St Patrick's Day on 17 March is always a big celebration on the Costa del Sol, and this year is no different with many towns holding special parties to mark the day.

Torremolinos

Torremolinos is celebrating with a big party in the Plaza de la Nogalera, organised by the Irish Association of Spain following the mass in Arroyo de la Miel (see below).

In charge of the proceedings will be Tony Bell, chairman of the association, and this year the Shevlin Twins, holders of four world titles for Celtic dancing, will be returning. Other dancers, singers and musicians will be entertaining the crowds throughout the day.

Ireland's famous brew, Guinness, will be available and a variety of drinks and snacks will be served.

Every year the best fancy dress is given a prize. Information can be found on the town hall website (www.torremolinos.es) or on the Irish Association Spain's Facebook page.

Benalmádena

The events in Torremolinos will be preceded by a special mass in the Inmaculada Concepción church, next to the train station in Arroyo de la Miel at noon. This was due to be followed by a procession to the fairground at La Paloma park but the weather forecast means these plans have been cancelled and attendees are encouraged to head to Torremolinos instead.

Marbella

Marbella's celebrations will extend across the weekend with a series of activities planned on Saturday and Sunday in Constitution Park from 12 to 11.30pm.

Entertainment will be provided by The Stolen Gnomes, Bua, Stereo 80, Whiskey in the Car, Thrifty Malone's, Ciaran Farrell, Colm Fitzpatrick and Sean Murray. There will also be traditional Celtic dancing.

What's more, the Marbella arch will be lit up in green.

Malaga

Every year a mass in Spanish and English is held at 11am on 17 March at the San Patricio church in the Huelin district of the city. The choir Schola Gregoriana Malacitana will be performing St Patrick's hymn among other pieces.

Fuengirola

For the younger ones who wish to get involved, Miramar shopping centre is hosting a series of St Patrick's Day celebrations. The centre will be illuminated in green today, Friday, and on Saturday will host facepainting, fancy dress competitions and a parade for children (the latter at 6.30pm) and Irish beer tasting for the adults.

Fuengirola has two Irish pubs, Pogs and O'Reilly's, which will also join in the festivities.