The Francisco Acosta Cultural Centre in Isora hosts the Almond and Fig Fair this Saturday, an event aimed at highlighting these emblematic products of El Hierro and boosting the local economy.
The Francisco Acosta Cultural Centre in Isora has become the epicentre of the promotion of two star products from El Hierro: almonds and figs. The Fair, organised by the Valverde City Council and supported by the Government of the Canary Islands, has kicked off with the presence of the Minister of Agriculture, Narvay Quintero, and the mayor, Carlos Brito.
A boost to the local economy
This initiative is part of the Dinamiza Rural programme of the Government of the Canary Islands, aimed at municipalities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants. The goal is to strengthen the primary sector, stimulate the local economy, and help retain population in rural areas. For the residents of Valverde, this fair represents an opportunity to showcase their products and create new marketing avenues.
Quintero highlighted that “this initiative allows us to showcase the quality and gastronomic and commercial possibilities of two productions closely linked to the landscape, culture, and identity of El Hierro.” He also noted that the recovery of traditional crops such as fig and almond trees helps diversify economic activity and preserve agricultural landscapes.
Activities for all audiences
The fair, which runs until 23:30 hours, includes a wide-ranging programme. The professor from the University of La Laguna, Antonio Perdomo Molina, has given a talk on the tradition and production of figs and almonds in El Hierro. Nutritionist Tania Gómez has offered a guided tasting on the nutritional properties of these foods.
Organic farmers José Delgado and Jésica Jurado have conducted a live cooking demonstration of mojos and sauces. Chef Brian Rodríguez has prepared dishes using local figs and almonds. A popular contest has also been held to award the best dessert and the best traditional recipe using these ingredients.
The mayor, Carlos Brito, emphasised that “holding this event enriches the cultural and tourist offerings of the municipality and promotes the consumption of local products that are part of the identity and agricultural tradition of the island.” For attendees, the fair is an opportunity to learn firsthand about the potential of these products and to take home quality almonds and figs.
Musical closing and future projection
The day will culminate with performances by the folk group Taros and the youth group of the Island Music Board. The show Mano a mano, featuring Ciro Corujo, José Manuel Ramos, and Salvador Pérez, will provide the final touch. The fair not only aims to promote the products but also to inspire local farmers and entrepreneurs to continue investing in these crops.
Quintero added that “Dinamiza Rural encourages less populated municipalities to develop projects capable of mobilising their resources, supporting agricultural and fishing activities, and turning agricultural and gastronomic heritage into a future opportunity.” For the people of El Hierro, events like this are a window to the outside world and a firm step towards valuing their rich agricultural tradition.
