National Handicrafts Fair: Cutarras, polleras, tembleques, and 677 exhibitors from across the country at Atlapa

Panama's 46th National Handicrafts Fair has opened its doors at the Atlapa Convention Center, showcasing a record-breaking 677 artisans from across the country. This significant increase in exhibitors, up from approximately 460 last year, aims to invigorate the handicraft sector's economy and celebrate Panamanian traditions until August 2.

Minister of Culture Maruja Herrera highlighted the fair's role in promoting national identity, folklore, and the country's multicultural and multiethnic diversity. She extended an invitation to all Panamanian families to experience the rich cultural expressions gathered at the event. "We want to promote and invite all the Panamanian population, families, to come and share an experience of our identity, our folklore, and our pluricultural and multiethnic diversity," Herrera stated during the inauguration.

The fair serves as a crucial platform for artisans, offering them a vital space to market their unique creations and enhance their earnings. "The country's economy and the economy of each of these artists are supported," Herrera emphasized, underscoring the direct economic impact on the creators and the nation.

Visitors can explore a wide array of traditional Panamanian crafts, including painted hats, 'cutarras' (traditional sandals), 'polleras' (traditional dresses), 'tembleques' (hair ornaments), wood carvings, seed jewelry, soapstone items, and ceramics, catering to various budgets. Beyond the commercial aspect, the fair includes artistic performances, folkloric displays, and a gastronomic offering featuring regional specialties.

Artisans from provinces like Coclé are presenting their hand-painted woodcrafts and resin finishes, while others display the iconic painted hats from La Pintada. The fair, running until Sunday, August 2, encourages both locals and tourists to support Panamanian artisanal talent by purchasing directly from the creators.