A lot is said about the fairs in Seville and Málaga, and somewhat less about the Albacete Fair. We think that is a mistake, because what happens in this city during the ten days of celebrations (from 7 to 17 September) in honour of the Virgen de los Llanos is difficult to put into words. A unique blend of folklore, tradition and celebration that earned it the title of International Tourist Interest Festival. The Albacete Fair is not something you can simply explain — it is something you have to experience. Here are some recommendations to help you make the most of it.

It is true that the whole city embraces the fair, but let’s not kid ourselves: its fairground, known as La Sartén, is the real ‘place-to-be’ during these days. Located around a 15-minute walk from the historic centre, you will not be able to avoid that little rush of excitement as you make your way along the Paseo de la Feria and see the strings of lights or the silhouettes of the fairground rides appear on the horizon (you might call them rides, but here you should use the local term: cacharros de feria).

Once you walk through the entrance and find yourself inside, the celebrations truly begin: people and a fantastic atmosphere wherever you look; stalls that will make you focus on the important things, such as deciding what you fancy eating and what you are going to toast with today; a modernist bandstand that you will want to photograph from every angle; and dozens of stands selling almost everything you can imagine (from toys to the city’s famous pocket knives, as well as cured meats, pickles and locally made artisan products).

Take your time and follow your instincts: you have ten days to discover every corner of a fair that perfectly combines tradition and entertainment.

The Albacete Fair could easily be described as a Renaissance fair, given the sheer variety and number of activities it offers. Its programme has something for everyone: from exhibitions and sporting competitions to processions and parades, as well as exhibitions, theatre performances, children’s activities, craft workshops, film screenings and traditional Manchegas dances, alongside the ever-popular open-air dances and other shows that fill the city throughout these days.

And, of course, music plays a leading role. Every year, the fair features an extensive programme of concerts and performances spread across different venues, such as Caseta de los Jardinillos, Carpa Viva and other stages throughout the city.

There are also traditional events that are not to be missed, such as the Opening Parade, the arrival of the Virgen de los Llanos at the Fairground, folklore displays, children’s activities and the cultural programme that accompanies the celebrations throughout the ten days.

We recommend checking the full Albacete Fair programme to plan your visit and make sure you do not miss any of the activities.

There are a few essentials you should try if you want to say, with good reason, that you have truly experienced the Albacete Fair.

First up is the ‘chorimorci’ sandwich, a hearty local classic that brings together the best of two worlds between slices of bread: chorizo and morcilla (black pudding). The ‘guarra’ sandwiches, or red sausage sandwiches, are also hugely popular.

During the evenings at the fair, it is also very common to order a portion of prawns and some Almagro aubergines. And whatever you do, do not miss the gazpacho manchego, a hearty dish that is completely different from Andalusian gazpacho (it is served hot and made with bread, rabbit, mushrooms and chicken).

And finally, there is no debate here. Dessert has to be the famous Miguelitos de La Roda, ideally enjoyed with a small glass of cider.

It is quite possible that, after spending time at the fairground, you will have decided that you could happily stay there forever. However, when your body eventually asks for a rest, you will want to return to a quiet and peaceful room, with everything ready to welcome you and a generously sized bed where sleep catches up with you the moment you touch the mattress.

Luckily, you will find all of this at Sercotel Los Llanos. The hotel also offers parking, so you can forget about the car during days when finding a space can be challenging; a café and restaurant, perfect for recharging your batteries; and a buffet breakfast, giving you the energy you need for everything waiting for you each day.