MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Alas, the Holidays are upon us and with it comes the time for gift-giving and feasts. Enter Neighborgoods Christmas Market, a weekend fair that brings in the slow and mindful living in a hectic season.
Headquartered in Patio Pilar in Ermita, the fair is a confluence of food artisans and local crafters set against the backdrop of the rustic and charming slice of Spain in the city. Here’s what’s in store at the Neighborgoods Christmas Market happening from December 02 to 03:
Take a sit-down portrait session
Poignant and one-of-a-kind, the portraits taken by Jovel Lorenzo at Box Camera PH make use of a vintage street box camera inspired by the pioneer photographers in Europe. Skipping the film and producing the photos manually in minutes, Box Camera shoots portraits that cannot be replicated by commercial studios.
Get your gifts for friends and loved ones
A fair would not be complete without taking something home as a keepsake. Get your bejeweled and handmade Christmas ornaments from Cynthia’s Crafts; and mistletoe cactus or blue pine tree from Urban Farmer Manila.
For your younger gift-receivers, you can look at Peppa’s Plushies for stuffed toys and Nubeh Studio for cat-themed stickers, tote bags, and pet accessories.
If you want a touch of art in your home, Handblocked Boutique also offers painted tablecloths and pillows, while Studio Sug brings Mindanao weaves and textiles in their clothing line.
Grab a bite at the Secret Supper Club
Along the courtyard is the best-kept secret destination for vegan dinners. The Secret
Supper Club’s long table dining allows for a banquet gathering between friends and
strangers. Paired with Nadine Lustre’s French wine brand Maison Bukana, and you’re in
for a sunset treat.
Apart from the Secret Supper Club, Hippie Happy Bowls also offers plant-based bites
such as barbecue-pulled jackfruit tacos and Sichuan-style noodles. For the sweet tooth,
Hurno Manila has you covered with babka buns and protein bars; and De Allende
Artisan Bakes can fill you up with their Sacher cake, Brûlee Cheesecake, and Lemon
Squares.s
If you want something to take home, Nutty’s has selected variants so you can take home that all-natural peanut butter goodness and Kukidō has the gooiest palm-sized cookies.
Hang out at the Patio
An underrated and yet-to-be-popularized spot, Patio Pilar is a destination for those wanting to take the off-beaten path of Manila. Whether you’re inside the Casa or walking down the cobblestones for a date, the Patio is a stress-free zone once you step in it. So come take photos for the ‘gram, sip wine with a book in hand, or bring your fur-babies to shop with you.
Neighborgoods Christmas Fair is happening this weekend, December 02 to 03 from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm at Patio Pilar in Ermita. Admission is free and street parking is available.
