Excitement is palpable in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for the imminent arrival of Pope Leo XIV on June 11th. The city is preparing for a massive Mass at the Gran Canaria Stadium, a historic event for which residents are seeking tangible mementos.

In a bazaar run by a Chinese family, Li Ying Li, the owner, has added a special line of products to her usual inventory for the occasion. An outdoor sign and the shop window advertise the sale of mugs, badges, fans, keychains, and scarves featuring the pontiff's face and the slogan 'Canarias welcomes you with its heart. 11/06/2026'.

The vendor, who has managed the shop for 23 years, explains that the idea came from a sales representative in China, where the Pope is not as widely known. The items are selling well, particularly among customers' older relatives. Cloth bags featuring the Pope's image against a Canarian sunset are the star product, and she has already had to reorder more due to high demand.

Li Ying Li emphasizes that the prices are affordable, ranging from 2.95 euros for magnets to seven euros for mugs and fans, aiming to be accessible to all budgets. Bracelets with a similar design will also be available soon.

Although initially unfamiliar with the Pope, the bazaar owner has caught the enthusiasm of her customers. 'It's something special for the Canary Islands, he is God's representative on Earth, and he is coming here,' she remarks. Her establishment will remain open during its usual hours during the visit, seizing the opportunity to offer these souvenirs from what she considers a 'historic' day for all Canarians.