into an already pressured rental market LOS Alcázares, once hit hard by floods, has now become a top choice for real estate investors in Murcia In less than five years, the town has turned things around. After the severe storms of 2019, which caused widespread flooding, there was a downturn. Now, it’s the most sought-after spot in Murcia for renting homes, as reported by Idealista They currently list 80 rental properties—60 apartments and 20 villas—with each property attracting an average of 36 interested renters Rental prices range from €350 to €2,500 per month This rise is due to high city rents pushing families to find more affordable partly because of limited availability and stricter rental conditions Local attractions like quality of life, sunny beaches, and good amenities are also drawing people. With interest from both international expats and young Spanish families, Los Alcázares is showing resilience and promise in the real estate market on the Costa Cálida For more Costa Calida news and events click here This Sunday October 6 at 5.42pm, the emergency services were called to a beach in Los Narejos, Los Alcázares after an elderly gentleman came out of the water vomiting At the time it was believed that he had swallowed a significant amount of water An ambulance from the Civil Protection service of Los Alcázares was dispatched to the scene alongside a mobile emergency unit from the 061 Emergency and Urgent Care Department After attempting to revive the gentleman who had lost consciousness at 6.05pm the medical staff sadly confirmed that the man had died For more local information, news and what's on visit the homepage of Los Alcázares Today The Department of Celebrations of the Los Alcázares City Council has announced that the Great Carnival Parade 2025 will take place on Saturday All local and foreign comparsas and dance groups that want to participate and enjoy this great carnival event need to register by Monday Prizes will be awarded to the best local and foreign groups More information form the municipal website at: https://losalcazares.es/ The Dino Expo XXL exhibition is open every evening until the end of July next to the Centro de Seguridad in Los Alcázares (click for map) giving children (and adults) a chance to see life-size models of some of the most impressive of the dinosaurs who roamed the Earth until their extinction approximately 65,000 years ago Tickets are priced at 10 euros for adults and 8 euros for those aged 12 and under and are available online here For more upcoming events in the Region of Murcia go to the What’s on section of Murcia Today