El Carmen y la Sal Fair

One of the main festivities in San Fernando takes place in July – El Carmen y la Sal Fair. Its name comes from the Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint of San Fernando and the Marina, and from salt, a vitally important product in the town throughout its history.

The fair has been declared an event of Tourist Interest in Andalusia and is one of the most important festivities in the Bay of Cadiz. It reflects the deeply-rooted traditions in the area that date from the 18th century.

The fair is inaugurated with the proclamation of the Salinera Mayor and her court of Salineras. Then the fairground is inaugurated with the raising of the flag by civil and military authorities. During the week San Fernando is decorated for the fair, with horse riders and flounces of all colours. There are also many marquees where visitors can share and enjoy the magnificent wines and gastronomy of the area, with typical dishes such as shrimp omelette, ham, cured meat, fried fish from the bay, crab pincers or domestic sea snails from La Isla.

Some of the most important activities on the programme are clay pigeon shooting at night or bull events. Some events that take place are the typical competitions like the Marquee Adornment Competition, concerts, women's day, the Salineras' gathering, etc.

The sea procession is also important – it starts at the Gallineras Wharf, where the Virgen del Carmen is embarked. During the procession the image is followed by a large number of boats, and people sing and pray.

These popular festivities in La Isla end with a fireworks display.