Whether you’re looking for some crafty souvenir ideas or simply want to sample the traditional art, cuisine and folklore of the island the annual Artesania fair, starting this Friday 11th September in Mancha Blanca, is now well established as a real must see event and is one of the largest of its kind in the Canaries. And is both a colourful celebration of island culture as well as a warm up for one of Lanzarote’s most popular fiestas, Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores.

Now in its 27th year the Artesania fair features around one hundred different exhibitors, showcasing a wide array of locally produced arts and crafts products. Including pottery woodwork, millinery, pieces made from palm fronds and leather goods.

Foodies will also be delighted to find that the promotion of local gastronomy is also high on the agenda, with stalls offering lots of tempting produce such as local wines, cheeses and traditional Canarian deserts.

Workshops for both adults and children are staged throughout the day and all of this activity is accompanied by regular performances from local folk music and dance groups.

Artesania is open 11.00 to 22.00 from September 11th to 15th and admission is free of charge.