Feria de Jerez also known as the Feria del Caballo or Horse Fair, is one of Spain’s most colorful and joyful celebrations. Held in Jerez de la Frontera, experience a week-long festival full of equestrian culture, horses, traditional dress, food, and dancing coming up in May 2026.
What is the fiera de jerez?
Feria de Jerez is the "Festival of the Horses" and a celebration of the Andalusian horse—a proud and graceful breed known for its beauty and strength. Every day during the fair, the city becomes a living stage for these animals. Riders parade through the fairgrounds in traditional attire, carriages roll by, and families stop to admire the horses up close. It’s not just a show—it’s a living tradition that’s still going strong.
You’ll see:
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Horse Parades through the fairgrounds (Paseo de Caballos).
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Riders in short jackets and wide-brimmed hats.
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Women in Flamenco dresses riding sidesaddle and Children waving from Carriages.
A Bit of History: Where It All Began
The Feria dates back to Medieval Times, originally started as a Livestock Trading Fair. Farmers from across the region would gather in Jerez to show off, sell, or swap their animals—especially horses.
Over the years, the trading turned into celebrating, and by the 20th century, the event had grown into the colorful festival we see today. But through all the fun, the horse has always remained center stage.
When and Where does it happen?
The Feria de Jerez will take place in Early to Mid-May, just after the famous Seville fair. In 2026, it’s expected to run for one full week, starting on a Saturday night with a Grand Lighting Ceremony called the Alumbrado.
The event is held at Parque González Hontoria, a huge fairground in Jerez. During the fair, the park transforms into a small village, full of Casetas (colorful tents) where people eat, dance, and relax.
Everything is well-organized and easy to walk through, just follow the sound of music and the clatter of hooves!
The Horse Parades and jerez's Equestrian Charm
Get to experience the royal love for the horses which is the elegance and joy of Feria. Here’s what you can look forward to:
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Paseo de Caballos (Horse Parade): Riders and carriages stroll through the park in full Andalusian dress.
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“How the Andalusian Horses Dance” Show: Held at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, this performance is like ballet on horseback.
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Competitions and Exhibitions: From traditional dressage (doma clásica) to carriage driving and riding skills (doma vaquera).
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Breeder’s Displays and Beauty Contests: See the best Andalusian horses in the region.
Capture the perfect moments for your camera roll at Jerez de la Frontera.
What makes the fiera so special?
There’s no party quite like an Andalusian party, and Feria de Jerez proves it every night. As the sun sets, the fair comes alive with Food, Flamenco and Late Night Fun.
Here’s what to try and do:
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Tapas Galore: Jamón ibérico, tortilla, salmorejo, grilled meats and more.
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Sherry Tasting: Jerez is the home of sherry—try a glass of fino or manzanilla
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Rebujito: A mix of sherry and lemonade, served over ice. Perfect for dancing!
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Live Flamenco & Sevillanas: Music plays in nearly every caseta. You’ll hear clapping, guitars, and spontaneous dancing all night
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Fairground Rides & Lights: A magical sight, especially for kids and families
More Than Horses: Discover the Heart of the Feria
You don’t need to know anything about horses to have a good time. Feria del Caballo is a place to eat well, dance a little, and take it all in and there’s no problem to do it a certain way.
If you're a non-equestrian person, these five fanatic things will make your Fiera de Jerez experience amazing!
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Shopping for handmade crafts, leather goods, and local fashion.
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Exploring the fairground by day, it's bright, colorful, and full of character.
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Food and drinks in public casetas (all are open throughout the week).
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Visiting Historic Spots like the Alcázar or the Cathedral of Jerez nearby.
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Taking a turn on the Ferris wheel or exploring funfair attractions with kids.
It's a relaxed, friendly event and perfect for just wandering and soaking up the atmosphere.
A Horse Celebration Like No Other
The Feria de Jerez is one of those festivals that leaves a lasting impression. It’s full of joy, tradition, color, and heart. Whether you’re coming for the horses, the food, or just the feeling of being somewhere alive and electric, you’ll find something magical here. So pack your shoes, your camera, and your essentials.
May 2026 is closer than you think, and Feria del Caballo is waiting.
