Christmas Guide

Go Christmas Shopping Early in These Markets and Budget Spots

Beat the yuletide rush: shop for the holidays this October!

By: Eunice Sheene Fulgencio | October 02, 2020
Share this article
facebook-logo facebook
twitter-logo twitter

As of September 25, 2020, all stores are open and are implementing health protocols. Please check the social media page of your store of choice to see the safety measures it has in place.


christmas markets Manila

One look at the calendar and you’ll see that Christmas Day is a little more than eleven weeks away. That may still seem far away now, but 2018 has proven that the days pass faster than you realize. Those short eleven weeks will dwindle down into eight, then four, and before you know it, the holiday season will already be in full blast and Christmas shopping will be tedious, annoying, and very unenjoyable.

So while there’s still time, you should consider completing your shopping list. Advance Christmas shopping doesn’t only guarantee that you score the best finds, but you’ll also be more rational in selecting since you are in no rush. The metro is also full of shopping places that do not only sell items for cheap but are also well-ventilated, thus making your trip comfortable. Keep reading and see some of the best Christmas markets and budget malls in Manila.


1. Tiendesitas

Location: Ortigas Avenue corner E. Rodriquez Avenue, Pasig City
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM


christmas markets Manila

Tiendesitas houses more than 450 stalls in total.

Image: Tiendesitas Facebook Page

Tiendesitas, which literally means “a collection of little stores” in Spanish, is composed of four buildings which sell an assortment of fashion wear, accessories, and novelty items to handicrafts and other locally-made products. An area in the store is also dedicated to hold all types of exhibits and trade shows which are shown weekly. Tiendesitas also offers a free admission show featuring OPM bands every Saturday evening for the entire month of October.



2. Greenhills Shopping Center

Location: Ortigas Avenue, San Juan City
Operating hours:
Sunday to Thursday, 10 AM to 9 PM
Friday and Saturday, 10 AM to 10 PM


christmas markets Manila

Greenhills also hosts a weekend market every Saturday from 5 AM to 12 noon.

Image: Greenhills Official Facebook Page

Greenhills lets you browse and shop budget-friendly items normally found in places like Divisoria and Quiapo while in a comfortable and well-kept location. Aside from housing known commercial brands, the shopping center also has bazaar stalls that sell clothing, shoes, and accessories. Greenhills is also famous for selling replicas of luxury bag, shoes, and watch brands, among others.


3. St. Francis Square

Location: Donna Julia Vargas Avenue, corner Bank Drive, Mandaluyong City
Operating hours: Every day, 10 AM to 9 PM


christmas markets Manila

St. Francis Square also has an auditorium for concerts and shows.

Image: St. Francis Square Website

Conveniently located between The Podium and SM Megamall, St. Francis Square is a budget mall that first opened its doors to the public in 2005. It houses over 400 stalls that sell RTW (ready-to-wear) clothes, shoes, accessories, and bags. The tiangge (bazaar)-mall also has a selection of meals from fast food chains to home-cooked meals at the third floor food court.


4. Tutuban Center

Location: Claro M. Recto Avenue, Manila
Operating hours: Every day, 9 AM to 12 MN


christmas markets Manila

Tutuban Center also has a rich history as Bonifacio’s shrine is right across the main station’s entrance.

Image: Tutuban Center Facebook Page

When “bargain shopping” is mentioned, it is almost impossible not to think about Divisoria. But since the area is notorious for shoplifters (especially this time of year), doing your Christmas shopping there could be too risky. Luckily, Tutuban Center, which is located within the area, offers a safer and more convenient shopping experience. Within it is an area called The Prime Block where footwear, bags, accessories, and RTW clothes could be found. Meanwhile, the Main Station houses restaurants, retail stores, and service shops.



5. Starmall Alabang

Location: South Super Highway, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Operating hours: Every day, 9 AM to 8 PM


christmas markets Manila

Starmall Alabang used to be known as Metropolis Star Alabang.

Image: Starmall Alabang Facebook Page

For the shoppers in the south, Starmall Alabang offers a more affordable shopping experience for a place that could technically be considered as a mall. What makes Starmall Alabang stand out from the others, however, is the selection of retail stores on the second floor which offer cheap clothes and shoes. Air-conditioned ukay-ukay shops (thrift stores) could also be found within the area.




Contrary to popular belief, it is never too early to start Christmas shopping. When preparing for the holidays, the saying “no time like the present” could not be any truer.


Which of these Christmas markets in Manila are you planning to go to for your advance holiday shopping? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!



This article was originally published in Yoorekka on October 05, 2018.
Newsletter Banner
author
About Eunice Sheene Fulgencio
Eunice knew that she’d be writing for the rest of her life from a very young age. Naturally introverted, she is selective with how she uses her time and who she spends it with. Has a penchant for sweet treats, sentimental proses, and online personality quizzes. A true-blue INFJ.
Learn more stories on:
Location Tags:
Disclaimer: All articles in the Consumers Magazine of Yoorekka are for general information and entertainment purposes only. Although careful research has been made in writing them, Yoorekka does not make any warranty about the completeness and accuracy of all information presented in our articles. Our content is not intended to be used in place of legal, medical, or any professional advice.
MORE STORIES AROUND THE PHILIPPINES
Follow Us On:
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Instagram
Home
Advertise
About Us
Privacy Policy
Register My Store
HTML Sitemap
Submit My Favorites
XML Sitemap
Terms and Conditions
FAQ Page
Copyright 2013 - 2024 ShoppersGuide Marketing Inc. All Rights Reserved
This website uses cookies to enhance the user experience. For more information please see our privacy policy