Cultura de Feria en Salamanca

Introduction and local significance

Cultura de Feria in Salamanca is a cultural initiative organised by the Collective of Antiquarian and Second-Hand Bookshops of Salamanca and Province, taking place from 22 to 31 October 2026. This event unfolds simultaneously in the capital of Salamanca and in the municipality of Mogarraz. The initiative arises with a reivindicative purpose, seeking the continuity of the Feria del Libro Antiguo (Antique Book Fair) in light of changes to its traditional location, the Plaza Mayor. By defending this format, the collective aims to maintain culture as a space for civic engagement, integrating various activities that go beyond the direct sale of books. Attendance at all scheduled events is free for the public.

Historical origins and tradition

The celebration of Cultura de Feria in Salamanca responds to an organised reaction from the guild of antiquarian booksellers in the province. Its origin is linked to the protest against the relocation of the Feria del Libro Antiguo y de Ocasión (Antique and Second-Hand Book Fair) from its usual site in the Plaza Mayor of the city. The organisers have framed this event not as a permanent exhibition, but as a call to attention regarding the importance of these bibliographic exchange spaces. By moving part of the activities to Mogarraz, the event connects the cultural heritage of antique books with the rural environment of the province, attempting to raise awareness of the sector among the public outside conventional commercial circuits.

Programme and main events

The programme of Cultura de Feria in Salamanca is structured around seven distinct proposals that include talks, workshops, and free appraisal sessions for attendees. The activities are distributed across several venues located on Calle Compañía, in the historic centre of Salamanca, and extend to the municipality of Mogarraz. Among the activities, the Introduction to Antique Books Workshop stands out, which will take place over two specific sessions on Fridays 23 and 30 October. To participate in this particular workshop, prior registration is mandatory, as places are limited due to the venue's capacity. You can check the detailed schedule and the precise location of each event through the upper section of this event's page.

Traditional festival food

Although Cultura de Feria focuses on the editorial and cultural sphere, visiting Salamanca during these days in October allows you to enjoy the traditional cuisine of the area. In the capital and nearby municipalities, such as Mogarraz, it is common to find dishes based on slaughter products, with hornazo (a pastry filled with pork loin, chorizo, ham, and hard-boiled egg) being particularly notable. Roasted lamb and suckling pig are also representative, as well as the Iberian cured meats from Guijuelo, which are part of the province's usual pantry. During the cool days at the end of October, the consumption of local legumes, such as lentils from La Armuña, is also frequent, typically prepared in traditional stews of Salamanca cuisine.

Visitor guide and where to stay

For attendees travelling to Cultura de Feria in Salamanca from other locations, it is recommended to consider public transport, especially on the busiest days, to avoid parking difficulties in the historic centre. It is preferable to opt for park-and-ride facilities outside the urban area if travelling by private vehicle. Given the nature of the events spread between the capital and Mogarraz, staying in either the municipality of Salamanca or nearby towns facilitates following the programme during the festival days. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, as occupancy can vary during cultural event dates. Before organising your trip, check for updates on the programme, as the times and specific venues for activities may be subject to change.