1. Visit the casetas
Over 1,000 pavilions – some private, many public. This is where the eating, drinking (rebujito!) and sevillanas dancing happens until the early hours.
The Seville April Fair: Your Complete Guide to the Feria de Abril
The Seville April Fair, universally known as the Feria de Abril, is the most glamorous, colourful and quintessentially Andalucian festival in Spain. Every spring the Los Remedios district is transformed into a huge, dazzling fairground with over a thousand decorated casetas (pavilions), horse-drawn carriages, flamenco, rebujito cocktails and a massive funfair. Whether you are a first-timer or have always dreamt of experiencing it, this is the only guide you will need.
What exactly is the Seville April Fair?
A full week of non-stop celebration on the Real de la Feria: over 1,000 beautifully decorated casetas, streets lined with lanterns, horse carriages, women in stunning ruffled flamenco dresses, sevillanas dancing and the huge Calle del Infierno funfair. It began in 1846 as a livestock market and has evolved into Andalucia’s most iconic cultural event. Although called the April Fair, it sometimes falls in May to avoid clashing with Easter.
Key information at a glance
- When: One week in spring – exact dates on the official Seville City Council website
- Where: Los Remedios district, Seville
- Duration: 7 days – starts with the grand switching on of the lights (alumbrado), ends with spectacular fireworks
- Entry: The fairground is free; many casetas are private
A brief history of the Seville April Fair
Its roots go back to Roman market days. In 1846 two local businessmen set up an annual agricultural and livestock fair. By 1850 trade and entertainment were separated, the first proper casetas appeared around 1920, and in 1973 the Fair moved permanently to Los Remedios. Today it is far more than a market – it is an explosion of Andalucian joy and hospitality.
What you absolutely must do at the Seville April Fair
2. Flamenco and sevillanas
Women in vibrant ruffled dresses, men in smart suits – the dancing is constant and utterly infectious.
3. Sample classic Feria food and drink
- Pescaito frito – crispy fried fish
- Jamon iberico – hand-carved Iberian ham
- Tortillitas de camarones – delicate prawn fritters
- Rebujito – refreshing mix of manzanilla sherry and lemon soda
4. Stroll around the fairground
Horse-drawn carriages by day, the massive Calle del Infierno funfair, lantern-lit streets – soak up the atmosphere.
5. The switch-on and closing fireworks
Monday night: the Portada is illuminated by tens of thousands of bulbs. Final night: a breathtaking firework display over the Guadalquivir.
Tips to enjoy the Fair like a true Sevillano
- Dress code: flamenco dress not compulsory but hugely appreciated; otherwise smart-casual and comfortable shoes.
- Arrive early – afternoons are calmer; the crowds build after 5 pm.
- Leave the car after a few rebujitos – taxis and shuttles are plentiful.
- Bring cash – many small stalls and casetas are cash-only.
- Check the official programme published by Seville City Council.
How to get to the Seville April Fair – especially from the Costa del Sol
Only a 2-hour drive from Malaga – the perfect day trip from your sunshine holiday.
Car Hire – complete freedom
Collect at Malaga Airport and you are in Seville in just over 2 hours via the A-92 (210 km). Stop in Antequera or Ecija if you fancy. Parking on the outskirts.
Book Car Hire Malaga Airport
Private Transfer – arrive relaxed
Direct from your Costa del Sol hotel or Malaga Airport to the fairground in about 2½ hours. Ideal for groups and zero parking stress.
Book Transfer*No credit card or pre-payment needed. Book early for best prices and availability.
Other options
AVE high-speed train Malaga Maria Zambrano → Sevilla Santa Justa (2 hours), then bus or metro. Alsa coaches take around 3 hours to Plaza de Armas.
Parking tip: Free peripheral car parks + free shuttle buses during the Fair. Charco de la Pava costs approx. £7/day including shuttle (5–10 min).
Why you should experience the Seville April Fair at least once
It is not just a festival – it is total immersion in Andalucian soul. Colour, music, food, dance and the legendary warmth of the Sevillians make it an unforgettable week.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Seville April Fair
Which days are best?
Tuesday to Thursday are quieter and easier for getting into casetas. Friday, Saturday and the final Monday are the liveliest but very crowded.
What time does it start and finish each day?
Gates open around 1–2 pm, the real buzz begins after 4–5 pm. Casetas close between 4 am and 6 am; the final night goes on until dawn.
Is it family-friendly with children and pushchairs?
Very much so during the day – the funfair is brilliant for kids. After dark it becomes more adult-oriented.
What if it rains?
The Fair never stops. All casetas are covered and the albero sand surface copes well with rain. A small umbrella or poncho is enough.
One day or several days?
One full afternoon and night is fantastic, but two or three days let you see the daytime carriage parades, the nightlife and the grand finale fireworks.
Are there cash machines on site?
Yes, several (especially near the Portada), but queues are huge at night. Best to withdraw cash beforehand or bring plenty with you.
