Cordoba Fair 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing the Festival Like a Local
If there’s one event you simply can’t miss in Andalusia’s festive calendar, it’s the Cordoba Fair.
Get ready to discover everything you need to know about this unforgettable celebration—when it’s happening, where to go, what to eat, and how to make the most of your time there, whether it’s your first visit or your annual tradition.
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When is the Cordoba Fair 2025?
The official name is the Feria de Nuestra Señora de la Salud, and in 2025, it will take place from May 24th to May 31st, always during the last full week of May. During these days, Córdoba transforms into a spectacular display of lights, music, dancing, and pure joy.
Where is the fair held?
Though many associate it with the historic city center, the fairgrounds are actually located at El Arenal, right by the Guadalquivir River. This area fills with colorful tents (called casetas), carnival rides, food stalls, live music stages, and everything needed for an entire city to shift into party mode.
✅Local tip: Avoid driving if possible. Public transportation or walking is highly recommended—parking near the fair is no easy task.
What makes the Cordoba Fair so special?
Unlike other Andalusian fairs like Seville’s, most of Cordoba’s casetas are open to the public. That means you don’t need an invitation or any connections to walk in, dance some sevillanas, sip on a fino wine, or enjoy an authentic salmorejo that’ll blow your mind.
The Casetas: The Heart of the Fair
There are over 100 casetas, many run by neighborhood associations or cultural groups. They offer live music, traditional food, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to spend hours just soaking it all in. Some even host flamenco shows, competitions, or family-friendly activities.
The Lighting Ceremony: The Magic Begins with the Lights
The fair officially kicks off with the lighting of the main gate, a stunning light structure that changes every year. This emotional and symbolic moment usually happens at sunset on the opening Saturday.
What to Eat and Drink at the Fair
Forget about your diet—Cordoba’s culinary scene is a highlight of the fair experience. Some must-try local favorites include:
- 🍅 Salmorejo (a cold tomato-garlic soup topped with egg and ham)
- 🐟 Flamenquines (ham-stuffed fried rolls) and oxtail stew
- 🍢Spiced skewers and local tapas
- 🍷 Fino wine from Montilla-Moriles
- 🍹Rebujito (a refreshing mix of sherry and lemon soda)
Pro tip: Many casetas offer budget-friendly menus. Don’t be shy—ask about daily specials!
💃What to Wear to the Fair
You don’t have to dress up, but many people wear traditional flamenco outfits to immerse themselves in the festive spirit. Men often wear polka dot shirts or guayaberas, and women wear ruffled flamenco dresses with flowers in their hair and bold accessories. At the very least, wear light, breathable clothes—and comfortable shoes for dancing!
👨👩👧👦 Is the Cordoba Fair Family-Friendly?
Absolutely. The Cordoba Fair welcomes everyone:
- 👧 Kids: carnival rides, kid-friendly casetas, magic shows
- 👴 Older people: flamenco performances, seated concerts, quieter spaces
- 👩❤️👨 Couples and groups of friends: late-night parties, tapas and drinks, live DJs
- 🤘 Culture lovers: equestrian shows, folk dancing, artisan food
There are even specific hours for people with reduced mobility or sensory sensitivities, with adapted spaces and quiet times.
Why Cordoba Fair 2025 Will Be Unmissable
This year is expected to see record-breaking attendance, thanks to the boom in domestic tourism and the return of international visitors. The city council has also announced improvements to transportation, accessibility, and cultural programming, including high-profile performers and more public services.