A celebration of threads: Habi Fiesta! weaves culture, craft and community

In every woven thread lies a story — of land, lineage and identity. This National Heritage Month, Habi Fiesta! returned to Araneta City with a vibrant showcase of the Philippines’ rich textile traditions, honoring the artisans who preserve indigenous craftsmanship one loom at a time.

From 16 to 18 May, the Gateway Mall 1 Activity Area transformed into a tapestry of colors, textures and cultural pride. Organized by the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) through Gateway Gallery, this three-day cultural fair brought together some of the country’s most respected weavers and weaving communities from Luzon to Mindanao, offering a rare opportunity for the public to experience heritage up close.

“Habi Fiesta! is our way of preserving and highlighting the rich and diverse weaving practices all over our archipelago,” said Diane Romero, executive director of JAAF. “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 on its second year, the event expanded its reach with a curated selection of artisans and weaving collectives. From the intricate abel of Abra to the delicate piña of Aklan, to the vibrant Yakan designs of Zamboanga, each handwoven creation carries the soul of a community and centuries-old knowledge passed down through generations.

This year’s exhibitors included Abel Kan Burda Ta Ka Itnegan and Namarabar Ethnic Products from Abra; Pinangga Ethnic Hand Embroidery from Metro Manila;Rhea Yang’s Art Shop and Project Payatas PH from Quezon City; La Herminia Piña Weaving from Aklan; Laga Weaving Creations from Kalinga; Abella’s House of Crafts and Sky Weavers from Ifugao; Angie’s Yakan from Zamboanga; Malaybalay Choice Handicrafts from Bukidnon; and Andrea Aswigue from Isabela.

A special highlight this year was a mini-exhibit of three gowns designed by renowned fashion icon Renee Salud. Known for his lifelong advocacy for Filipino craftsmanship, Salud’s pieces will offer a striking visual narrative of how traditional weaves can transcend into timeless fashion statements.

Visitors enjoyed live weaving demonstrations, which give them a glimpse into the precision, rhythm and artistry involved in creating handwoven textiles. To make heritage more accessible, Habi Fiesta! offers convenient digital payment options, including GCash and Maya, so guests can take home a piece of culture with ease.

Beyond being a market of crafts, Habi Fiesta! is a movement, an ongoing call to rediscover, honor and wear our heritage with pride. In a rapidly changing world, this celebration stands as a reminder that our roots are not meant to be forgotten but carried, thread by thread, into the future.

Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a fashion lover, or a proud Filipino looking to reconnect with your heritage, Habi Fiesta! offers a colorful invitation to celebrate the stories woven into our nation’s fabric.