The traditions fair in Yeste is set to celebrate its 27th edition from 23 to 25 October, with more than 50 artisans showcasing their crafts. The event aims to preserve the cultural roots and popular traditions of the region, according to Raquel Ruiz, the deputy for tourism.
During the presentation of the fair, held at the Albacete Provincial Council, Ruiz welcomed Yeste's mayor, Santiago Alarcón, and the councillor for tourism and culture, Jesús Ángel García. She highlighted the fair's role as a gathering point for the community, focusing on the identity and customs of Yeste and the Sierra del Segura region.
“This weekend, the heart of the Sierra del Segura will once again beat to the rhythm of history and popular culture,”
Ruiz stated, noting the significance of the local castle, which will host many activities, including demonstrations of traditional crafts. She also announced a new ethnographic exhibition titled ‘The artisans, the soul of our fair’ at the Convent of the Franciscans, which will trace the history of the event.
This year’s theme for the discussion panel is ‘From cloth to blanket: Memory of our looms’. Ruiz explained that looms were integral to daily life, and this initiative aims to connect younger generations with traditional craftsmanship.
She underscored the fair's contribution to tourism, helping to promote Yeste's image beyond its borders while boosting the local economy and social activities. Ruiz reaffirmed the provincial government's support for initiatives that authentically showcase the region's cultural and gastronomic heritage.
Alarcón, the mayor, noted that the fair attracts around 10,000 visitors over the weekend, significantly increasing the local population of approximately 2,500. He shared details of this year's fair, including the addition of animal tents and transportation services for tourists and residents.
García highlighted the variety of workshops available, which include traditional crafts such as bread-making, esparto weaving, pottery, and more. The fair will kick off on 23 October with the opening of the market, livestock entries, a parade by the municipal band, and an official inauguration featuring folk performances.
Saturday's activities will centre around the loom discussion, alongside traditional pig slaughtering demonstrations, folk festivals, and a dance competition. The fair will conclude on Sunday with the ‘Meeting of Cuadrillas’, featuring local and regional folk groups, along with gastronomic tastings of local dishes such as olla de trigo and migas.
