Celebrating Craftsmanship at the XXXVII Feria Insular de Artesanía Fuerteventura 2026
On the sunny afternoon of May 7, the small town of Antigua played host to an event that exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of Fuerteventura—the inauguration of the XXXVII Feria Insular de Artesanía Fuerteventura 2026. The ceremony was graced by prominent figures including the Mayor of Antigua, Matías Peña, Margarita De Vera, the spokesperson for the Foundation Colectivo Mafasca, and Lola García, the President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura. Also present were Lolina Negrín, a councilor, and Jonathan Peña, the councilor for Culture.
Remembering a Local Hero
As the scissors sliced through the ceremonial ribbon, the atmosphere was laden with nostalgia and respect. The event not only celebrated artisanship but also took a moment to remember a stalwart of local media, the late director of Radio Sintonía. Mayor Matías Peña paid tribute to this impactful figure, igniting a wave of applause from an appreciative audience. His heartfelt acknowledgment painted a vivid picture of the interconnectedness between local culture and its community voices.
Highlighting Regional Craftsmanship
Mayor Peña further elaborated on the importance of this fair, which serves as a significant hub for artisans from various islands. “We welcome artisans and facilitate their participation, and in return, they offer us the best representation of traditional craftsmanship,” he stated. He emphasized the commitment of Antigua to sustain this legacy, stating, “The fair, with an investment reaching €300,000, will persevere with or without additional collaboration.” This commitment reflects decades of hard work from generations of artisans determined to preserve their crafts and culture.
The Role of Volunteering
Margarita De Vera, representing the Foundation Colectivo Mafasca, took the stage to shine a light on the invaluable contributions of volunteers from the community. She stressed the goal of creating an inviting atmosphere where artisans feel at home showcasing their unique creations. Each piece displayed during the fair tells a story—crafted with care and steeped in tradition. De Vera took a moment to honor Bernard Glauser, the winner of the Insular Craftsmanship Award, acknowledging his role in the fair’s development over the years.
Pride in Local Artisanship
Lola García, the President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, welcomed attendees with heartfelt words, elucidating that the fair represents more than just a marketplace. “It’s a pride for our island, the culmination of our artisans’ year-long hard work,” she shared. García highlighted the authenticity of local talent, noting that the fair serves as a platform to champion the importance of consuming local crafts—a message that resonates deeply within the community.
Continuous Support for Artisans
In her address, García also reiterated the Cabildo’s ongoing support for the craftsmanship sector throughout the year. She spoke about initiatives that provide economic assistance, logistical help, and training, reinforcing the need to preserve traditional practices for future generations. This dedication underscores the collaboration between local government and artisans, cultivating a thriving crafts community that is deeply rooted in history and identity.
A Celebration of Unique Treasures
As attendees roamed the stalls brimming with handcrafted items—from intricately designed jewelry to beautifully woven textiles—the fair transformed into a treasure trove of creativity. Each artisan shared their passion and skill, inviting all to appreciate the artistic expression inherent in their work. The vibrant atmosphere buzzed with conversations about techniques, traditions, and the profound stories behind each piece, illustrating the cultural tapestry of Fuerteventura.
The XXXVII Feria Insular de Artesanía are more than just an event; they are a celebration of identity, community, and the artistry that connects generations. Each stall represents a testament to hard work, devotion, and the beauty of craftsmanship that the island takes immense pride in showcasing.
