President of the Government visited Azores Christmas Crafts Fair and praised regional talent - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, visited the Azores Christmas Crafts Fair in Ponta Delgada on Friday, highlighting the "prestige and dedication" of regional artisans.

"We have to acknowledge the good political strategy of the Government in promoting demand and participation in this growth. As I entered Portas do Mar, I was reminded that the world enters through here - but through our craftwork, the Azores are expressing themselves to the world," he said.

The 3rd edition of the Azores Christmas Crafts Fair runs until Tuesday at the Pavilhão do Mar in Portas do Mar, Ponta Delgada.

"We are building on this legacy and making the most of it," continued José Manuel Bolieiro, who was accompanied by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Vocational Training and Employment, Maria João Carreiro.

The event features the participation of 84 Craft Production Units from eight of the archipelago's nine islands - São Miguel, Pico, Faial, Terceira, Graciosa, Flores, Corvo and São Jorge, in a showcase of craft products that includes products certified under the collective brand "Azorean Handicrafts" and also productions by two artisans from the island of Madeira.

Admission to the event is free.

In addition to promoting and selling the craft products on display, this Christmas market dedicated to Azorean handicrafts also includes daily workshops on techniques for crafting "Lapinha" (sea-themed) nativity scenes, textile Christmas ornaments and macramé, among other techniques, as well as itinerant entertainment.