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.
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.
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.
The Algeciras Real Fair offers activities for all audiences, from traditional events to modern and inclusive options. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Food is a key attraction. At casetas and stalls, you can enjoy:
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:
The Fairgrounds is well connected by the A-7 motorway. Use Google Maps or a navigation app to plan your route.
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.