When spring arrives, the province of Cadiz prepares to welcome with open arms one of the most vibrant festivities of the year: the spring fairs. It is as if nature itself were joining in the celebration, heralding the start of a season full of joy and tradition.
These events, full of colour and music, become a true symbol of Andalusian joy and hospitality.
Among the numerous fairs that grace the region, five in particular stand out, each with its own charm and unique personality. These celebrations are much more than just social gatherings: they are an experience that captivates the senses and leaves an indelible impression on the hearts of those who visit.
We are going to take a brief tour of the upcoming fairs, highlighting the particularities of each one. We don’t want to miss a single detail!
The Jerez Horse Fair
The Jerez de la Frontera Horse Fair is one of the most emblematic events in the province of Cadiz. Held during the first fortnight of May, this fair is considered to be of International Tourist Interest.
The Jerez Horse Fair is an emblematic event that combines tradition, fun and the presence of purebred animals. With roots dating back to 1284 as a livestock market, it has evolved over the centuries to become an internationally famous celebration. Attractions include equestrian contests, competitions and the stalls in the González de Hontoria park, which are decorated with garlands and flowers. During this festive week, various horse-related activities are held, such as jumping and dressage competitions and exhibitions of select livestock. During the day, the park is filled with riders, horsewomen and carriages parading through the streets, while at night, the stalls offer fine wine, local produce and Sevillanas dancing. The fair also includes food and drink stalls, children’s rides, bullfighting shows, Sevillanas competitions and fireworks, completing a programme full of fun and entertainment for all attendees.
Los Barrios Fair
The Los Barrios Fair is another of the most important spring celebrations in the province of Cadiz. It is held in mid-May and is noted for its friendly, family atmosphere. During the fair, the fairground is filled with rides, food and drink stalls, and stalls where dances and live performances are organised. Visitors can enjoy activities for all ages, from a large parade to concerts and shows.
The fair seeks to preserve and celebrate the traditions and customs of the rural world, paying homage to the workers of the countryside and promoting rural culture in the local community.
The Manzanilla Fair
The Manzanilla Fair, held in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, is an annual event rooted in Andalusian tradition. For five consecutive days, from Wednesday to Sunday, the town is filled with cultural and traditional activities in honour of the manzanilla wine, produced exclusively in this town. This festival, which generally takes place in the second half of May or the first half of June, features bullfights, music, flamenco dancing and a wide range of local gastronomy. With roots going back to historical events, this fair is not only an opportunity to enjoy wine and Andalusian culture, but also to celebrate the town’s identity and heritage. It attracts visitors from far and wide who come to delight in the local hospitality, music, food and, of course, the exquisite manzanilla wine that makes Sanlúcar de Barrameda a unique destination in southern Spain.
The Fair of Puerto de Santa María
This fair is also popularly known as the Spring Fair and the Fiestas del Vino Fino, and is held to commemorate the fruits that germinate and blossom and which are so important for the production of Jerez-Xérès-Sherry wine, with designation of origin.
The Feria del Puerto de Santa María is one of the oldest fairs in the province of Cádiz and is held at the end of May. Known for its traditional atmosphere and its location by the sea, this fair attracts thousands of visitors every year. During the fair, the fairground is filled with stalls decorated with flowers and lights, where dances, concerts and activities for all ages are organised. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of local gastronomy, including fresh seafood, fried fish and wines from the region.
El Colorado Fair
The El Colorado Spring Fair is an iconic event that marks the transition from spring to summer in the region. This cultural and agricultural feast offers a unique experience, with horse shows, exhibitions of local products and historic farm machinery. As well as appreciating agriculture and livestock, visitors enjoy the festive atmosphere in the stalls, where live music and regional gastronomy create a welcoming atmosphere. The fair reserves special moments for children and senior citizens, with activities and entertainment tailored to each group. The celebration culminates with an impressive parade that leaves lasting memories in the hearts of those who attend.
Chiclana Fair
This fair, which is usually held in mid-June, is a festivity rooted in tradition and very popular in the province of Cádiz and throughout Andalusia.
With the horse parade through the Real and the lively Sevillanas dances in the “casetas”, it becomes a very popular and eagerly awaited event by the people of Chiclana. Nowadays, the Chiclana Fair is held in the Albinas Park, an extensive enclosure which is also used all year round for other events such as concerts, fairs, markets, etc.
From the elegance of the Feria del Caballo in Jerez de la Frontera to the picturesque charm of the Feria de El Colorado, each celebration offers a unique experience that celebrates the rich Andalusian culture and tradition.
Spring fairs are much more than just social events; they are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the contagious joy of life in southern Spain. Whether enjoying a glass of fresh manzanilla in Sanlúcar de Barrameda or dancing sevillanas under the starlight in Los Barrios, these celebrations offer a feast for the senses and a reminder of the true essence of Andalusian life.
