Baguio's Creative Festival Celebrates City's Artistic Growth

BAGUIO CITY—Artists and craftspeople in this mountain city launched the 2026 edition of the Ibagiw Creative Festival on Friday, highlighting Baguio's expanding role as a hub for contemporary and traditional arts. The festival comes as the city prepares to mark 10 years since receiving its Creative City designation, a recognition that has helped establish Baguio as a cultural anchor in the Philippines.

The United Nations awarded Baguio City its Creative City status in 2017, recognizing the community's distinctive folk arts and crafts heritage. The designation has become instrumental in promoting the city's artistic identity and attracting creatives from across the region.

The Ibagiw festival serves as a platform for local artists and craft makers to exhibit their work and connect with audiences and potential collaborators. The event underscores Baguio's transition from a traditional crafts center to a multifaceted creative destination with a growing contemporary art scene.

As the city approaches its 10th anniversary milestone in 2027, industry observers say the Ibagiw festival reflects Baguio's continued evolution as a creative economy leader in Southeast Asia. The festival has become an annual fixture in the city's cultural calendar, drawing participants and visitors interested in supporting local artistic talent.