Christmas is only a few weeks away and although some people have done their gift-shopping, many Filipinos usually wait until the last minute. This maybe because they do not have time to shop or they are looking for perfect and unique gifts for their loved ones.
Let Pilipinas Popcorn give you a rundown of bazaars and events in two of the country’s popular Christmas destinations, Metro Manila and Baguio.
Metro Manila Bazaars and Events
On the first weekend of December, several bazaars around the metro will open to shoppers. Some are small events while others are expected to draw in big crowds. According to GMA News, on December 3 and 4, the following smaller-scale bazaars will open: the Valle Verde 1 Christmas Bazaar Dec. 3 and the Paskuhan sa Pasig, which are both held in Pasig City. In Paranaque, a Celebrity Christmas Bazaar is happening in BF Homes, while Santa’s La Vista Bazaar will be done in La Vista, Quezon City.
The bigger bazaar events lined up for this coming weekend (Dec. 3 and 4) are the Noel Bazaar in Filinvest Alabang , and the 16th World Bazaar Festival at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. The Noel Bazaar is one of the biggest shopping events in Manila. This year, they will be holding bazaars in Mandaluyong City in November and Alabang City and Pasay City (SMX Convention Center) in December. The World Bazaar Festival runs until December 22.
Bazaar Trends: Support Local Artisans and Businesses
Although events are still dominated by big players, more bazaars are being organized to support local artisans and craftsmen and local businesses. They provide opportunities for local players who are mostly micro-entrepreneurs to showcase their products. One such community is the Katipunan Weekend Market – Christmas at Estancia. This is their special event for the holiday season. According to their Facebook page, they feature “the best of local products, arts & crafts, vintage finds, gourmet food and live music.” The community selects who will take part in the market. It is located in Estancia, Capitol Commons, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.
Another event in Quezon City happening on December 17 to 19 is the Pasko sa Maginhawa Year 2. Maginhawa being known as the Quezon City Food District will not only feature good eats but also gift items and accessories. It will be held at the Covered Court of Teachers Village East. In Makati, the Kindred Fair is also holding a Christmas Bazaar event. Dubbed as a “curated lifestyle bazaar” which also feature locally-made and locally-sourced products, it will be held on December 12 to 16 at the Glorietta Palm Drive.
Baguio City Bazaars and Events
On the first weekend of December (December 2 to 4), a Christmas Bazaar will be held at Ballroom 2 of Citylight Hotel, located in General Luna Road, Baguio City. Food, clothes, apparel, shoes and accessories will be on sale by local sellers. This will be followed by the Newtown Bazaar from December 5 to January 8, 2017. Both events are organized by Pieces By Reese.
On December 17 to 18, Artisans Weekend will happen at the Grounds in Scout Barrio, one of the city’s barangays. According to their Facebook page, this will be the first of its kind and is supported by the Department of Tourism. Live music from popular bands such True Faith will be one of the attractions. It will also feature a farmers market and local food for sale.
So whether you are spending Christmas in a big city like Metro Manila or heading north to Baguio, keep these events in mind so you can finish your Christmas shopping early.
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