The Cordoba Fair

The Córdoba Fair is one of the most outstanding and eagerly awaited events in the festive calendar of Andalusia, in southern Spain. With a history dating back to the 13th century, this fair is a celebration that combines tradition, culture and fun in a festive and joyful atmosphere. During the last week of May, the city is transformed into a vibrant stage where locals and visitors from all over the world gather to enjoy music, dance, gastronomy and the warm and welcoming spirit of Andalusian culture.

The Cordoba Fair has its roots in the ancient livestock fair that was held in the city in the 13th century. Back then, the fair was a meeting point for the region’s merchants and farmers, who came together to exchange products and livestock. Over the centuries, the fair evolved into a popular celebration that encompasses different aspects of Cordovan culture and traditions.

The Cordoba Fair is held in May, in honour of Our Lady of Health. For a week, the Cordoba fairgrounds, known as “El Arenal” become the epicentre of the fiesta. The fairground is decked out with numerous stalls decorated with flowers, lanterns and typical elements of Andalusian culture, creating an enchanting and festive atmosphere.

The Fair begins with the traditional lighting of the lights, on the night of Friday to Saturday, at 00:00 hours, a spectacle of lights and fireworks that marks the beginning of the festivities. From then on, the fairgrounds come alive with stalls offering music, dancing, food and drink. The casetas are the heart of the fair, where visitors can enjoy flamenco music, dance sevillanas, sample the local gastronomy and socialise with friends and family.

The Fair offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes and ages. There are flamenco competitions, open-air concerts, equestrian shows and exhibitions of traditional dances. Horse and carriage rides are an iconic image of the fair, where riders wear traditional costumes and ride through the streets of the fairgrounds with elegance and pride. It is also common to see many of the attendees dressed in flamenco costume.

If you like rides and attractions, you can also enjoy a wide range of them. They are located on what is known as “Hell Street”. Among them, the traditional Ferris wheel stands out above all, offering a panoramic view of the city, but you can also find others such as carousels, roller coasters, etc. Some of them are a classic every year, but every season new ones are added. There are all kinds and for all tastes, both for children and adults. In the Calle del Infierno there are also tombolas and fast food stalls, such as hamburgers, ice cream and sweets.

Gastronomy occupies a prominent place at the Cordoba Fair. The casetas offer a wide variety of typical dishes from the region, such as salmorejo, oxtail and flamenquín, accompanied by wines. In addition, you can’t miss the rebujito, a refreshing drink based on fine wine and lemon which is the perfect accompaniment for dancing and enjoying the fiesta.

The Cordoba Fair is also known for its friendly, family atmosphere. It is common to see people of all ages enjoying the festival together, from the youngest to the oldest. The fair is a perfect opportunity to get together with loved ones.

The Cordoba Fair is much more than just a party. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Andalusian culture, get to know the traditions of Cordoba and experience the contagious joy of its people. Music, dance and gastronomy combine to create a unique experience that showcases the best of Cordoba’s identity.

It is important to note that the Cordoba Fair has adapted and evolved over time, preserving its traditional essence but opening up to new forms of expression and entertainment. Modern elements have been incorporated, such as current music concerts, to attract a more diverse public and broaden the cultural offer of the fair.

In conclusion, the Cordoba Fair is an emblematic festival that combines tradition, culture and fun in a festive and welcoming atmosphere. For a week, the city is filled with joy, music, dance and delicious flavours. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Andalusian culture, enjoy the hospitality of Cordoba and create unforgettable memories. If you have the opportunity to visit Cordoba during the Feria, you will be immersed in a magical encounter of tradition and joy that will leave a lasting impression and the desire to return year after year.