MaArte Fair 2025: What to Expect at the Philippines’ Premier Artisan Showcase

The highly anticipated MaArte Fair 2025 returns from August 7 to 10 at The Peninsula Manila, bringing together over 160 local artisans and designers in a showcase of Filipino creativity, heritage, and craftsmanship.

Organized by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. (MFPI), this year’s theme — KKK: Kaalaman, Kultura, at Kaartehan — highlights the knowledge, cultural memory, and distinct flair that define Filipino-made works.

A Fair That Gives Back

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MaArte is not just a fair — it’s also the flagship fundraiser of MFPI. All proceeds go toward funding grants for heritage preservation, museum exhibitions, research, and mentorship programs across the country.

In 2025, the foundation is supporting nine cultural projects, its highest number yet. These include:

A retrospective on artist-activist Imelda Cajipe Endaya
A curatorial mentorship program for emerging museum professionals
The Carlos “Botong” V. Francisco Studio-Museum in Angono
Documentation of the abaca industry and indigenous textile traditions

What to Expect at MaArte Fair 2025

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Held throughout the Rigodon Ballroom, function rooms, The Conservatory, and deluxe rooms of The Peninsula, the fair transforms the hotel into a dynamic space for local design and storytelling.

Here’s what visitors can look forward to:

Over 160 curated exhibitors, with 40 first-time participants
Traditional and contemporary works across fashion, accessories, textiles, home décor, and now, food and beverage
Live artisan demonstrations and interactive product experiences

This year marks the fair’s first time welcoming culinary artisans, offering treats from brands like Palaweño Brewery, La Mesa Mead, and perfumer Oscar Mejia III, whose custom scent for MaArte draws from the allure of South Sea pearls.

Filipino Craft, Reimagined

MaArte’s lineup features respected and rising names alike:

Happy Andrada and Yssa Studio bring bold, modern Filipiniana
Raquel’s Piña Cloth debuts handwoven textiles embroidered with native insects
Alexie Nethercott showcases Marikina-made footwear with handcrafted embellishments
Neil Felipp returns with his globally recognized minaudières
ArtJoy’s Lakbay Collection draws from Philippine landscapes using recycled and repurposed materials

From handwoven piña to sculpted jewelry, every piece reflects deep-rooted cultural narratives and modern design sensibilities. Each booth is a story of tradition, innovation, and intention.

Free Admission, Rich Experience

Admission is free and open to all throughout the 4-day event. With every purchase, guests not only support Filipino artisans directly but also contribute to MFPI’s nationwide heritage initiatives.

Whether you’re looking to collect handcrafted goods, explore cultural design, or discover new local talent, MaArte Fair 2025 offers a rare opportunity to celebrate Philippine artistry under one roof.

Will you be visiting MaArte this year? Which local brand or artisan are you most excited to discover?

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