Island Craft Fair Arrives with 200 Artisans, 40 Trades and Award for Bernhard Glauser

One of the Canary Islands’ biggest craft events returns from May 7‑10, gathering artisans from across the archipelago in Antigua and offering live workshops, concerts, awards and free transport.

Event Overview

Antigua will host the XXXVII Island Craft Fair of Fuerteventura from May 7 to May 10. More than 200 artisans from all the islands will set up stalls in the town’s main square and streets. The program features:

• About 30 different trades showcased.
• Live workshops in basket‑weaving, leatherwork, ceramics and macramé, all free to the public.
• Musical performances by groups such as Taburiente, Los Cantadores, Sirinoke Band and La Banda del Cuco.
• An official opening on Thursday afternoon, kicking off a four‑day schedule that culminates on Sunday with the presentation of the 2026 Island Craft Award to jeweler Bernhard Glauser.
• Free shuttle buses (guaguas) from Caleta de Fuste on May 8, 9 and 10, with multiple round‑trip times to facilitate attendance for residents and visitors alike.

New Features for the 2026 Fair

The joint organization by the Colectivo Mafasca Foundation and the Antigua City Council has introduced several improvements:

• Four new tents expanding the fairground area.
• Additional shaded zones for visitor comfort.
• Enhanced accessibility throughout the routes.
• A food market with 30+ stalls offering local products.
• An institutional stand featuring audiovisual displays on Antigua’s history, plus workshops and exhibitions, turning it into a cultural information hub.

Budget and Funding

The fair operates with an estimated €300,000 budget covering setup, venue preparation, service contracts and programming. Funding sources:

• The Antigua City Council shoulders the majority of the costs.
• The Cabildo of Fuerteventura contributes €100,000, supporting the promotion and commercialization of island craft.

Official Visit and Statements

During an official visit on May 5, the following officials inspected the preparations:

• Lola García, President of the Cabildo
• Lolina Negrín, Councilor for Crafts
• Matías Peña, Mayor of Antigua
• Jonathan Peña, Councilor for Culture
• Margarita de Vera, representing the Colectivo Mafasca

“The Island Craft Fair turns Antigua into the epicenter of artisanal tradition, showcasing the work of more than two hundred artisans from all the islands,” Mayor Matías Peña said.

The Cabildo highlighted that the fair originated from an initiative by the Colectivo Mafasca, whose role has been pivotal for nearly four decades.

The fair promises a vibrant celebration of Canary Island craftsmanship, bringing together creators, audiences and cultural heritage in a lively, accessible setting.