Algeciras Fair: The Complete Guide to the Real Feria

The Algeciras Fair, known as the Feria Real de Algeciras, is the biggest festival in the Campo de Gibraltar and one of the most outstanding celebrations in Andalusia. Declared a National Tourist Interest of Andalusia, this fair transforms the city at the end of June with marquees, rides, bullfighting festivities, and an atmosphere full of joy. Divided into the Parque Feria Antonio Quintero, with areas for marquees and rides, the Algeciras Fair attracts thousands of local and regional visitors. If you know nothing about this festival or are planning to visit, this guide explains everything you need to enjoy it to the fullest.

To find out the specific dates and events for this year, please consult the official website of Algeciras Town Council.

Marquees in the Parque Feria during the Algeciras Fair
Decorated marquees in the Parque Feria Antonio Quintero, the heart of the Real Feria.

What is the Algeciras Fair?

The Feria Real de Algeciras is an annual celebration that combines tradition, culture, and fun. For approximately one week at the end of June, the city fills with music, dancing, gastronomy, and events that reflect the hospitality of the Campo de Gibraltar. The Parque Feria Antonio Quintero, near the district of Las Colinas, is divided into two areas: one with marquees for eating, drinking, and dancing, and another with rides for all ages. The Plaza de Toros Las Palomas, in the centre of the grounds, hosts renowned bullfighting events.

Since its origin as a livestock fair in 1850, the Algeciras Fair has evolved into a modern event that attracts visitors from all over the province of Cádiz and beyond, becoming a meeting point for the region.

Key Facts about the Algeciras Fair

  • When: At the end of June, generally for one week (please consult the official website (here) for the exact dates for ).
  • Where: Parque Feria Antonio Quintero, district of Las Colinas, Algeciras, Spain.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 days, starting with a parade and fireworks.
  • Entry: Free access to the fairground; most marquees are open to the public.

Historia de la Feria de Algeciras

La Feria Real de Algeciras comenzó en junio de 1850 como una feria ganadera, un evento común en Andalucía para el comercio de ganado. En sus inicios, incluía carreras de caballos, exhibiciones de ganado del Campo de Gibraltar, conciertos, y puestos de comida y utensilios. Su popularidad atrajo a tantas personas que se formó un poblado temporal alrededor del recinto, con una plaza de toros provisional.

En 1969, la feria se trasladó al actual Parque Feria Antonio Quintero, cerca de la barriada de Las Colinas, entre la carretera de Málaga y la circunvalación. Ese mismo año se construyó la moderna Plaza de Toros Las Palomas, que sigue siendo un ícono del recinto. Con el tiempo, las casetas y atracciones se integraron al entorno urbano, dando forma a la feria tal como la conocemos hoy.

Hoy, la Feria de Algeciras es un evento de Interés Turístico Nacional de Andalucía, con una mezcla de tradiciones ganaderas, festejos taurinos, y celebraciones modernas que reflejan el espíritu acogedor de la ciudad.

Plaza de Toros Las Palomas en la Feria de Algeciras
Plaza de Toros Las Palomas, epicentro de los festejos taurinos en la Feria Real.

What to Do at the Algeciras Fair?

The Algeciras Real Fair offers activities for all audiences, from traditional events to modern and inclusive options. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

1. Enjoy the Casetas

The casetas are the heart of the fair, located in the lower part of the Parque Feria. Adorned with lanterns and garlands, they offer food, drink, and music, ranging from sevillanas and flamenco to pop. Most are open to the public, making them more accessible than at other fairs, such as Seville’s. The Sunday of Sevillanas is a highlight for dancing, and Women’s Day (Wednesday) celebrates female participation with special events.

2. Experience the Attractions

In the upper part of the fairground, you’ll find an amusement park with Ferris wheels, roller coasters, carousels, and games for children and adults. Children’s Day (Monday) offers 50% discounts on the “cacharritos” (rides). Additionally, there are noise-free days (Monday to Wednesday, from 18:00 to 22:00) for people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or auditory sensitivities, a pioneering inclusive initiative.

