Following the conclusion of the Figueres festivities, a fairground operator with over five decades of experience in the attractions sector reveals the reality behind the lights and music. This reality includes considerable investments, complex schedules, and an itinerant lifestyle that often goes unnoticed by the public.
The connection to the world of fairs is a family tradition for many. In the case of the association's president, his parents were already involved in this activity before his birth, making him the second generation of fairground operators. The operational base, including warehouses and repair shops, is located in Girona, although the family originates from Palamós.
The Figueres fair, which has changed locations several times over the years, is one of the most important for Girona's fairground operators. This fair, due to its size and its ability to attract visitors from across the region, is crucial for the sector. However, factors such as adverse weather or power outages can affect its operation.
“"Our work primarily involves negotiating so that, when we arrive, we already have basic services like electricity and water; without these, we cannot set up the fair."
The relationship with local councils is fundamental and generally good, although differences in criteria can arise, especially regarding operating hours. Fairground operators face significant costs for setup, such as the 1,800 euros a bumper car attraction can cost in Figueres. This investment requires a substantial volume of business to be profitable, which is compromised by time restrictions, like those recently imposed in Olot.
The attractions seen at Girona's fairs come from various parts of Catalonia and other regions of Spain, with a notable presence of Italian, French, and German manufacturers, renowned for their quality. The sector has observed a change in public attendance, partly attributed to the increase in digital entertainment options for children. Investment in an attraction can range from 50,000 euros to a million, with bumper cars alone potentially costing between 70,000 and 100,000 euros.
Safety is a crucial and highly regulated aspect of the fairground world. All attractions undergo thorough inspections by engineers and must comply with strict safety systems. Technological advancements have enabled the implementation of systems that prevent attractions from starting if all protocols are not met, and the use of low voltages in accessible areas minimizes risks.
The life of a fairground operator is described as difficult and demanding. It involves a weekly cycle of dismantling, loading, transporting, and reassembling attractions in different locations. This process, which can be complex and laborious, is often invisible to the public, who only perceive the fair once it is set up and fully operational.
