Few cities in the world can boast a permanent, exclusive space for holding their fair. Albacete certainly does. The Fairgrounds are much more than a meeting place: they are a symbol, a tradition, and the pride of an entire city.
The Albacete Fair, declared of International Tourist Interest, is held every year from the 7th to 17th of September in honour of the Virgin of Los Llanos, its patron saint. Its origins date back to 1710, when Charles V granted the privilege of holding a livestock fair, which over the centuries has evolved to become one of the most important festivals in Spain.
The heart of this celebration is the Fairgrounds, a unique, massive building made up of several concentric rings that house booths, stalls, exhibitions, and festive activities. Popularly known as “La Sartén” (The Frying Pan) due to its shape, it is unique in Spain for being used as the venue for its Fair. Its civil architecture, monumental gates, and cheerful atmosphere make it a must-see, even outside of the festive season. The main entrance is through Puerta de Hierros (Iron Gate), a majestic entrance that leads into the fairgrounds, offering a monumental and festive atmosphere.
In the centre of the grounds stands the Fair Pavilion, built in 1912 in the Modernist style. It replaced an old wooden pavilion and a cattle pond. Nowadays, it is one of the most iconic symbols of the Fairgrounds and a regular how spot for both locals and visitors.
Nearby, the Albacete Bullring, “La Chata,” stands out as one of the most prestigious in Spain. Its design inspired the construction of the current Madrid bullring.
In Albacete, the fair never ends, it simply awaits your return.
