Art Exhibits, Events and Festivals in Seville

Sevilla is a great place to take in an exhibit, whether you want to see painting, sculpture, architecture, or photography. There's always something to see thanks to the Ayuntamiento and Cajas which sponsor such events. Private studios can be found throughout the center with rotating collections by local artists. The pieces displayed differ in form and quality. Of course you can take in a permanent exhibit by simply walking around Sevilla or hitting one of the many museums. There's always something on display! Sevilla also attracts a great number of events and festivals. Music, food, sports, theatre and dance are just a few festival themes you'll see annually, if not more often. The topics below will change according to what's going on in Sevilla every month or so. Listed below are my favorites - most I've been to see, will be seeing once they start, or have been informed I should see and will never make! So I'll try to give you a little insight into what they're all about.

Davis Cup Finals in Seville!
Location: Estadio Olimipico (Olympic Stadium)
Dates: 2 - 4 December
Sevilla will once again be home to the Davis Cup Finals! Just before the holidays, Seville will welcome Spain and Argentina to see who will claim the Davis Cup this year. In 2004 Spain defeated the U.S. 3-2 for the cup. The site is the Olympic Stadium which seats close to 60,000, but which will be fitted for a crowd of about 30,000 for the tennis matches. Tickets should go on sale soon, and expect hotels and other accommodations to be booked in advance during these dates!

 

 

Feria del Belén
Location: Between the Cathedral and Archivo de Indias
Dates: Approx. 11 November - 23 December
A tradition throughout Spain and certainly in Sevilla is that of the belén, or nativity scene. Now is the time where people purchase the figures and scenery either for a new or to add to existing belenes. Christmas ornaments, cards and other decorations are available as well. This year the market has moved: between the Cathedral and the Archivo de Indias. More information can be found in my holidays in Seville section.

 

 

Holiday Lights
Location: Seville City Center
Dates: 2 December - 6 January
In early November they are already making preparations on many streets, but they don't flip the switch on the Christmas lights until the holiday weekend beginning on 2 December (they will light them up for the Davis Cup Finals). From this time through New Year's they keep the center cheerful until officially being turned off around 6 January. The lights bring crowds to the center to shop and make for some great photos if you have a good tripod! This year they should have more streets lit up - enjoy!

 

Muestra de Dulces de los Conventos
Location: Reales Alcázares (Palacio Gótico)
Dates: 6 - 8 December
Once a year (conveniently timed before the holidays) 16 convents from Seville city and the rest of the province gather in the Reales Alcázares to exhibit, and of course sell, their traditional sweets. Each year there is a new twist to their offerings and each year there are long lines as sevillanos stock up before the Christmas holidays. While you can get many of these treats during the year, it's only once a year they are all together in the same place.
 

Día de la Inmaculada Concepción
Location: Plaza del Triunfo
Dates: 7 (8) December
Celebrating the Immaculate Conception on December 8th, this is an official holiday in Spain, shared typically over a long weekend with Constitution Day (December 6th). In Sevilla it is best known for the night before on the 7th when los tunos, university student musical groups or fraternities, dress up and head into the streets to play guitar and sing through the night. All end up in front of La Purisima, leaving flowers and taking turns serenading the statue representing the Virgin Mary. More information can be found in my holidays in Seville section.

 

Circo de los Horrores
Location: Next to the Los Remedios bridge
Dates: 3 December - 8 January
Web: circodeloshorrores.com
Still not over Halloween? If you're looking to celebrate a spooky Christmas then stop by the Circo de Horrores to get your fill of fright! Set up just next to the Los Remedios bridge, the circus is dedicated to spreading panic and fear in the audience so perhaps it's a good idea to leave the young ones at home. Tickets can be purchased in advance through El Corte Ingles and start around 11 Euros if you take advantage of special promotions. If you're looking for a circus less gruesome then check out the below listing!

 

Cirque Imaginaire: Storm
Location: Teatro Lope de Vega
Dates: 7 - 18 December
Web: cirqueimaginaire.com
For just eleven days the Cirque Imaginaire comes to the Teatro Lope de Vega. In the style of the Cirque du Soleil but on a smaller scale, the circus is full of special effects to let you feel the force of nature (hence the name "Storm"). Many of the producers and artists have previously been with the Cirque du Soleil. The circus is part theatre, part musical and of course part circus! Tickets can also be purchased in advance through El Corte Ingles or at the Teatro Lope de Vega.

 

Mercado de Artesania
Location: Plaza Nueva
Dates: 16 December - 5 January
This is perhaps the best place to find gifts for the holidays, with plenty of art, crafts, jewelry, clothing and more to choose from. All sold directly from the makers to you, plus a demonstration booth and even a bar at the far end of Plaza Nueva. More information can be found in my holidays in Seville section.

