Habi Fiesta! brings vibrant weaving traditions to Gateway Mall

Weaving heritage takes the spotlight at Habi Fiesta!, a three-day celebration of Philippine textile traditions happening from 16 to 18 May at the Gateway Mall 1 Activity Area in Araneta City.

Organized by the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) through the Gateway Gallery, the event features master weavers and artisans from across the country, showcasing colorful handwoven fabrics and indigenous craftsmanship. Among the participants are textile makers from Abra, Iloilo, Kalinga, Zamboanga, Bukidnon, and Quezon City.

”Habi Fiesta! is our way of preserving and highlighting the rich and diverse weaving practice all over our archipelago,” Diane Romero, Executive Director of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation. “Through this event, we’re bringing the beauty and cultural importance of these products closer to patrons here at the heart of the metro.”

Now in its second year, Habi Fiesta! includes daily weaving demonstrations and an expanded roster of exhibitors. Guests can also use digital payments like GCash and Maya to purchase one-of-a-kind handmade pieces.

This year’s roster includes Abel Kan Burda Ta Ka Itnegan (Abra), Namarabar Ethnic Products (Abra), Pinangga Ethnic Hand Embroidery (NCR), Rhea Yang’s Art Shop and Project Payatas PH (from Quezon City), La Herminia Piña Weaving (from Iloilo), Laga Weaving Creations (from Kalinga Province), Abella’s House of Crafts (from Ifugao); Angie’s Yakan (from Zamboanga); Andrea Aswigue (from Isabela), Namarabar Ethic Crafts and Antiques (from Abra), and Malaybalay Choice Handicrafts (from Bukidnon).

The event is held in celebration of National Heritage Month and supports Gateway Gallery’s arts and culture programs, offering citygoers a chance to reconnect with Filipino traditions — one colorful thread at a time.