Regent Street Festival 2006
A Walk Through Spain

The Regent Street Festival 2006: A Walk through Spain was a roaring success, attracting crowds of over 400, 000 people.

On a glorious day of blue skies and sunshine, Regent Street was closed for traffic for the day as families, couples and friends attending the festival revelled in the fiesta atmosphere of Spain, sampling live music, culture and cuisine from 12 different Spanish regions.

Rising Spanish star Paulo Nuttini, opened the festival at midday with a stunning performance of his hit single ‘Last Request.’

As couples basked in the sun on Regent Street’s 400 metre long beach outside Austin Reed and enjoyed samples of Harvey’s Orange Sherry, rioja and portions of a giant paella cooked on an open fire in the street, families watched in awe at the creation of the human Castellar towers and dancing horses from the Balearic Islands.

Acrobats, contemporary ballet and flamenco dancers, marching bands and intriguing human statues entertained the crowds on the main stage throughout the day with Virgin Radio’s presenters directing the entertainment.

The retailers on Regent Street also got involved in the Spanish spirit, offering free samples of Spanish wines and canapés to shoppers, regular fashion shows and enticing discounts for the day.

Mayor Ken Livingstone commenting on the festival praised Regent Street for offering, “a rare platform for showcasing talented Spanish performers in the heart of London's West End.”

"Our capital is the most ethnically diverse city in Europe, so it is fitting that tourists and Londoners alike will have the opportunity to experience and enjoy the best of Spanish culture.

"Events like these are essential to encourage investment for the capital's creative industries, as well as being an excellent day out for tourists and Londoners alike."