The second run of “Calle Real Night Market” set for Nov. 15 to 17, promises more leisure, strolling, shopping, and eating as the holiday season picks up.

The night market, Christmas edition, is a celebration of local heritage culture, arts, music, and gastronomy, Architect Wilfredo Sy Jr., technical lead for events of this city meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) center, said during a press conference on Monday.

The first night market in August was designed to showcase the city’s culture, rich gastronomy and heritage, Sy said.

“Following the demand of participants, we have decided to do a Christmas edition,” he added.

The night event along Calle Real, Iloilo City’s heritage zone, will gather ambulant vendors, Mercado lokal composed of local producers and farmers; Iloilo Hotel, Resorts and Restaurant Association; barbecue stalls and non-food vendors like those in retail, apparel, henna, and fashion stuff.

“Aside from the food participant, we have also targeted street performers to celebrate, not just the culinary side of it. Artists, musicians, dancers, we also give them a platform to hold the stage or showcase their talents,” Sy added.

Sy said it is a Christmas event since Filipinos start to celebrate once the ‘ber months come in. It is also a part of their strategy since it coincides with the release of bonuses and salaries.

He added Christmas parties are everywhere during December so they may not be able to fully maximize the attendance if the event is held that month.

As early as 5 p.m., the vendors can already start selling and are supposed to end at midnight.

Sy assured they would also be sitting down with concerned parties to discuss prices and make it a bit friendly and reasonable.

The first night market on Aug. 16 gathered an estimated crowd of around 15,000 based on the estimate of the Philippine National Police, with sales reaching over PHP1.27 million. (PNA)