Chipiona kicks off the first spring fair of both Cádiz and all of Andalusia
As Holy Week wraps up, the feria season in the province of Cádiz bursts to life almost immediately. With spring in full bloom, the final weeks of April carry a festive air across the region. It’s a time for celebration, music, and dancing in the streets of towns and villages, as well as an opportunity to enjoy the rich local gastronomy that takes centre stage during these traditional festivals.
The 2025 feria calendar begins with the Feria del Moscatel in Chipiona, which also holds the honour of being the first spring fair in all of Andalusia. This year, it runs from Wednesday, 23 April to Sunday, 27 April. The final feria of the season in Cádiz will take place in Arcos de la Frontera, from 24 to 29 September. But for now, here’s a guide to the fairs you won’t want to miss in the last days of April and early May.
Feria del Moscatel – Chipiona (23–27 April)
The festivities begin with the traditional alumbrado – the ceremonial switching on of the lights – at 21:30 on Wednesday. This is followed by a concert by Maribel Gutiérrez at 22:00 in the Auditorio Parque Blas Infante, and later, Jorge Pineda takes the stage at 23:00. On Thursday, Mangüara performs at 22:00. The weekend features performances by La Barbería del Sur and Raya, both on Friday and Saturday nights at 23:00.
On Sunday, 27 April, visitors can enjoy a horse and carriage parade through the fairground from 12:00 to 14:00. That afternoon, a Sevillanas dance contest will be held at 17:00, with on-site registration open from 16:00.
Feria de Vejer de la Frontera (30 April–4 May)
Vejer de la Frontera launches its Spring Fair at the end of April, running from 30 April to 4 May. The programme features Sevillanas contests, equestrian exhibitions, sports events, and live music and concerts, all of which bring a festive atmosphere to this picturesque hilltop town. Vejer’s feria is a highlight on the regional calendar, known for its unique charm and lively community spirit.
Feria de la Cruz de Mayo – Espera (30 April–4 May)
Also running from 30 April to 4 May is the Cruz de Mayo Fair in Espera, located in the Sierra de Cádiz. It marks the first of the spring fairs in the mountains and features traditional casetas serving up local specialities like fried fish and regional wines. Expect live concerts, sports competitions, and bull-related events, making this a classic Andalusian-style fair with a rural twist.
Feria de Castellar de la Frontera (30 April–4 May)
Spring’s biggest celebration in Castellar de la Frontera also takes place during this period. As the first feria of the Campo de Gibraltar region, it includes parades, folk dances, family-friendly amusements, and competitions. The highlight of the fair is the traditional Romería del Santo Cristo de la Almoraima, a religious procession held on the Sunday of the feria.
Tuna Fair – Barbate (30 April–4 May)
One of the most distinctive and gastronomically focused events in the province is the Tuna Fair in Barbate, taking place within the town’s 17th Annual Bluefin Tuna Gastronomic Week. The fairgrounds are located near the Puerto de la Albufera, and the event runs from 30 April to 4 May. Leading up to it, from 23 April, the Ruta del Atún kicks off across 35 local venues, where visitors can enjoy gourmet tapas made with almadraba bluefin tuna for just €5, including a drink.