International College of Seville
www.ics-seville.org
APRIL FAIR
Every spring, the city of Seville throws a week-long party and one million people show up. The April Fair or "Feria de Abril", began as a cattle trading fair in the mid 19th Century and over the years has evolved into a Spanish spectacle of flamenco, bullfighting and fun.
The site of the April Fair is known as the "Real de la Feria" (or Royal Fair Grounds), a complete artificial city of canvas-covered tent-houses, or "casetas." Some "casetas" belong to trade associations, some to groups of friends, others to clubs or political parties.
Although "casetas" vary in size all have common attributes: all "casetas" are beautifully decorated with paper lanterns, ornately painted tables and chairs, bright striped curtains, and cheerful motifs throughout; all serve delicious typical foods and wines; and most important, all are happy places to gather with family and friends to laugh and sing and dance the night away to upbeat, foot-stomping Flamenco music.
At the Fair most women wear colorful Gypsy-inspired Flamenco dresses with flowers in their hair. Men often dress up in special Flamenco attire, as well. Many people visit the Fair Grounds at noon in order to catch the colorful horse and buggy parede in which one can easily spot famous movie stars, music performers, well-known politicians, etc., all in their best attire.
During the April Fair, the famous bullring of Seville programs bull fights with the most popular and talented matadors of the day. These bullfights generally are considered to be the best of the season.For further information:
