The Feria de Abril, translated as the April Fair, is a traditional festival celebrated annually in the city of Seville, in southern Spain. It is one of the most famous fairs in Spain and one of the most important cultural events in Andalusia. The Feria de Abril is known for its festive atmosphere, casetas (decorated tents), music, dance, traditional costumes, and rich culture.
The fair generally begins two weeks after the Semana Santa, or Easter Holy Week.
The fair officially begins at midnight on Saturday, and runs seven days, ending on the following Saturday. Each day the fiesta begins with the parade of carriages and riders, at midday, carrying Seville’s leading citizens which make their way to the bullring, La Real Maestranza, where the bullfighters and breeders meet.
In 2023, Seville Fair is scheduled between 23 t0 29 April.
Origins and History
The Feria de Abril has its origins in the celebration of an annual livestock fair dating back to the 19th century. The first livestock fair was held in 1847 in the Prado de San Sebastián area, and over time it evolved into a commercial and leisure fair that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Traditions and Features: The Feria de Abril is held in a special area known as the Real de la Feria, which consists of a series of streets and avenues adorned with colorful lanterns, garlands, and flags. The casetas (tents) are one of the most characteristic elements of the fair, which are temporary structures decorated with flowers, mantones de Manila (embroidered shawls), and other typical elements of Andalusian culture. The casetas are owned by individuals, families, companies, or organizations, and are used to hold gatherings, meals, dances, and other social events.
The traditional costume is another important element of the Feria de Abril. Women wear the traje de flamenca, which is a typical dress of Andalusia with frills, vibrant colors, and accessories such as flowers in the hair and shawls. Men wear trajes de corto, which are typical outfits of Andalusian horse riders with jackets, short trousers, and boots.
Flamenco is an integral part of the Feria de Abril, with flamenco music and dance that can be enjoyed in the casetas, as well as on stages and squares in the Real de la Feria. In addition, there are activities such as fairground rides, traditional food stalls, contests, and sports events that complement the celebration.
Cultural and Touristic Importance
The Feria de Abril is a culturally and touristically significant event for Seville, Andalusia, and Spain as a whole. It attracts thousands of visitors every year, both domestic and international, who come to experience the unique atmosphere, traditions, and culture of the fair. The Feria de Abril is not only a celebration of Sevillian and Andalusian identity, but also a showcase of Spanish culture and heritage, making it a major tourist attraction in the region.