History of the Seville April Fair: Origins, Tradition and Curiosities
The Seville April Fair is one of the city’s most iconic events, attracting thousands of national and international tourists annually. With a history spanning over 175 years, this event is synonymous with colour, joy, and tradition.
Origins of the April Fair
The Seville Fair originated in 1846 when Basque entrepreneurs José María Ybarra and Narciso Bonaplata proposed to the City Council the creation of a livestock fair to boost local trade. In April 1847, the first edition was held in the Prado de San Sebastián, featuring only 19 tents and 25,000 visitors.
Over time, the fair evolved from a livestock market into a social event where Andalusian music, dance, and gastronomy took centre stage.
Evolution and consolidation
By the late 19th century, Seville’s nobility and bourgeoisie began setting up lavishly decorated tents, shaping the fair into what it is today. In 1973, the event was relocated to the Los Remedios district, where it continues to be celebrated.
Key Elements of the Fair
The Entrance Gate
Every year, the Fair begins with the lighting of its majestic entrance gate, inspired by Seville’s monuments and featuring a unique design for each edition.
The Tents
The tents, both private and public, are the heart of the Fair. Here, visitors can enjoy typical delicacies such as “pescaíto frito” (fried fish), Iberian ham, and the fair’s signature drink, rebujito.
The Horse Parade and Traditional Attire
During the day, the fairgrounds are filled with elegantly adorned horses and carriages. Men wear the short suit, while women dazzle in their colourful flamenco dresses.
The Lighting Ceremony and Fireworks
On Monday night, the traditional “noche del pescaíto” (fried fish night) serves as a prelude to the lighting ceremony. The Fair concludes on Sunday with a spectacular fireworks display over the Guadalquivir River.
Curiosities about the Seville April Fair
- A Rainy Start: The first edition in 1847 was marked by rain, but this did not prevent attendees from enjoying the event.
- Millions of Visitors: Today, the Fair welcomes around 1.5 million visitors each year.
- Exclusive Tents: Some families and associations wait years to secure a private tent.
- The Rebujito, a Recent Classic: Although now the fair’s signature drink, rebujito only became popular in the 1990s.
- Continuous Growth: From just a few thousand square metres, today the Fair covers more than 450,000 m².
Tips to Enjoy the Fair Like a Local
If you are visiting the Seville April Fair for the first time, follow these tips:
- Arrive early to enjoy the horse parade and the stunning flamenco fashion.
- Taste traditional cuisine, especially fried fish and Iberian ham.
- If you don’t have access to private tents, look for public ones, where you can still enjoy a lively atmosphere.
- Learn some Sevillanas dance moves to fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
The Seville April Fair is more than just an event; it is a celebration of Sevillian culture that captivates all who attend. If you are in Seville during these dates, immerse yourself in this unique and unforgettable experience.
