BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The vibrant Calle Real Night Market is set to make a grand comeback with its highly anticipated “Christmas Edition,” scheduled for November 15 to 17 along JM Basa Street, City Proper district.
The night market, running from 5 p.m. to 12 midnight, promises a festive experience filled with entertainment, shopping, and cultural showcases, drawing locals and tourists alike.
This Christmas edition aims to build on that success, creating a festive atmosphere as this southern city enters the holiday season.
The decision to host the event in November, rather than December, is strategic, according to Architect Wilfredo Sy Jr., Technical Lead for Events at the MICE Center.
“The Christmas season in the Philippines traditionally starts in the ‘ber’ months. Hosting the night market in November allows us to tap into the early festive spirit and the availability of 13th-month bonuses, while avoiding the busy schedule of December’s Christmas parties. This ensures a better turnout and maximizes visitor engagement,” he said.
The three-night event is packed with a variety of performances and activities aimed at offering a memorable experience for all attendees:
* Day 1 (November 15) – folk dance performance, launch of Iloilo City’s future events, caroling performances, and acoustic night
* Day 2 (November 16) – Chef’s Baking Demo featuring local culinary experts, busking performances with talented street musicians, and band night showcasing local music groups
* Day 3 (November 17) – street performances and Christmas Dog Show for pet lovers and families; Dinagyang Ilomination performance, highlighting Iloilo’s rich cultural heritage; drag show, adding a touch of contemporary entertainment; and busking performances to conclude the night with lively street music
The Calle Real Christmas Night Market is expected to attract even more participants and visitors than the August edition, which drew an estimated 15,000 attendees.
Architect Sy expressed optimism about surpassing that number, highlighting the event’s potential to boost the local economy by supporting small businesses, vendors, and performers.
To accommodate the influx of visitors and ensure public safety, rerouting plans will be implemented throughout the three-night event. The city government has coordinated with the traffic management office to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
The Calle Real Night Market was first introduced by the Iloilo City Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibits (MICE) Center last August during the Iloilo City Charter Day celebration. The concept was well-received, transforming the iconic street into a bustling night market filled with local vendors, food stalls, and live performances, providing a boost to the local economy and enhancing the city’s nightlife./PN
