From tradition to innovation: Florence’s Handicrafts Fair turns 90

Florence is preparing to host the 90th edition of the International Handicrafts Fair (MIDA), one of the longest-running events of its kind in Europe. The fair will take place at the Fortezza da Basso, a major exhibition and conference venue near the city’s main train station, from 25 April to 3 May 2026, bringing together artisans, designers and institutions from Italy and abroad. 

A historic event with an international scope

First launched in 1931, the International Handicrafts Fair has developed into a key platform for showcasing traditional and contemporary craftsmanship. Organisers expect around 500 exhibitors this year, representing about 30 countries across Europe, Africa and Asia, confirming the event’s strong international profile. 

The exhibition covers a wide range of sectors, including fashion accessories, jewellery, home décor, design objects, artistic crafts and wellness products. The aim is to present both traditional techniques and innovative approaches, reflecting how the sector is evolving while maintaining its roots.

The fair typically attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year—more than 65,000 in 2025—ranging from industry professionals to tourists and residents interested in craftsmanship and design. 

Focus on skills, innovation and future challenges

Alongside the exhibition areas, the 2026 edition will include a programme of conferences and training events addressing key issues for the sector. These include generational turnover in craft professions, the development of new skills, and the relationship between education and employment.

One of the central themes is the transmission of knowledge from older artisans to younger generations, seen as a critical issue for the sustainability of the sector. Discussions will also explore new European rules on geographical indications for craft and industrial products, which aim to protect and promote local production systems. 

An international conference organised by the European Crafts Alliance will examine the link between craftsmanship and wellbeing, highlighting the social and cultural role of manual practices in contemporary society.

Exhibitions, workshops and immersive activities

In addition to the main exhibition, visitors will be able to take part in hands-on workshops, live demonstrations and guided tours. These activities are designed to offer direct contact with materials and techniques, from ceramics and leatherwork to embroidery and wood carving.

A special exhibition at the Cavaniglia pavilion will retrace the 90-year history of the fair through archival materials, photographs and original documents, showing how the event has evolved from a local initiative into an international reference point. 

Other sections will focus on specific areas such as contemporary jewellery, restoration techniques and regional craft traditions. More than 100 local companies are expected to take part in live demonstrations, allowing visitors to observe production processes in real time.

Strong institutional presence

The 2026 edition has been included in the official calendar of events linked to Italy’s National Made in Italy Day, promoted by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy. Institutional stands will provide information on policies and tools supporting craftsmanship, innovation and production chains.

The Ministry of Education will also be present with a project involving Italian technical and hospitality schools, aimed at promoting training and skills development among younger generations. 

A sector with economic weight

The fair highlights the broader importance of craftsmanship in Italy, where the sector includes about 1.25 million businesses and employs more than 2.6 million people. This represents a significant share of the national economy, even in a challenging economic context. 

Practical information

The International Handicrafts Fair will run from 25 April to 3 May at the Fortezza da Basso. The venue is within walking distance of Santa Maria Novella railway station and is regularly used for major trade fairs and public events in Florence.

The full programme, including workshops and conferences, is expected to be available on the event’s official website. Some activities require advance booking, while general access is open to the public with a ticket (8 euros full price, 6 euros reduced ticket, 12 euros 4-day weekday pass).

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