The International Fair of Samples of Asturias (FIDMA), one of the main summertime appointments of the Principality, already adds more than half a century of existence.
More than 1.600 exhibitors from all productive sectors of the economy participate in it, and although it is conceived in a business manner, it is not exclusive to professionals. FIDMA mixes activities of this type with an intense parallel program, open to all audiences, and in which authorities, prominent representatives from the business world, major national and foreign exhibitors, and social and cultural groups who meet once a year in Gijón around conventions, congresses, gala dinners, exhibitions and samples of all kinds. The event thus becomes a nerve center for industry, commerce, culture and free time.
Gijón is these days the ideal city for alternate business and pleasure, since the activities of this modern city surround the fair in a climate of communication and cultural exchange.
Although the fair began with a regional character, convening Asturian companies and institutions, it has gradually become a showcase in which other communities and countries exhibit their products; hence, the name international has been earned over the years.
In addition, over time it has also significantly improved its facilities, and now has a New Central Pavilion, turned into the fair epicenter after being inaugurated on the occasion of the 50 edition of FIDMA, in 2006.
The venue as a whole stands out for its functional beauty and versatility, and has the most advanced audiovisual media, press office, catering service, public relations technicians and protocol; all the means that are needed for an event of these dimensions to be an organizational success every year.
The Fair of samples overflows bustle and expectation, and deserves a quiet visit. Children will also have a good time as there is a great children's amusement park.
The visit can also be a good excuse to get closer to Gijón in a month, August, in which the city is full, fun and very well equipped for holiday leisure. Actually people who go to the fair usually go more to a shower, visit the dozens of small stalls with products for the consumer on foot, take a look at the new electronic devices that are shown, buy a souvenir, receive a gift (because many stands give you surprises) and also to taste the Asturian food in the dozens of corners enabled for such purpose.
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
