Barcelona is known for being a cosmopolitan city with many influences from around the world, and more so, from around different areas of Spain. With a large Andalusian population, it’s no wonder that Barcelona has adopted so many traditions from the south of Spain and made them its own. One of the best? La Feria de Abril, otherwise known as the April Fair.
Originating in Seville, the April Fair begins around two weeks after Easter every year. For an entire week, the inhabitants of Seville celebrate life with fantastic food, gorgeous costumes and long, sometimes all-night, fiestas.
Over the years, Barcelona has started up its own version of La Feria de Abril, complete with Flamenco dancers, bright colors, paella, and lots of partying. This year, the April Fair will begin on Friday, April 27th and last the entire week up until May 6th. Bursting with locals of all Spanish backgrounds, as well as many tourists craving a taste of the Andalusian party-scene, this festival is one not to be missed, especially if you are on a family trip to Barcelona.
Something for Everyone
The Feria itself will be composed of two different parts: one being the large fairground and all the typical treats that go with it (yes, including candy floss!). Visitors to the Catalan capital will also be able to enjoy the giant Ferris wheel and smaller rides for children. The second part of the Fair consists of a long line of marquees called “casetas” filled with the dancing “Sevillianas”, free music, and food and drink native to Seville.
This year, the April Fair will be held at the Parc del Fòrum, in the Diagonal Mar district of Barcelona, making it easily accessible for anyone wanting to take a peek. The Metro will even be extending its operating hours so that access to the Fòrum is not limited. The nearest Metro station to the Feria is the Maresme/Forum on L4. From there, it is just a short walk to the venue.
The opening times for the festival vary each day during the week. To ensure you will not miss any of the excitement, be sure to plan your trip to the fair at the following times on the following days:
Friday 27 April 2
012 – 6pm to 4am
Saturday 28 April 2012 – 10am to 4am
Sunday 29 April 2012 – 10am to 4am
Monday 30 April 2012 – 10am to 2am
Tuesday 1 May 2012 – 10am to 2am
Wednesday 2 May 2012 – 10am to 2am
Thursday 3 May 2012 – 10am to 2am
Friday 4 May 2012 – 10am to 4:15am
Saturday 5 May2012 – 10am to 4:15am
Sunday 6 May 2012 – 10am to 11pm
The April Fair is certainly one of the most spectacular events in Barcelona. Though it may be a smaller version of the real Feria de Abril in Seville, Barcelona’s bright and colorful affair offers a perfect taste of the real thing. Plus, it’s free! If you’re coming to Barcelona during the week of the April Fair, you absolutely must make your way over to the Fòrum. You could even stay in one of many Barcelona apartments near the beach and soak up that April sun, before heading out to enjoy these fantastic festivities.
