Night Market (Harrison Rd)

Exploring the Baguio City Night Market

Baguio City is known for its vibrant atmosphere that comes alive from sunset to sunrise, with one of its most popular attractions being the night market. Operating since 2007, the market was initially started by ukay-ukay vendors, selling secondhand clothing. Baguio has become famous for these secondhand shops, offering visitors the chance to find pre-loved items at affordable prices, especially for those skilled in bargaining.

The market typically operates from 9:00 PM until well past midnight, turning a portion of Harrison Road, a major national road, into a bustling marketplace. This area, normally a thoroughfare, transforms into a colorful scene of activity, with vendors selling a wide variety of goods. While it started with secondhand items, the market now also features knock-off products alongside the pre-loved items.

Unlike traditional shopping malls, the night market is an open-air venue where each vendor has a small, often cramped stall to display their goods. Visitors should be prepared for crowded conditions, with narrow spaces that may feel claustrophobic. It’s a lively environment where pushing and jostling are common, so it’s advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and stay alert.

The night market benefits both the vendors and the city, with the Baguio government charging a minimal fee of just PHP 50 for each vendor. This low cost is offset by the large number of customers the market attracts, with millions of pesos reportedly generated monthly from these operations.

The market offers a wide array of products, ranging from clothing and accessories to gadgets and toys. Visitors can find items for all ages, from babies to adults, with goods such as caps, clothes, bags, shoes, books, and electronics. There are also a variety of souvenirs, including woven wallets, dream catchers, and keychains, making it a great spot for picking up unique gifts.

In addition to shopping, the night market is a place where people can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city’s night life. While some may not shop extensively, the vibrant atmosphere makes it an excellent destination for those interested in window shopping, taking photos, or simply experiencing the local culture.

Food stalls are another major attraction of the night market, located at both ends of the market. These food stalls offer a range of street foods, with many visitors drawn to the variety of local and international dishes available. The food section has grown over the years, initially limited to one end of the market, but now expanded to accommodate more vendors. In the past, there were concerns regarding sanitation, especially with vendors who cooked their food on-site, but the situation has since improved, and the food stalls are now a significant draw for visitors, especially students.

The market also provides an affordable space for entrepreneurs. Aspiring business owners can apply for a stall to set up their goods, with the main challenge being the transportation of products to and from the market. Despite this, it remains an accessible option for those looking to start a business without the overhead costs of rent.

As one of the city’s most beloved attractions, the Baguio City night market continues to serve as both a popular shopping destination and an important livelihood opportunity for locals. It has grown to become a key part of the city's nightlife, offering a unique and affordable shopping experience for both residents and tourists alike.