Pontevedra celebrates the 18th Meeting of Palilleiras
Bobbin lace is making a strong comeback in Galicia this spring. Pontevedra is preparing to host another edition of its well-established lacemakers' gathering, an event that unites tradition, skill, and community around the world of bobbin lace.
On April 26, 2026, the rhythmic sound of bobbin lace will set the pulse of the city in a day designed for both veteran artisans and those who are approaching this delicate textile art for the first time.
A meeting that weaves community
The 18th Pontevedra Lace Makers' Meeting will be held at the Pazo da Cultura, located on Alexandre Bóveda street, without a number. This spacious and bright venue will be transformed into a large collective workshop where hundreds of hands will shape lace, trimmings, and other lace pieces using cotton, linen, or silk thread.
Organized by the Pontevedra Lace Makers Association A Fieitiña, with the collaboration of the City Council, the event is much more than a technical meeting: it is a living celebration of know-how, the exchange of lace patterns, tricks with pins and the oral transmission that keeps the craft alive.
Throughout the day (time to be confirmed), groups from different parts of Galicia and other communities are expected to participate, making the meeting a small map of contemporary lacemaking in Spain.
Between bobbin lace, lace and creativity
Anyone who has ever attended a gathering like this knows that the atmosphere is just as important as the work itself. The rhythmic sound of the bobbins, the soft rustle of the thread being tightened, and the conversations between tables create a unique ambiance.
In Pontevedra, the meeting is also usually an opportunity to:
Share new chopped designs
Observe different techniques, from torchon to tulle
Exchange materials and recommendations
Get inspired by finished pieces and projects in progress
There will be no shortage of lovingly decorated globes, authentic works of art in themselves, nor of spontaneous demonstrations that arise when someone asks "how did you make that crossing?".
For beginners, it is also a friendly space to lose fear and discover that, behind every lace, there is patience, practice and a community willing to help.
How to participate
Registration for the event is available through the website www.afieitina.esDetails regarding prices, capacity, or possible additional activities are (to be confirmed), so it is advisable to consult directly with the organizers for the most up-to-date information.
It is recommended to register in advance, as these types of events tend to fill up quickly, especially in cities with such a long tradition as Pontevedra.
In addition to actively participating with your lace loom, it is also possible to come as a visitor to enjoy the atmosphere, observe the work of the lacemakers and approach bobbin lace from a more contemplative perspective.
Pontevedra in spring: a perfect plan
Strolls, squares and local flavor
Taking advantage of your visit to the conference to discover Pontevedra is practically a must. In April, the city is especially inviting: mild temperatures, lively streets, and a historic center that beckons you to stroll at your leisure.
Just a few minutes from the Pazo da Cultura, the historic center unfolds with squares like Plaça da Peregrina and Plaça da Leña, where it's easy to imagine lace as an integral part of the city's cultural fabric. The cobbled streets, arcades, and stone facades create the perfect setting to linger longer.
In terms of cuisine, Galician tradition reigns supreme with fresh produce and simple recipes: seafood, empanadas, and local wines. A break between lacemaking can become a complete sensory experience.
Tradition and craftsmanship
Galicia maintains a deep relationship with artisanal textiles, and although bobbin lace is not exclusive to the region, here it finds a devoted public and a remarkable generational continuity.
In local shops and markets, it's not uncommon to find handmade items or materials for beginners. For travelers with a passion for crafts, Pontevedra offers a perfect balance between living tradition and a welcoming atmosphere.
A thread that connects past and present
The 18th Pontevedra Lace Makers' Meeting is not just a date on the calendar: it's a reminder that bobbin lace continues to evolve without losing its roots. Each stitch, each crossing of threads, speaks of time, dedication, and identity.
Approaching this event is to be enveloped by an ancient rhythm that, nevertheless, remains fully relevant. Whether with the bobbins in hand or as a spectator, the experience promises to be as delicate as it is unforgettable.
Because in Pontevedra, for one day, the world is measured in threads… and in stories that intertwine.
