Spanish towns host free summer verbena festivals in Chiclana and Marbella

The city of Chiclana will stage a free open‑air performance of the zarzuela La Verbena de la Paloma on Saturday, 8 August, at the Plaza Mayor. The event marks the 150th anniversary of the 1876 decree by King Alfonso XII that granted Chiclana city status. About one hundred artists – including singer Rosa Doval, pianist Manuel González Butrón and the local opera friends association – will perform without ticketing, backed by the Fundación Cajasol and local sponsors.

In the neighbouring province, the Leganitos neighbourhood of Marbella will hold its traditional verbena on Friday, 7 August, and Saturday, 8 August, in Plaza José Antonio Pérez Cervera. The two‑night street party, supported by the municipal council and the Hermandad de la Amargura, will feature live orchestra music, dancing, bouncy castles for children and the crowning of a queen and ladies‑in‑waiting. Proceeds from the bar will fund community projects for 2027 and preparations for the Holy Week procession. Both festivals are free, open to residents and visitors, and celebrate local cultural heritage.