 

 

Flamenco New Year's Shows
Location: Sevilla
Dates: 31 December
Finding something to do on New Year's Eve when you are traveling can often be difficult. If you want a little Andalusian flavor there are several New Year's flamenco shows in the city. Anything from a short show with a drink to a complete evening with drinks, dinner, dancing and more. So you can choose to simply start your night with a flamenco show or spend the entire night with a New Year's show and more. Prices vary from around 40 Euros and can go as high as 200 Euros for dinner, drinks and everything included. More deatils and information.

 

NFL Playoffs
Location: Watch in Tex-Mex Bar (calle Placentines)
Dates: begins 7 January
web: texmexsportsbar.com
You can catch every game, either live or tape delayed in the Texas Lone Star Saloon, located a block from the Cathedral on calle Placentines. With 13 large flat screen televisions and plenty of American ambience, this is one of the best places in the city to watch the NFL playoffs. It is recommended to arrive early to get a good seat. If you happen to have Digital Plus (Spanish satelite) you can catch the games on Sportmania, Canal Plus Deportes and Canal Plus.

Diego Rivera, Cubista. De la academia a la vanguardia (1907-1921)
Location: Casa de la Provincia
Dates: 7 September - 30 October
The exhibit from the Mexican Museum of Modern Art features about thirty lesser known paintings by Diego Rivera which come from different collections including the National Gallery of Art in Washington and the Bronfman Collection. The works are date to when the Mexican artist spent many years traveling in Europe. While in Spain he studied artists such as Picasso, Goya and Valle Inclán. The location is the Casa de la Provincia, located between the Cathedral and Alcazar.

Plaza Encarnacion, market and Parasol are open!
Location: Plaza de la Encarnacion
Dates: now
Almost 40 years of waiting ended this spring, as the finishing touches for the Encarnacion market were being put in place. It's hard to miss the work as you wander a few blocks up from La Campana and the central shopping district. What looks like several giant mushrooms (setas in Spanish) are the towers which will hold an overlook and bar, as well as provide shade for the market. The market officially opened during the holidays, while the museum and overlook opened shortly afterwards. And while there are still the restaurants on top to be completed, you can now shop for food or get a beer at one of the bars in the market, explore the ruins beneath in the Antiquarium (museum), or take the elevator to the top for a splendid view (for non-residents the cost is 1,20 Euros).

 

Iglesia Salvador Restored
Location: Plaza del Salvador
Dates: now
The renovations and excavations in Sevilla's most famous baroque church are finally over, with the exception of a few pieces here and there. The ruins of a mosque and other very important historical items were uncovered below the church. But now, after five years of excellent overall restoration work, the church itself has returned. Not only are the altars and important pieces of art restored, but there is much more light to see the details. The church almost feels like a small cathedral, and certainly rivals many of those in nearby cities.

 

Iglesia del Buen Suceso Restored
Location: Plaza del Buen Suceso
Dates: now
This little baroque church is just a few blocks away from the Plaza Alfalfa and Plaza Cristo de Burgos. With works by Domingo Martinez, impressive red marble columns and similarities to Iglesia Salvador and Iglesia San Luis (two of my favorite churches in Seville), this 18th century church is worth a visit. It is only open in the morning and afternoon during misa (mass).

 

 

Liga Profesional de Fútbol
Location: Seville
Dates: Sep 2010 - Jun 2011
The Spanish first division schedule is brutally long, especially when there is no World Cup or European Championships to be played during the summer. This is good news if you are visiting and want to catch a match. While you should pull for Betis, I realize some of you may have a weakness (and it is a very sad weakness) and need to see a match no matter what. The benefit of having two teams in Seville means there is a match almost every weekend.

Betis vs. Real Sociedad
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 26-27 November
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
In celebration of Thanksgiving Day (ok, of course they aren't celebrating Thanksgiving) Betis welcomes Real Sociedad on the weekend of 26-27 November. Betis has been going through a rough patch and hopefully by this time things will be straightened out! As bad as it's been for Betis, Real Sociedad has been suffering the most and has found itself at the bottom of the league table for the most of the season so far.

 

Davis Cup Finals in Seville!
Location: Estadio Olimipico (Olympic Stadium)
Dates: 2 - 4 December
The Sevilla will once again be home to the Davis Cup Finals! Just before the holidays, Seville will welcome Spain and Argentina to see who will claim the Davis Cup this year. In 2004 Spain defeated the U.S. 3-2 for the cup. The site is the Olympic Stadium which seats close to 60,000, but which will be fitted for a crowd of about 30,000 for the tennis matches. Tickets should go on sale soon, and expect hotels and other accommodations to be booked in advance during these dates!

