The April Fair is one of the most emblematic celebrations in Spain. It is held in Sevilla and for a week it combines tradition, flamenco and, of course! -, tobacco. In this article, we tell you all the secrets of this Sevillian event.
From May 6 to 11 this year, the city gave itself completely to its most important festival. All its community and institutions paused for six consecutive days to enjoy one of its greatest traditions.
Officially inaugurated on Monday, May 5, the festival began with the “alumbrao” (local name) of the front of the Real de la Feria and the “pescaíto” (local name) dinner, a tradition that consists of enjoying fried fish in company.
Upon entering the fairgrounds, the event has a strong historical significance: you can see carriages, decorated horses and “casetas” (camping house) decorated in detail. But the most striking thing, without a doubt, is the costumes: women wear flamenco dresses or elegant dresses, while men usually wear suits, combining style and tradition.
As far as gastronomy is concerned, the “casetas” are an obligatory stop. Managed by families, associations or groups of friends, they offer typical dishes, as well as the famous “rebujito”, a refreshing mixture of manzanilla wine and lemon-lime soda. The atmosphere varies according to the caseta, but they all share the same spirit of celebration and have become the soul of the fair.
Of course, we cannot forget about tobacco. At the Feria, smoking is common both in the street and inside the booths. Many people carry a cigarrillo or habano in their hand, almost as a complement to the traditional attire. The act of lighting it, tasting it and sharing it is perceived as a ritual.
And this detail is no coincidence, as Seville has a long tobacco tradition! Not far from the Fair is the historic Real Fábrica de Tabacos de Sevilla, today home to the University of Seville. Founded in the 18th century, it was the first tobacco factory in Europe and, since then, tobacco has been part of the cultural fabric of the city.
If you go to this festivity, our recommendation is that you enjoy the experience combining a cold rebujito with the mini cubano of your choice. We opt for Montecristo Short, a match that, added to the good company and the atmosphere of celebration, will make your visit to this event a unique experience.
The Feria de Abril is not just a party. It is a cultural event in which tradition, elegance and history coexist in perfect harmony. Whether riding in a carriage, dancing flamenco or enjoy a Cuban mini cigar among friends, this experience will remain engraved in your memory as one of Spain’s great cultural treasures.
