The vibrant city of Seville is gearing up for its highly anticipated Feria de Abril, set to kick off on the night of May 5, 2025. This year, the festival will return to its traditional format, with the Seville Metro operating continuously throughout the event, ensuring easy access for festival-goers.
According to the Junta de Andalucía's Ministry of Development, the metro will run non-stop from the evening of the "pescaíto" Monday until 2:00 AM on Monday, May 12, allowing attendees to enjoy the festivities and the spectacular fireworks display that will conclude the fair on Sunday night. This year, the metro service will see a remarkable 125% increase in capacity compared to a regular week, surpassing last year's 110% increase.
In the days leading up to the fair, from May 2 to May 4, there will be a 56% increase in metro service during peak hours, accommodating the influx of visitors. During the fair week, trains will operate with both single and double configurations, running in a double circulation loop. This setup is designed to minimize waiting times to an average of just 10 minutes.
The closest metro stops to the Real de Los Remedios, where the fair takes place, are Plaza de Cuba, Parque de los Príncipes, and Blas Infante. Last year, the metro recorded over one million trips during the fair, with notable peak days including Saturday of "pescaíto" with 134,240 users, Sunday with 160,830, and Monday with 130,647 passengers.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, the Junta has issued several recommendations for attendees. Passengers are reminded to fold baby strollers inside the trains and prioritize the use of elevators when traveling with elderly individuals or small children. It is also advised to plan trips in advance and to arrive at the stations with travel tickets pre-loaded to avoid long lines.
The metro's ticketing can be managed at stations through vending machines and automated recharge kiosks, or online via the official website and mobile app. For any inquiries, the Customer Service Office is available at the Puerta Jerez station and can be reached at the toll-free number 900 927 172 or via WhatsApp at 609 402 906.
In addition to the metro, Tussam, the city's public transport service, will enhance its operations during the fair, increasing service by 45% and planning nearly 39,000 hours of service, which is nearly a 3% rise compared to last year. Tussam will maintain its usual shuttle services from Prado de San Sebastián and Charco de la Pava to the fairgrounds, as well as direct lines to the Real (5, 6, 41, C1, and C2).
This year, Tussam is introducing a special service connecting Sevilla Este to the fairgrounds, which will operate on the festive Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday starting at noon, and on other days from 7 PM. The fare for the special Tussam service from Prado to the fair is set at 1.6 euros in cash and 1.5 euros with a bus pass, while the shuttle from Charco de la Pava will be free for those who park there. From 9 PM onwards, riders must carry exact change.
The Feria de Abril, a hallmark of Seville's cultural calendar, officially begins with the "Alumbrao," a ceremonial lighting of the fairgrounds that will take place at midnight on Tuesday, May 6. The mayor of Seville will press the button to illuminate over 28,000 LED bulbs that adorn the entrance and the fairgrounds, marking the festival's official start.
This year's entrance, designed by local architect Pablo Escudero Gispert, draws inspiration from the Chilean Pavilion of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. The structure stands 50 meters wide, 40 meters high, and 5.7 meters deep, featuring a vibrant color palette of white, coral, and green, reminiscent of the original building's interior woodwork. A special nod to the centenary of Radio Sevilla is included in the design, with the station's logo prominently displayed.
Prior to the "Alumbrao," the "Noche del Pescaíto" will take place, where traditional Andalusian dishes will be served in the casetas (tents) to invited guests. Following the opening ceremony, the fair will be filled with music, dancing, and the colorful attire of flamenco dresses, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration that will last until Sunday, May 11, when a grand fireworks display over the Guadalquivir River will conclude the festivities.
For first-time attendees, local influencer Elena Gortari has shared helpful tips on social media. She emphasizes the importance of using a fair map as a phone wallpaper since mobile data and GPS can be unreliable during the event. Gortari also recommends bringing a fan to combat the heat, wearing comfortable shoes, and packing essentials like hairpins, band-aids, and cash.
As the excitement builds for the Feria de Abril 2025, both locals and visitors are eager to partake in the unique experiences and traditions that this vibrant festival has to offer. With enhanced transport options and practical advice for navigating the festivities, attendees can look forward to a memorable celebration.