Attractions at the Parque Feria during the Algeciras Fair
Illuminated attractions at the Real Fair, perfect for families.

3. Join the Parade and Opening Speech

The fair kicks off with an announcing parade on Saturday, featuring floats, music bands, and thousands of sweets, travelling along Avenida Virgen del Carmen to the fairground. The previous Friday, the opening speech at Parque María Cristina, followed by the coronation of the children’s and youth queens, marks the official start.

4. Explore the Livestock Fair

The Livestock Fair, which gave rise to the festival in 1850, remains a cornerstone. It opens at the Las Palomas Bullring with an exhibition of select Retinta cattle, organised with the Andalusian Regional Government. It’s a chance to discover Algeciras’ agricultural roots.

5. Enjoy the Bullfighting Events

The Las Palomas Bullring hosts bullfights featuring renowned breeders (such as Miura or Fuente Ymbro) and prominent bullfighters. In 2025, three bullfights and one non-picador novillada are scheduled from 25 to 28 June. The Algeciras Bullfighting Talks beforehand bring together experts for discussions and lectures.

6. Savour the Cuisine

Food is a key attraction. At casetas and stalls, you can enjoy:

  • Montaditos: Small sandwiches with ham, pork, or seafood.
  • Rice and seafood dishes: Typical of the Campo de Gibraltar.
  • Rebujito: A refreshing drink made with manzanilla wine and soda.
  • Churros and candyfloss: Classic fairground sweets.

7. Other Highlights

  • Horse parade: Organised by the El Caballo and El Estribo equestrian clubs, with riders in traditional attire.
  • Rociera Mass: A religious celebration at the Corpus Christi Church.
  • Children’s activities: Workshops and events at the Municipal Caseta.
  • Puerto Bahía de Algeciras Popular Race: A sporting event attracting local runners.
  • Fireworks: The fair closes on the final Saturday with a display at the Bullring.

Tips for Enjoying the Algeciras Fair Like a Local

  1. Dress for the occasion: Although not obligatory, flamenco dresses or the 'traje corto' (short jacket and trousers for men) add a festive touch. Comfort is key for walking around the fairground.
  2. Visit on the key days: Domingo por Sevillanas (Sunday for Sevillanas), Día de la Mujer (Women's Day, Wednesday), and Día del Niño (Children's Day, Monday) are the liveliest.
  3. Arrive early: The marquees get crowded at night, and parking can be limited. The afternoon is ideal for families.
  4. Use public transport: Special buses (Algesa reinforces the lines during the fair) connect the centre with the Parque Feria. There is a taxi rank next to the main entrance.
  5. Bring cash: Some stalls and small marquees may not accept cards.

How to Get to the Algeciras Fair

The Real Feria is held in the Fairgrounds Antonio Quintero, in the district of Las Colinas, next to the A-7 motorway and the Plaza de Toros Las Palomas (bullring). Transport options:

  • From Malaga: Take the AP-7 motorway (1 hour 30 minutes, passing through Marbella and La Línea) or the C1 commuter train to Algeciras (2 hours from Malaga-Centro). From Algeciras station, take a taxi or local bus to the fairground.
  • From Cadiz: Via the A-48 motorway (1 hour 15 minutes) or commuter train (1 hour 30 minutes). Intercity buses from Cádiz or Jerez are also an option.
  • In Algeciras: Local buses (lines are reinforced during the fair) connect the centre with the Parque Feria. Taxis are available at the main entrance. If you drive, there are supervised car parks in Los Prados or near the fairground, but avoid peak hours due to road closures on Calle Pulsera and Avenida de la Guardia Civil.

Map of the Fairgrounds

The Fairgrounds is well connected by the A-7 motorway. Use Google Maps or a navigation app to plan your route.

Why Visit the Algeciras Fair?

The Feria Real de Algeciras is a unique celebration that combines the livestock and bullfighting tradition of the Campo de Gibraltar with Andalusian hospitality. From the marquees open to the public to the spectacular fireworks, it offers a vibrant experience for families, friends, and visitors. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the culture, gastronomy, and festive atmosphere of Algeciras.


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