 

Betis vs Valencia
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 10-11 December
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Valenica visits in what should be a very important match for Betis. This is the last home match before La Liga takes a short holiday break in December. Valencia is at the top of the league table with Barcelona and Real Madrid. Betis should be looking to solidfy their position in the middle of the table in hopes of working their way back to the UEFA spots before the second leg of the season begins.

 

Sevilla vs. Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 17-18 December
Real Madrid always draws a crowd from the north as well as a strong group of tourists looking to get a glimpse at one of the world's top teams. This could be a key game for both sides as Sevilla hopes to cut into Madrid's lead in the table. And Madrid will likely still be looking to catch Barcelona for the league crown. I would expect this to be an expensive ticket, but my advice to those thinking about coming for the match: it's worth it if you come to cheer for Madrid ;) Just cheer quietly to keep yourself out of any trouble at the stadium...

 

Los Gallos Tablao Flamenco
Location: Plaza Santa Cruz, 11
Dates: Every night (20:00; 22:30)
Reservations: flamencotickets.com
Los Gallos is one of Seville’s oldest tablaos and perhaps one of the best locations: a renovated historic home in the Plaza de Santa Cruz. The venue is smaller than some of the larger tablaos, and puts to use the rustic and traditional architecture of the original building as a backdrop for traditional flamenco performances. Los Gallos has only one options for tickets: Show + Drink.
Book this show.

 

Auditorio Alvarez Quintero
Location: Calle Alvarez Quintero, 48
Dates: Every night (21:00)
Reservations: flamencotickets.com
Auditorio Alvarez Quintero is a recent addition to the Seville flamenco scene. Located in a recently renovated 18th century building, the location is only a few meters away from the Cathedral. The owners who once lived in the same house have converted the space to include an area for flamenco performances as well as an art gallery and workshop. Auditorio Alvarez Quintero has only one ticket option for the show (no drink or meal services) Book this show.

 

Museo del Baile Flamenco (Museum of Flamenco Dance)
Location: Calle Manuel Rojas Marcos, 3
Dates: Every night (19:00 weekdays; 19:30 weekends)
Reservations: flamencotickets.com
The Museo del Baile Flamenco (Museum of Flamenco Dance) in Seville was opened a few years ago. This is an impressive venue for some of Seville’s best flamenco in a shorter format. Located in the Santa Cruz quarter, the museum offers shows from Sunday to Thursday, as well as longer weekend shows (Fri - Sat). There are many ticket options, including packages for a visit to the museum and introductory flamenco classes. Book this show.

 

Tablao El Arenal
Location: Calle Rodo, 7
Dates: Every night (20:00; 22:00)
Reservations: flamencotickets.com
Tablao El Arenal takes its name from the neighborhood in Seville between the Cathedral and the Guadalquivir river. The central location, just a few blocks away from the Maestranza bullring, features a typical 17th century Andalusian building, renovated to offer full dinner and bar service. The flamenco shows last about an hour and a half. Ticket options include the show with a drink, tapas or complete dinner. Book this show.

 

El Palacio Andaluz
Location: María Auxiliadora, 18-B
Dates: Every night (19:00; 21:30)
Reservations: flamencotickets.com
The venue is a completely renovated warehouse in the city of Seville, offering over 500 square meters of space, including a large stage area, a typical Andalusian Bodega and plenty of tables with full bar and restaurant service. The venue is more of a theatre setting with the largest capacity and stage of any of the tablaos in Seville. Ticket options include the show with drink, tapas or complete dinner. Book this show.

 

El Patio Sevillano
Location: Paseo Cristobal Colon, 11A
Dates: Every night (19:00; 21:30)
Reservations: flamencotickets.com
What is now El Patio Sevillano began in 1952 when the owners founded "Cortijo el Guajiro", located in the very center of Seville. The owners brought to the stage many talented performers, leading to further success. In its early days El Cortijo featured the young talents of Trini España, Matilde Coral, El Farruco, etc. The venus has moved closer to the river, offering ticket options of show with drink, tapas or full dinner service. Book this show.

 

Flamenco Shows in Seville
Location: Various venues
Dates: Every day
web: flamencotickets.com
There are a wide variety of daily flamenco shows in Seville, with locations in different parts of the city center. In the section below you will find a list of regularly programmed shows. They range in size from large theatre style (El Palacio Anadaluz) to smaller tablaos (Tablao El Arenal) where a meal is included. Then there are smaller venues with just a drink, from Los Gallos in Santa Cruz to Auditorio Alvarez Quintero and the Flamenco Museum. You can buy tickets in advance through flamencotickets.com. Or see the listing below for flamenco shows in Seville.

