The Living Thread: Toquilla Straw Weaving Exhibition & Workshop in Guayaquil
As part of a series of events organized in October 2025 by the Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural (INPC) to mark the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, this interactive event presents: a chronological display of toquilla hat evolution from 19th-century designs to contemporary fashion collaborations; tools and raw materials from different production regions; and video testimonials of weavers discussing cultural significance.
Daily 2-hour workshops (10am & 3pm) allow visitors to learn basic weaving techniques from masters, while hearing personal stories about this UNESCO-recognized craft. An adjacent pop-up market certified by the Fair Trade Organization enables direct purchases from artisan associations, with proceeds funding community training programs. Educational materials detail the hat’s journey from Ecuadorian fields to global recognition.
