What to Expect at the International Crafts Fair’s 90th Edition

Costume jewelry by Drago di Sem

The 90th edition of the International Crafts Fair is taking place in 2026 from April 25 to May 3 at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence, from 10 am to 8 pm. Organized by Firenze Fiera in collaboration with major institutions and trade associations, there is free entry from 8 to 10 pm (except for May 3, where the Fair will close at 8 pm). There are 500 exhibitors from Italy and around the world, panels on training for generational craftsmanship, and a myriad of immersive events including experiential workshops and guided tours.

MIDA is Italy’s longest-running fair and one of the oldest in Europe, showcasing the best of Italian and international craftsmanship. Their key values are tradition, innovation, sustainability, ethics, and inclusion. Last year, in 2025, the Fair attracted over 60,000 visitors.

The Crafts Fair will feature artisans including Silvia Logi’s artworks (Italy) well known for her mixed-media mosaic art combining recycled and natural elements; specialists in Italian goldsmithing techniques; and Kerstin Racuh (Tuscany/International), a ceramic artist specializing in raku and stoneware.

Decorative woodworking

Stands are located according to category in the following sections: handmade fashion and accessories: artistic craftsmanship comprised sculpture, painting, ceramics, blown glass and restoration; international crafts; contemporary design, including furniture and home furnishings; publishing that utilizes traditional printing and binding methods; gift items, textiles, knick knacks and musical instruments; jewellery created with precious metals and gems plus costume jewelry; cosmetics and wellness products in addition to products by food artisans including Italian culinary ingredients and wine (comprising olive oils, cheeses, fresh pastas and conserves) as well as food, beverages and spices displayed and sold by international exhibitors.

Special events include:

April 27: There will be a conference on education and skills for artistic craftsmanship featuring Undersecretary Paola Frassinetti.

April 29: “EU CIGI CAPITALS TOUR” will focus on the new European protection system for Geographic Indications for industrial and craft products.

April 30:  the 2026 European Crafts Alliance Annual Conference, titled “Crafting Wellbeing” for 2026 will be held. 

April 27-30: guests can visit the 10th Art and Restoration Show in the Arsenale pavilion, which includes an entire day, April 29, dedicated to a presentation of restorations in Florence and Tuscany financed by Friends of Florence (Sala Rosa, 10 am – 3:45 pm). 

“The Fair on Display”: this exhibition in the Cavaniglia pavilion illustrates 90-year history of MIDA through archival documentation, photography, and cinematography.

I-DOME: A faithful reproduction of Brunelleschi’s Dome in the central square in conjunction with an emotional video journey through Tuscan craftsmanship.

Workshops and Tours: There will be free experiential workshops and guided tours of the Fortezza’s underground passages throughout the Fair.

“Corte dei Sapori” (Court of Flavors): This event will take place in the Northwest Square, promoting Tuscan agro-food excellence. There will be street food and live music/DJ sets every evening from 7 to 10 pm until May 2.  (H.D.)