The Iturraran Botanical Garden, nestled within the Pagoeta Natural Park, has reaffirmed its status as a central hub for collection plant aficionados. This fair in Aia has attracted thousands of people, ranging from expert buyers to curious newcomers eager to explore the fascinating world of exotic and hard-to-find botanical species.

This year's edition featured 47 nursery owners, a slight decrease from the 50 initially planned due to last-minute logistical issues. The organizers emphasized their focus on quality over quantity, aiming to avoid the "overbooking" experienced in previous editions. This specialization is crucial to the fair's appeal, distinguishing it from a conventional exhibition through its dedication to collection plants.

Each stall tells a unique story, offering a diverse range that includes orchids, camellias, tropical species, unique trees, arborescent ferns, and climbing plants rarely found outside specialized events like the one in Aia. Among the attendees are experienced buyers who arrive with specific lists, as well as those who are spontaneously drawn in and discover new passions. Some enthusiasts do not hesitate to invest significant amounts, spending thousands of euros in a single morning to enrich their collections.

The fair draws visitors from all over Spain, highlighting its importance in the botanical calendar. The audience is predominantly adult, with a notable presence of retirees, but also includes families with children fascinated by the unusual species. While some seek botanical rarities, others take the opportunity to enjoy meals at the tents and tables set up in the forest, before re-immersing themselves among the exuberance of camellias, bromeliads, and tropical plants from all continents.