By Xander Ledesma
The second edition of the “Calle Real Night Market” is set to take place from November 15 to 17, offering an extended celebration of leisure, shopping, food, and cultural experiences as the holiday season begins.
Architect Wilfredo Sy Jr., technical lead for events at the city’s meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) center, shared in a press conference on Monday that this Christmas edition will highlight local heritage, arts, music, and gastronomy.
The first night market, held in August, was designed to showcase the city’s culture, culinary offerings, and rich heritage, which proved to be a hit with participants. “Following the demand, we decided to host a Christmas edition,” Sy said.
The event will be held along Calle Real, Iloilo City’s heritage zone, and will feature a mix of ambulant vendors, local producers, and farmers from Mercado Lokal, as well as members from the Iloilo Hotel, Resorts, and Restaurant Association. Other stalls will include barbecue vendors and non-food sellers offering retail goods, apparel, henna, and more.
In addition to the food offerings, street performers including artists, musicians, and dancers will be featured, providing a platform for diverse local talents.
Sy noted that the timing of the event is intentional, as Filipinos begin their Christmas celebrations as early as the ‘ber months. The event also aligns with the release of bonuses and salaries, but Sy emphasized the importance of holding it before the busy December period when many Christmas parties may affect attendance.
Vendors are expected to begin selling as early as 5 p.m. each night, with the market running until midnight. To ensure accessibility, Sy assured that discussions with concerned parties would be held to keep prices reasonable and friendly for attendees.
The inaugural night market on August 16 attracted around 15, 000 people, according to estimates by the Philippine National Police, with sales surpassing PHP 1.27 million.