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The cosmopolitan city of Barcelona takes inspiration from all corners of the world, so it should come as no surprise that many of its biggest celebrations actually originate from other parts of Spain. With a large Andalusian population, this top Mediterranean destination has taken on some of southern Spain’s most notable traditions and added a dash of Catalan charm to make them its own.

One such custom is the annual Feria de Abril, also known as the April Fair, which originated (and is still massively popular) in Seville. From April 26th to May 2nd this year, the Parc del Fòrum in the Diagonal Mar district in Barcelona will come to life as colorful costumes, Flamenco dancers, traditional Spanish paella and a giant funfair take centre stage in this beachside town.

A festival for all!

The Feria de Abril in Barcelona has two main areas. The first is a fairground with rides for kids of all ages, including a giant Ferris wheel. This zone also has plenty of market stalls offering the very best in traditional trinkets alongside fair-style vans serving delicious delicacies making for an all-round Andalusian experience in Barcelona, ideal for families visiting Barcelona.

The second area of this Barcelona festival is filled with around 70 marquees called “casetas” where you can enjoy some traditional Flamenco dancing by the costumed “Sevillanas”, as well as free music, food and drinks, all native to Seville.

Colourful costumes

This celebration of Southern Spain makes for a very enjoyable time and that is before we even discuss the amazing attire! This is one of those festivals where people like to go all out on their costumes and appearance. That is why we think you should know how you can look the part when visiting the Feria de Abril in Barcelona this year. Women usually wear the ´faralaes´, a colourful dress that you would see most flamenco dancers wearing! As for men, you would have to find a traditional ´traje de corto´, a short jacket, with fitted trousers and some nice shoes or boots. These items are easily found online and in a host of traditional dressers dotted around Barcelona, such as Mercedes Mestre, who make beautiful and handcrafted dressers for that unique and high quality finish.

How to Get to the Feria de Abril in Barcelona

The Parc del Fòrum is easily accessible by the Barcelona Metro, which will be extending its operation hours for the event. The nearest Metro station to the Feria is the Maresme/Forum on L4.

Admission to the fair is free to the public, and as one of the most vivid and colorful festivals in Barcelona, La Feria de Abril should not be missed if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the Catalan capital during April and May!

Where to stay for the Feria de Abril

As this event is anticipated yearly from people in Spain and other parts of the world, it causes many people to book accommodation a long time in advance. This causes the majority of places to get booked up, leaving only expensive places left to reserve. Luckily enough, AB Apartment Barcelona are there to help! With over 500 apartments located near the event, at Parc del Fòrum, and elsewhere, you will find your ideal apartment here. From couples, to family and friends, whoever you plan on going to the Feria de Abril with, have a memorable stay with AB.