41st Pinolere Craft Fair Celebrates Traditional Canarian Heritage in La Orotava

The 41st Pinolere Craft Fair in La Orotava proved once again this weekend that it is the heart of Canary Islands heritage. The Ethnographic Park became a hub for nearly 200 professionals dedicated to keeping traditional trades alive in an age of mass production.

With 164 exhibitors—including 40 food producers—the fair is more than just a market; it is a lesson in culture. Thanks to a free shuttle service from the town center, visitors of all ages were able to explore crafts like pottery, knife-making, and basketry. This year’s event focused specifically on carpentry, with veteran masters returning to the fair to share techniques that might otherwise be lost to time.

The event also served as a platform to honor those who support local culture. The Pinolere Cultural Association presented its 'Cho Feriantes de Honor 2026' awards to Manuel Domínguez, the Liceo de Taoro, and Transportes Paluper. Additionally, the 'Villa de La Orotava' Craft and Heritage Award went to the San José Association and its Band of Carpenters and Relatives. These awards highlight the community spirit that keeps the archipelago’s traditions thriving.

Educational displays explored the history and art of woodworking, while live demonstrations—such as those by master woodturner José Luis Santos—brought the craft to life. A standout feature this year was the construction of an enormous cypress wood spinning top, a project designed to celebrate the value of manual skill.

Sustainability was another key theme, with many artisans showcasing the circular economy by turning waste materials into functional, beautiful objects. Over the course of three days, the Pinolere fair reaffirmed its role as a guardian of Canarian identity, proving that there is still a strong public passion for the ancestral skills that define the region.