Antigua unveils the most ambitious 2026 Fuerteventura Island Handicraft Fair
Master jeweler Bernhard Glauser receives the 2026 Island Craft Prize
On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, the historic “Patio Canario de El Portón” in Antigua hosted the official launch of the XXXVII Fuerteventura Island Craft Fair. The ceremony featured speeches from Mayor Matías Peña García, Margarita De Vera – spokesperson for the Mafasca Collective Foundation, Island Councilor for Tourism Marlene Figueroa (standing in for Councilor for Crafts Lolina Negrín, who was absent for family reasons), and Culture Councilor Jonathan Peña.
A record‑breaking fair
Mayor Peña welcomed what he called the most ambitious edition of the fair, highlighting several milestones:
- Over 200 stands spread across plazas, streets, and tents.
- Participation from artisans of all the Canary Islands.
- The largest budget ever allocated to the event.
- A rich program of performances, including acts by Taburiente and Sirinoke Band, among others.
He then announced the patron of this edition’s top award – the Island Craft Prize 2026 – which will be bestowed upon master jeweler Bernhard Glauser.
Volunteer spirit and coordination
Margarita De Vera, speaking for the first time as the Mafasca Collective Foundation’s spokesperson, praised the dedication and hard work of volunteers, as well as the municipal staff and technicians, who together ensure the fair runs smoothly and comfortably for both artisans and visitors.
Island Councilor Marlene Figueroa commended the effective coordination among all parties, noting that each year the fair offers a new, refreshed edition that showcases the pride of Fuerteventura. She emphasized that the event “represents the essence of our identity and is the best showcase for the craftsmanship of all the Canary Islands.”
Supporting local craftsmanship
Closing the ceremony, Culture Councilor Jonathan Peña reminded attendees that every purchase directly supports and sustains both traditional and avant‑garde craftsmanship on the islands.