CAPIZ — In celebration of the rich culture and traditions of the Chinese community, the inaugural Chinese New Year Night Market opened in front of the Provincial Capitol on February 19, drawing crowds of food lovers and festival-goers.
The special night market quickly gained attention as a culinary destination, offering a wide array of traditional Chinese delicacies.
Visitors indulged in various types of hopia, the flaky pastry filled with sweet bean paste in flavors such as mung bean, ube, and pandan. Tikoy—the well-loved sticky rice cake known for its chewy texture and sweet taste—was also a highlight and a staple in many families’ New Year traditions.
Also featured was machang, a savory sticky rice dish filled with meat and wrapped in bamboo leaves.
Food stalls bustled with customers sampling different styles of siomai, Hong Kong-style noodles, and assorted dim sum, providing an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine. Beef and pork bao, fluffy steamed buns stuffed with seasoned fillings, emerged among the crowd favorites.
Adding to the diverse menu were unique offerings such as cara beef mien, known for its flavorful broth and tender beef slices; bundak, a local grilled delicacy; and samyang omelette, a spicy noodle omelet. Crispy spring rolls with savory fillings further enriched the market’s food selection.
To enhance the festive atmosphere, organizers set up a dedicated photobooth where guests could capture memorable moments against vibrant backdrops.
Stalls selling lucky charms, crystals, and symbols believed to bring good fortune also drew strong interest, reflecting their cultural significance during the New Year celebration.
Local entrepreneurs arranged dining areas to provide a comfortable experience for shoppers, encouraging them to sit and enjoy the wide variety of dishes showcasing Chinese culinary artistry. The market buzzed with laughter and lively conversations as residents and visitors alike joined the celebration.
The Night Market attracted not only Capiz residents but also foreign visitors eager to experience the festivities and cultural exchange.
The event was organized by the Provincial Government of Capiz under the leadership of Governor Fredenil H. Castro, in partnership with the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office and the Filipino-Chinese community in Capiz.
Organizers said the Night Market successfully highlighted the Chinese community’s rich culinary heritage while fostering unity and cultural appreciation among attendees./PN
