In 2015, la Feria del Libros de Madrid (the festival of books) is organized in the capital of Spain for the 74th time. This time, the festival has attracted 471 bookstores from Madrid and from other Spanish cities to celebrate books. Participating stores will sell books in their stalls in the city center during the first two weeks of June.

Also authors get to meet readers and sign books. If you happen to be in the neighborhood, look for Parque del Retiro in Madrid, and you will find the festival.

El Pais reported that despite the high unemployment and relatively weak economy that has been troubling Spain for a few years, the atmosphere was optimistic.

Here are a few select photos taken at the book fiesta in Madrid.

Photo by Ahora Madrid on Flickr.

Photo by deramaenrama onp Flickr.

Photo by Ahora Madrid on Flickr.

Photo by manuel on Flickr.

Photo by Ahora Madrid on Flickr.