‘DINAGYANG FOODFEST IN AUGUST’: Iloilo City hosts inaugural Calle Real Night Market

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

The historic Calle Real Street in Iloilo City came alive with its first-ever night market, which began on August 16 and will continue from August 23 to 25 at Sunburst Park.

The event is part of the city’s Charter Month celebrations, offering a vibrant mix of food, arts, and entertainment. Local talents, including buskers, drag artists, and Saot Ilonggo folk dance winners, are set to perform throughout the event.

Former City Councilor Jose Efrain “Jay” Treñas III, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, emphasized the significance of the event in celebrating Iloilo City’s Charter Month. “It is only fitting that we commemorate this milestone with special events such as the Calle Real Night Market, where Ilonggos can come together and enjoy the best of what our beloved city has to offer,” he remarked.

He expressed gratitude to the local vendors for their participation, which contributed to the night market’s success.

The event’s kick-off was graced by Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. Chairperson Rito Carlos “Judgee” Peña, street food advocate Chef Cidj Jalandoni, and Iloilo Hotels, Resorts, and Restaurants Association President Happy Abenir.

The opening program featured performances by Tribu Pan-ay, the grand champion of Aliwan Fiesta 2024 and the Dinagyang Tribe Competition 2024 winner.

From August 16 to 18, over 70 food and non-food kiosks transformed Guanco, Mapa, and Peralta Streets into bustling hubs for dining and shopping from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Executive Assistant for Special Projects Leny Ledesma highlighted the night market as an immersive experience that aligns with Iloilo City’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

Ledesma described the event as a celebration of food, faith, family, festivals, fashion, fun, and friends, themed “Celebrating the 87th Charter Day Through an Ilonggo Feast.”

Pyt Trimañez of the Rotary Club of La Paz also announced the launch of Mayor Jerry Treñas’ Dinagyang Hala Bira Iloilo Marathon 2025.

One of the attendees, Kathleen, shared her experience: “It was nice and lively, just like Dinagyang. I hope they continue doing this,” she told Daily Guardian.

Another attendee who works in the city highlighted the diverse food offerings, saying, “It’s great to have a place to visit near downtown in the evening. At least if you’re out at night, you have somewhere to eat.”

Meanwhile, Sam, who attended with her family, appreciated the entertainment, stating it’s a great family-friendly event. “I’m glad we came out to experience it,” he expressed.