From this Thursday, April 16, until April 19, Mairena del Alcor will be adorned for its traditional Feria de Abril. This 584th edition moves its usual dates forward, with April 20, known as 'Lunes de Resaca' (Hangover Monday), being a local holiday. This event holds the distinction of being the longest-running fair in all of Andalusia, with its origins documented in the mid-15th century, still within the Middle Ages.
The Feria de Abril de Mairena del Alcor has been recognized as a National Tourist Interest Festival, standing out as a fundamental pillar of the Sevillian municipality's identity. Its relevance and antiquity are supported by writings from historical figures such as Washington Irving, Estébanez Calderón, Jorge Bonsor, Marcelino Pérez Calvo, and Rogelio Marín.
Founded in 1441 by a concession from King Juan II of Castile to Juan Ponce de León, the fair was established with the aim of promoting the repopulation of the area and stimulating the local economy through trade and livestock transit. Over the centuries, and especially after the reform of 1757 which set its dates in April, it consolidated itself as the first major fair event of the year in Baja Andalucía, a crucial meeting point for traders and subsequent markets.
Although it may seem otherwise and many people are unaware of this fact, the Mairena Fair reached its peak in the 19th century, even serving as a model for the later Feria de Abril de Sevilla. Currently, it is celebrated the week before the Sevillian fair, marking the beginning of the fair season in Baja Andalucía.
Today, this Feria de Abril retains its historical character, blending tradition and coexistence. For four days, the municipality transforms with casetas (traditional marquees), music, gastronomy, and an atmosphere that brings together residents and visitors in a deeply rooted celebration. The poster for this edition is the work of local artist Pedro Castro, a proposal that, according to the author, combines tradition and creativity, reflecting the festive spirit and joy of the town.
“"A work made with oil on canvas technique. As can be seen, the main figure is a child dressed in short clothes running towards us, while playing with a wheel with small balls inside. This child represents the child we all once were and the child we still carry within."
“"We often call the Mairena Fair the mother of all fairs due to its antiquity. And like a mother watching her child play, the main entrance of the fairgrounds along with its surroundings is presented as a backdrop. It is shown in the light of a sunset, under a characteristic sky of that date, between sunny and cloudy."
