Feria De Abril

Every spring, the city of Seville comes alive with the Feria de Abril (April Fair). Held two weeks after Easter, this week-long festival in April captivates both locals and tourists with its colorful costumes, traditional music, and delicious cuisine. From the dazzling illuminations that light up the night sky to the final fireworks, the Feria de Abril is the perfect opportunity to experience a unique blend of Seville's tradition and modernity.

At midnight on the festival's first day, over 220,000 light bulbs illuminate the fairground, bathing it in a warm glow. The festival opens with "El Alumbrado," the lighting of the fairground, featuring a spectacular main gate whose design changes every year, marking the start of a week-long celebration in a grand and festive manner.

Over 1,000 striped tents, known as "Casetas," line the fairground. These are small party venues owned by families, friends, and organizations where people of all ages dance Sevillanas (a traditional folk dance from Andalusia, especially Seville), enjoy tapas, and drink chilled Fino sherry (a wine from Andalusia) or Rebujito (a cocktail made with sherry and lemon-lime soda). Inside the Casetas, there is always a lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter.

The vibrant traditional costumes of the people at the fairground are like a moving painting. The women’s colorful Flamenco dresses with polka dots and ruffles, and the men’s traditional farmer outfits or smart suits, create a spectacular sight that reflects the richness and vitality of Andalusian culture. This array of diverse costumes enhances the festival atmosphere.

Every afternoon, beautifully decorated horses and carriages parade through the fairground. The sound of horses’ hooves and jingling harnesses adds to the festive atmosphere, and combined with the riders' elegant attire, creates a scene reminiscent of the noble society of Andalusia's past.

The Feria de Abril dates back to 1847 when it began as a livestock fair. Over time, its festive aspect grew stronger than its commercial side, evolving into the cultural phenomenon we see today. For the people of Seville, the Feria is more than just entertainment; it is a valuable opportunity to celebrate their identity, honor traditions passed down from their ancestors, and strengthen community ties.

This festival also plays a vital role in passing Andalusian culture to future generations. Traditional practices, such as dancing Sevillanas and the art of making Flamenco dresses, are vividly kept alive through the Feria.

In 1980, the Feria de Abril was declared a "Fiesta of International Tourist Interest of Spain" by the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, the highest recognition given to festivals with significant international fame and tourist value.

"I had no idea what to expect before coming to the Feria, but the moment I entered a Caseta, I was drawn in by the atmosphere. A local lady kindly taught me how to dance Sevillanas and said, 'The key is to feel the music with your heart.' That night, dancing and laughing with strangers, I felt like I discovered a new side of Spain."

"The Feria is a part of my life. This year, I brought my six-year-old daughter for the first time. Seeing her eyes light up as she entered the fairground in her first Flamenco dress made me realize the importance of this tradition. The Feria is not just a festival; it is a special time to celebrate our culture, family bonds, and community connections."

"As the lights started to twinkle, I overheard a father tell his young son, 'Remember this moment. This is the heartbeat of Seville.' It was then I realized that the Feria is not just an event; it's a living part of this city's identity."

• The main gate (Portada) has a new design every year. The 2024 design is inspired by Seville's iconic Giralda tower.
• The entire fairground is illuminated by over 220,000 light bulbs, reportedly bright enough to be seen from space.
• During the week of the festival, approximately 6 million liters of beer (equivalent to 2.4 Olympic-sized swimming pools) and 50,000 kilograms of seafood (the weight of a large bus) are consumed.
• It is considered one of Spain's three major festivals, along with the "Valencia Fallas" and the "San Fermín festival" in Pamplona.

The festival is held every April, two weeks after Easter.