This year, Mandëko Kito returns as one of the highlights of the 2024 Ibagiw Creative City Festival, promising an experience that’s both personal and meaningful. From November 28 to December 1, the UP Baguio Museo Kordilyera grounds will come alive with the sounds, textures, and stories of Baguio’s artisans. Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., the fair offers more than handmade and handcrafted goods—an invitation to learn, create, and connect.
A Fair That Feels Like a Workshop
Mandëko Kito has always been more than a marketplace, and this year it’s stepping even further into that role. Instead of simply watching artisans at work, visitors will have the chance to get hands-on with the process. From weaving to carving and crafting, you can experience firsthand the skill, patience, and knowledge that go into every piece.
As Rommel Marcelo, President of the Baguio Arts and Crafts Collective, Inc. (BACCI), shares: “The rationale behind this year’s theme of an immersive and experiential crafts fair is to have a more active kind of trade fair— that goes beyond the usual selling and crafting. Mandëko Kito has pioneered high-quality outputs and has been recognized and institutionalized here in Baguio. And thus, we should always create something new for our visitors. DIY crafting is not only the experience but the understanding of the skills, knowledge, and intricacies of our creatives’ individual craft.”
BACCI’s vision for this year’s fair emphasizes connection and education. At Mandëko Kito, visitors are not just creating with their hands—they’re engaging with the very essence of Baguio’s artistry. Sitting alongside an artisan, trying to replicate their techniques, gives a glimpse of the time, care, and ingenuity that go into each craft.
Honoring the Old, Celebrating the New
Mandëko Kito, on it’s 7th run, has become a symbol of Baguio’s creative spirit. Over the years, it has gained recognition for its high standards and has been instrumental in supporting the city’s artisans. But what makes it special is how it continues to grow and change.
This year’s fair focuses on creating fresh experiences for visitors. It’s not just about buying crafts—it’s about engaging with them. Whether you’re learning a new skill or listening to an artisan’s story, there’s always something new and interesting to discover.
Beyond Souvenirs
When you visit Mandëko Kito, you’re not just walking through a market—you’re stepping into a community. The Museo Kordilyera grounds will hum with activity as artisans share not only their work but also the passion and history behind it.
Imagine shaping a piece of wood into a small carving or weaving a few rows into a colorful tapestry. You’re not just making something to take home; you’re taking part in something larger. It’s this sense of connection that makes Mandëko Kito special—every object carries the story of the person who made it, and now, the story of the person who learned how it’s done.
An Invitation to Be Part of the Story
Mandëko Kito has always been about more than commerce. It’s about culture, creativity, and community. This year, it’s inviting you to take a more active role—whether you’re crafting, asking questions, or simply listening.
From November 28 to December 1, stop by the Museo Kordilyera grounds. Let the artisans share their world with you, and don’t be afraid to dive right in. Mandëko Kito isn’t just a place to visit—it’s an experience to carry with you long after the festival ends.
Follow BACCI and Ibagiw Creative City Festival on Facebook for more information.
