The Magic of Seville's April Fair

The April Fair has become one of the most colorful celebrations in Spain and the chance for Sevilla continue conquering the world with his passion of Andalusia. The Fair officially starts with the "lighting" of the site, but for many the party has already started since the end of the assembly of about 1000 booths that fill the room. The funny thing is that the show install a kind of "parallel city" on the grounds of the Real de la Feria, a space-time where past and present come together and revive ancient traditions. Outside its boundaries, Sevilla continues his daily grind.

The fair focuses on the stands since its inception in 1847, when the noble families of Seville planted his and became a show of cattle and horses at a social event. The booths are run by families, groups of friends or groups, which Spain's other call lares rocks, for example. Booths are also bars and restaurants of the city, corporate and institutional booths open to everyone, but it's not exactly the same. Becoming a member is not easy. For very into the show that are not members of any, the search for an outlet, as is known here at the invitation or pass to enter a booth, part of the spirit of the holiday.

For 7 days and nights, the Fair occupies the whole of daily life for many Seville and visitors. The serious side, so to speak, takes place during the morning and noon, with the parade or ride. Either somebody will be considered fair by horse or carriage, and in any case, with typical Andalusian dress, of course. Over time it has become a celebrity tour, also international character since Anthony Quinn became famous outside Spain

The extremely serious part takes place at 5 pm, with the bullfight in the Maestranza, and it is after the run when the crowd returned to Real for the real fun begins Andalusia. Booths are supposed to close at 4 am, but many continue to hold until the next day with the help of a good chocolate with churros. For those who live intensely Fair is a frenetic week of fine, flamenco, tapas, fun and very little sleep.

The first days are the best to visit the fair, when the environment is still relatively "quiet" and Seville are together as a family. The last three days, which coincide with the weekend, and something can be overwhelming. In any case, the April Fair is one of those celebrations that will eventually become real popular events and a must if you are in Andalusia at that time. Remember to book in advance your stay, because hotels in Seville typically have very high occupancy levels during the Fair.

For those who love the spirit and therefore Andalusian sherry, flamenco and horses, regardless of the order of your preferences, the April Fair is an experience to be lived.