The holidays have officially arrived, and Cebu took the season of giving to the next level with Unwrappd Cebu—a vibrant Christmas market that united local creatives, entrepreneurs, and food enthusiasts under one festive roof.
Last December 7 and 8, Unwrappd Cebu transformed the Oakridge Studio in IT Center 3, Oakridge Business Park, into a bustling hub of seasonal joy and creativity. The two-day holiday showcase became a treasure trove for Cebuanos, offering unique finds, indulgent treats, and an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of giving.
With its thoughtfully curated mix of vendors, interactive activities, and vibrant holiday atmosphere, the event offered attendees an experience that was equal parts fun, festive, and heartwarming.
If you missed out, here’s a quick look back at how Unwrappd Cebu made the holiday season a little brighter and more magical.
What’s Behind the Magic?
At the heart of Unwrappd Cebu are its founders, Ericson Pacubas and Jacquilyn Chua, who crafted the event with one clear goal: to bring local entrepreneurs and shoppers together in a meaningful way. They dreamed of a space where Cebuano creativity could shine and holiday shoppers could find unique gifts while giving back to their community.
“We wanted this event to be a way for people to do their Christmas shopping, to find unique gifts—locally made products—that they can give to others but also give to themselves,” Ericson shares. “One of the things we wanted to do is gather all these small businesses, kind of get together, mingle with each other,” Jackie adds. And from the buzz around Oakridge Studio, it’s safe to say that vision hit all the right notes!
Who’s in For a Treat?
Unwrappd Cebu showcased an impressive array of local brands and artisans, each bringing their unique creations to the table. From handmade jewelry and bespoke homeware to eco-conscious fashion, the market was a treasure trove for thoughtful gift-givers.
Two key takeaways? Small businesses were given the perfect excuse to shine brighter than Christmas lights, while last-minute shoppers scored one-of-a-kind finds that celebrated Cebu’s creative spirit. It was a win-win for both entrepreneurs and holiday hunters! Talk about holiday magic, huh?
With a mouthwatering spread, food lovers found their happy place, too. Culinary stalls served up everything from freshly squeezed lemonade to aromatic coffee, perfect for sipping while exploring. For those with a sweet tooth, artisanal sweets and treats were on offer, alongside savory delights like steaming dim sum and hearty vegan dishes. The event truly had something for everyone, ensuring that no craving went unsatisfied, all while adding a delicious layer to the festive atmosphere.
Workshops in a Bazaar—Bizarre or Brilliant?
Unwrappd Cebu didn’t stop at shopping—it invited attendees to roll up their sleeves and join in on the fun. The event encouraged creativity and hands-on participation, making what seemed like an average bazaar feel refreshingly original.
“I think a lot of people were surprised that we had workshops for the bazaar itself,” Jackie says. “There were some people that were a bit skeptical as well,” she admits.
Workshops hosted by some of Cebu’s favorite local brands took things up a notch, offering a chance to make some memories (and cool stuff) along the way. Guests could try their hand at ukulele painting with Wagas, learn the art of ceremonial-grade matcha making with YourDailyGo, or craft their own leather goods with Elysee.
For the sweet tooths, there was a chocolate truffle-making session by Dahlia Chocolates, while Thirdwave Coffee took the latte art game to the next level. These interactive activities added a personal touch to the festivities, making holiday prep not just productive but super fun, too!
What’s Christmas Without Community?
The Oakridge Studio was dressed in its festive best, striking a balance between cozy and lively, and creating an unforgettable experience for all. But beyond the festive glitz, Unwrappd Cebu fostered a sense of community. The event’s emphasis on supporting local businesses and connecting creatives with consumers highlighted the importance of coming together during the holidays. It was a celebration not only of the season but also of Cebuano talent and ingenuity.
Unwrappd Cebu 2024 wasn’t just a market—it was a joyful celebration of creativity, community, and holiday spirit. For two unforgettable days, it brought the city together in a shared appreciation for local talent and the magic of the season.
Follow @unwrappdcebu for more updates on future events, and don’t miss out on the next opportunity to shop, celebrate, and connect!
Photography Kyrra Kho
