The Asturias International Trade Fair (FIDMA), one of the main summer events in the Principality, has now been in existence for more than half a century.
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.
These days Gijón is the ideal city to combine business and pleasure , as the activities typical of this modern city envelop the fair in an atmosphere 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.
Furthermore, over time it has also significantly improved its facilities, and now has a new Central Pavilion , which became the epicenter of the fair after being inaugurated on the occasion of the 50th edition of FIDMA, in 2006.
The venue as a whole stands out for its functional beauty and versatility, and has the most advanced audiovisual equipment, press office, catering service, public relations and protocol technicians; all the resources needed to make an event of this size an organizational success every year.
The trade fair is bustling with activity and excitement, and deserves a leisurely visit. Children will also have a great time, as there's a large children's amusement park.
The visit can also be a good excuse to visit Gijón in August, a month when the city is vibrant, lively, and very well-equipped for holiday leisure. In reality, people who come to the fair usually go more to stroll around , browse the dozens of small stalls with products for the average consumer, check out the new electronic gadgets on display, buy a souvenir, receive a gift (because many stands offer surprises), and also to sample Asturian cuisine in the numerous food stalls set up for that purpose.
El Molinón Stadium
Very close to that bustling enclosure appears El Molinón, the stadium of Real Sporting de GijónIt is considered one of the oldest football grounds still in use in Spain. Its origins date back to the early 20th century, when this area was nothing more than meadows through which the river flowed. The name refers to an old mill that once stood there, and over time, the stadium has become an emblem of the city and its football fans.
If you want to follow the complete route of Sporting Gijon Since 1905, you can see our report.
Sporting Gijon
As their anthem states, Real Sporting de Gijón is a club with a "brilliant history." More than one hundred years… Read more
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
