From the opening of the stalls at 10:00 AM, the Plaza Grande de Santa María de Guía became the focal point of the Cheese Festival, attracting numerous visitors eager to taste and buy different varieties of artisanal cheese. Demand was so high that, in some cases, sales began even before the official start time.
Ten cheese dairies from various municipalities on the island, including Agaete, Valleseco, Agüimes, Gáldar, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, and La Aldea de San Nicolás, participated in the event. Among the varieties offered, 'flor' cheese was the most sought-after, known for its creaminess and intense flavor, made with vegetable rennet from thistle flower, and part of the island's only protected designation of origin, which includes Queso Flor de Guía, Queso de Media Flor de Guía, and Queso de Guía.
“"People are buying it like hotcakes."
The public turnout was constant, leading to long queues at the stalls. Some producers reported selling almost all their merchandise, going from carrying 300 kilograms of cheese to having only about ten left in a few hours. The event continued until 2:00 PM, with the expectation of selling out all production.
Attendees included both regular residents of Guía, who emphasized the importance of supporting local farmers, and new visitors from other towns like Telde, interested in learning about traditions and consuming local products. A regional deputy was also present, highlighting the festival's value in promoting local products and ensuring the sector's future.
In addition to cheese sales, the festival featured a XXVII Island Cheese Tasting ‘Queso Flor de Guía’ at the Casa de la Cultura, where a panel of experts evaluated 63 cheeses from the island in various categories. There were also pairing workshops at the Néstor Museum and a gastronomic exhibition at the Kasa de Guía, where students and teachers prepared dishes featuring local cheese. The day concluded with a concert by the group Bohemia Lanzarote in the Plaza Grande.
The celebration will continue on May 3rd in Montaña Alta, with a day dedicated to traditional gastronomy and craftsmanship.
