The Crafts Fair started yesterday and already has 36 years of history. 68 exhibitors, 58 of whom are artisans, showcase what they do best. However, rain can be a problem for traders, who hope to somehow boost their businesses. “Our traditional chanterelle is always sought after because it is the chanterelle of Bragança. I recognize that people sometimes say they are expensive but they don’t see how much work it takes to maintain the tradition”, said an artisan. “We make terrariums, botanical paintings and biojewelry, which are made with natural plants. I usually sell well at this fair”, said another artisan. “I have works made by hand, backpacks, wallets… they are made of cotton, twisted silk thread and wool. They are unique pieces. I came with expectations but I think time will ruin everything”, explained another participant.
According to Maria João Rodrigues, president of the Commercial, Industrial and Services Association of Bragança, the organizing entity, the majority of exhibitors are from the district. “The vast majority are from Bragança, from the district. We always make our choice based on the Feira das Cantarinhas of previous years but we focus on the locals. We always strive for diversity at the Crafts Fair but, perhaps, we no longer have artisans who make the songs intended for crafts. We would have a lot of merchants who sell chanterelles, but this is a space for artisans so we always have to strive to manufacture the raw materials themselves.”
This year, there are two more exhibitors than in the previous edition. Even so, due to the high demand, the president of the Chamber of Bragança, Paulo Xavier, says that the fair could grow next year, although the square will be limited. “Possibly, next year, we will create more space. The square is complete and there is no room for more artisans and we hope that next year, the way we are setting this all up, there will be even more because there is a very long waiting list”.
The Bragança Crafts Fair started this Wednesday and runs until Sunday, at Praça Camões. On Friday, at the same time, the Feira das Cantarinhas begins, filling the streets near Praça da Sé with exhibitors from all over the country. The event attracts thousands of visitors, particularly Spaniards.
Written by Brigantia
