Last night in Seville became one of the most talked-about events of the spring: thousands of spectators gathered once again at the Maestranza arena to witness performances by the country’s leading bullfighters. For the people of Andalusia and all of Spain, this is more than just a show—it’s a part of the cultural identity that shapes public sentiment and influences the region’s tourist appeal. Every year, the Feria de Abril serves as a platform for new discoveries and unexpected twists, and this year’s program is drawing particular interest due to the lineup of participants and the live broadcast on national television.
On Friday, April 17, Alejandro Talavante, Roca Rey, and Pablo Aguado performed at the Maestranza arena, facing bulls from Domingo Hernández. The bullfight was scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m., and queues at the ticket offices started early in the morning: tickets were completely sold out, and the traditional ‘no hay billetes’ sign hung at the entrance. Last night was memorable for the audience thanks to a vibrant performance by Morante de la Puebla, who nearly earned the highest award but missed with the sword. The judges’ decision denied him passage through the Puerta del Príncipe, sparking lively debates on social media and among experts.
Broadcast and schedule
This year, special attention is being paid to broadcast accessibility: Canal Sur and One Toro are providing live coverage not only on television but also through their apps, allowing even those who can’t make it to the arena to follow the events. This approach expands the audience and makes Feria de Abril a prominent event not just for locals, but for the entire country. According to russpain.com, interest in bullfighting has been steadily growing in recent years, despite ongoing debates and protests from some groups.
As part of Feria de Abril 2026, performances have already featured Pepe Moral, Lama de Góngora, Fabio Jiménez, as well as Álvaro Lorenzo, Rafael Serna, and Molina. Each day brings new emotions and unexpected outcomes, and the schedule through the end of April promises even more highlights. In the coming days, spectators can look forward to events featuring Manuel Escribano, Borja Jiménez, Andy Cartagena, Lea Vicens, Guillermo Hermoso de Mendoza, and other well-known names. On Saturday, a mano a mano between Escribano and Jiménez will take place, and on Sunday — the traditional corrida de rejones.
Regional significance
Feria de Abril has long been an integral part of Seville’s and Andalusia’s cultural calendar. The Maestranza arena, which seats up to 12,500 spectators, confirms its status each year as the country’s main venue for bullfighting. Local authorities and organizers note that interest in the event remains strong, and the number of tourists coming specifically for the Feria continues to grow. This brings significant economic benefits to the city and stimulates growth in the service sector.
This year, special attention is being paid to safety and organization: entrance controls have been strengthened and additional services for guests introduced. According to RUSSPAIN, such measures help prevent incidents and maintain a high level of comfort for all participants. It is important to note that despite ongoing debates over the ethics of bullfighting, for many locals this event remains a symbol of continuity and respect for tradition.
Context and comparisons
Among other major cultural events in Spain this spring, Feria de Abril stands out for its scale and media attention. Last year, similar events in Madrid and Valencia did not attract as many spectators as Seville. Analysts note that the success of Feria de Abril is linked not just to the lineup of participants, but also to the city’s unique atmosphere, where tradition meets modern technology. In this context, it’s worth recalling how the recent anniversary show for El Intermedio brought together politicians and celebrities, becoming a significant event for Spanish media—you can learn more about it in the article about the anniversary of El Intermedio and the guests’ reactions.
In recent years, interest in bullfighting in Spain has remained a topic of nationwide discussion. Despite criticism from certain social groups, the tradition continues and attracts the attention of new generations. In 2025, similar events in Barcelona and Zaragoza also made headlines, but Feria de Abril in Seville is regarded as the main event of the spring season. Organizers note that each year, they have to implement new measures to ensure the safety and comfort of spectators, as well as to preserve the unique festive atmosphere.