 

Peñas de Guardia
Location: Various "Peñas" (Flamenco Clubs)
Dates: September, October, November
web: sevillafederacionflamenca.es
Peñas are cultural associations, and for flamenco these are some of the best places to see young artists in a more local setting. The "Peñas de Guardia" series features different flamenco performances by local artists each week. Ticket prices are around 6 Euros, and most start times are 22:00. Some of the peñas participating in Seville are: El Chozas, Flamenca Cantes Al Aire, Torres Macarena, Niño Ricardo, El Turruñuelo, Cerro del Águila, and Pies Plomos.

 

Private art galleries are another great way to see some local artists and of course out of the ordinary works. Some are more traditional while others offer more "cutting edge", if you will. The following galleries almost always have something on display:

Galería Álvarez Quintero
Location: c/Álvarez Quintero 48

Galería Álvaro
Location: Plaza de Doña Elvira

Galería Nuevoarte
Location: c/San Vicente, 32

Galería Pepe Cobo
Location: c/Cardenal Cisneros, 5

Galería Haurie
Location: c/Guzman el Bueno, 9

Galería San Vicente
Location: c/San Vicente, 31

Galería Isabel Ignacio
Location: c/Velarde, 9

Galería Rafael Ortiz
Location: c/Marmoles, 12

Galería Full Art
Location: c/Madrid, 4, bajo 1

Galería Margarita Albarrán
Location: c/Meson de Caballeros, 2

More places where you can regularly catch a good show are below but I don't keep up regularly with the schedule of all of them. In many of the bars there's no cover - just pay for your drinks! In some of the smaller concert halls expect anywhere from 6-20€ depending on the show. More recommendations to come soon as I spend a few late nights out looking for the music scene:

Bars

El Cafetal
(Avda Ciudad Jardin, 5)
A little further out and now in their tenth year of carrying live acts.

El Perro Andaluz
(Santa Catalina - c/Bustos Tavera, 11)
Rock, blues, flamenco, country-rock, reggae - they do a little of everything in the recently renovated local. Nice bar frequented by local actors and artists in the heart of Santa Catalina.

La Carboneria
(Santa Cruz - c/Levies)
More flamenco than anything else, but you can find other acts in both the front and back room. This bar is famous and frequented by tourists as well as Spaniards. The front room often houses works by local artists. In the summer the back patio is a cool place to be. In the winter the front room with two fireplaces offers a cozy place to warm up.

Jazz Corner
(Buhaira - c/ Juan Antonio Cavestany)
Jazz as Lisa Simpson would like - the "saxamaphone". But it doesn't stop there, so stop by and check out what they've got going.

La Buena Estrella
(Alameda - c/Trajano , 51)
More jazz in Alameda with weekly jam sessions.

Cafe Naima
(Alameda - c/Conde de Barajas, 2)
Another place in the Alameda to listen to jazz, although I guess not live. While I received reports that there was some live stuff going on, I received a correction that it's only the atmosphere, and never a band, you can find in this bar.

Pub Taifa
(Centro - Plaza Gavidia)
Live jazz and blues on Friday and Saturday nights.

Azucar de Cuba
(Centro - Paseo de Colon)
Right before the bridge to Los Remedios it's another great place to take in some live Cuban music, sip on a daiquiri and smoke a cuban cigar. Dinner and lunch is also served - an authentic Cuban dining experience.

Small "Concert" Halls

Sala Fun Club
(Alameda)
Local, regional and larger acts. Hip-hop to metal, funk and alternative.

Weekend
(Centro/Torneo - c/Torneo)
As well a good mix of acts - neighbors have complained for years about the noise, so they put on some loud shows.

Sala Salvation
Heavy to alternative and a little of everything else.

Casas Ocupadas
Alternative music - some punk, some rock.

Larger Venues

Estadio Olimpico
(across the Puente del Alamillo)
Large acts have made their way here, including Mana. A first rate outdoor venue where they hope to one day host the Olympics, if the heat ever dies down.

El Palenque
(La Cartuja)
Closer to the center of Sevilla than the Estadio Olimpico and an indoor place for off weather nights. El Palenque hosts international and national acts frequently.

Teatro Central
(La Cartuja)
A mix of the arts with mainly theatre and music performances. Generally plenty of flamenco and other contemporary music each month.

Teatro Lope de Vega
(Arenal)
Aside from opera, theatre and the symphony you'll find an occasional flamenco performance by some of the best artists in the world. Very convenient to the center.