FERIA DE JULIO This fair was inaugurated on the 21st of July 1871, with a colourful cavalcade, pavilions, a botanical exhibition and the sale of all kinds of local products. Year by year, the celebrations grew. In 1891, the "battle of the flowers" was established: the "battle" takes place on the last Sunday of the festival and is a friendly affair in which women throw flowers from specially decorated floats. For almost an hour, hundreds of thousands of carnations fly through the air, leaving a magical, multicoloured carpet of petals for all to enjoy. During the first fortnight of the Fair, "El Certamen Internacional de Bandas de Musica" (International Musical Band Competition) takes place. This prestigious event started in 1886, El Palau de la Musica and the Plaza de Toros (the bullring), are the venues for the performances. In the second and third weeks of July, La Plaza de Toros plays host to the Feria de San Jaime, a top clasevent for aficionados of bullfighting. El Festival de Viveros offers a wide range of shows, from classical ballet, to rock bands, theatre, folk, Romany dance and zarzuela (Spanish light opera) The July Fair firework displays must be seen to be believed; no expense is spared, they are organised by some of the best pyrotechnic companies in the business.
