Residents of Madrid and visitors to the capital have a unique opportunity this year: from April 15 to May 3, a major Galician seafood fair will take place in Alcobendas. Organizers promise the freshest catch from O Grove, affordable prices, and a rich cultural program. Admission is free, making the event especially attractive for families and groups of friends.
The fair will be held at Recinto Ferial, Avda. Valdelaparra, 12. The official opening is on April 16 at 20:00, when journalist María Cheda will give a welcoming speech. For nearly three weeks, visitors can sample dishes from eight gastronomic pavilions, where kilograms of fresh seafood will be prepared daily, delivered straight from Galician ports.
Menu and prices
The fair’s main highlight is the wide variety of seafood delicacies: octopus, crabs, lobsters, mussels, velvet crabs, scallops, and clams. All products come directly from O Grove auctions, ensuring maximum freshness. In addition to classic boiled dishes, grilled and baked options will be available, as well as seafood rice. For those who enjoy traditional cuisine, Galician empanadas, homemade cheeses, and fresh bread will be served. The wine list features popular varieties such as albariño, godello, and ribeiro.
Organizers intend to keep dish prices accessible for most visitors. This approach allows guests to try several options without straining their budget. According to russpain.com, such events in the region always draw crowds, especially in spring when people seek out new flavors and experiences.
Opening hours
The fair will be open daily from 13:00 to 16:00 for lunch and from 19:00 to 22:30 for dinner. On weekends, the pavilions stay open until midnight, and sometimes even until 1 a.m. It’s important to note that the kitchen is closed between lunch and dinner—the organizers emphasize that chefs need time to prepare fresh dishes. It’s best to plan your visit in advance to avoid closed doors.
Admission is free, which is especially convenient for families with children and large groups. There’s a separate area for kids with an inflatable castle and entertainment. Adults can enjoy not only the culinary offerings but also a rich cultural program.
Cultural Program
Alongside the food, guests can enjoy performances by folk groups, exhibitions dedicated to art and fishing, and traditional Galician dances. Special attention should be paid to April 25 and 26—these days will feature the XXII Encuentro de gaitas y bailes tradicionales gallegos. This event brings together musicians and dancers from all over Galicia, turning the fair into an authentic Galician fiesta with live music and a festive atmosphere.
The organizers—Xuntanza de Galegos association, supported by Demar Degustación—focus on authenticity and a family-friendly format. For many Madrid residents, this is a chance to experience Galician culture and cuisine without a long trip north.
Practical Tips
Before visiting, it is recommended to check the pavilion schedules to avoid arriving during staff shift changes. Families with children should visit during the day when the kids’ area is open. Folk culture enthusiasts are advised to plan their trip for late April to catch musical performances. Keep in mind that while entry is free, dishes are paid for separately, though prices remain lower than in restaurants.
The seafood fair in Alcobendas is more than just a gastronomic event—it’s a true spring celebration for Madrid residents. Visitors can sample fresh catches, immerse themselves in Galician traditions, listen to live music, and spend quality time with family or friends.
Seafood fairs with free entry and fresh products from O Grove have become increasingly popular in Spain in recent years. Such events are held regularly across various regions, drawing thousands of visitors. In 2025, a similar fair in Valencia attracted a record number of attendees and earned high marks for both dish quality and organization. These gatherings help promote regional cuisine and strengthen cultural ties between different autonomous communities.
