Indigenous art fair returns to Asunción to celebrate Paraguay’s cultural heritage

The ORE Fair of Indigenous Art and Crafts is set to return to Asuncion, Paraguay, on April 25-26, reaffirming its role as one of the country’s most important platforms for showcasing and preserving Paraguay’s intangible cultural heritage.

Organized by the Paraguayan Institute of Crafts (IPA), the event aligns with the five pillars of the National Crafts Policy and aims to strengthen indigenous economies through fair trade and direct engagement with the public. Since its launch in 2019, the fair has been held annually in Asunción, focusing on boosting artisans’ productive capacity while reinforcing community organization.

This year’s edition will take place at the Staudt Cultural Space from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with free admission. Organizers expect participation from artisans representing more than 15 indigenous groups across the country.

Visitors will encounter a wide range of traditional crafts, including intricate basketry, feather art, textiles made from caraguatá fiber and cotton, and carvings crafted from palo santo wood. Each item reflects not only technical skill but also the cultural identity and ancestral knowledge of its makers.

Among the participating communities are the Nivaclé, Ayoreo, Mbyá Guaraní, Avá Guaraní, Qom, Ishir, Maká, Enxet Sur, Enlhet Norte, Sanapaná, Paî Tavyterã, Aché, Chamacoco and Manjui peoples. For many, the fair offers a vital opportunity to share traditions, stories and ways of life directly with a broader audience.

Beyond its commercial dimension, the ORE Fair also serves as a hub for cultural exchange. The program includes music, dance and public workshops designed to foster intercultural dialogue and promote recognition of Paraguay’s diverse indigenous heritage.