Top 3 Things You Can’t Miss at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair
The rich flavors, heritage weaves, and artisanal crafts of Negros are set to take center stage once again as HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair makes its much-anticipated debut at SM Aura’s SMX Convention Center from September 23 to 28, 2025. Known as the longest-running provincial trade fair in the country, this annual celebration brings together the best of Negrense creativity and craftsmanship under one roof.
More than just a shopping and dining destination, HIMBON is a cultural experience—an invitation to savor, discover, and celebrate the stories of Negros told through food, fashion, and design. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashionista, or a lifestyle enthusiast, here are the top three experiences you simply can’t miss at this year’s Negros Trade Fair.
1. Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs
Food always takes the spotlight at HIMBON, and this year, two rising Negrense chefs are leading the charge with world-class menus that proudly showcase local ingredients.
Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati)
Trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, Chef Cara is known for fusing bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary roots. Guests at the media launch got a taste of her inventive style with dishes like uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pavé, proving her flair for transforming familiar flavors into extraordinary dining experiences.
Chef Luis Locsin (Private Dining Specialist)
CIA-trained and globally seasoned with stints at Jean Georges NYC and luxury resorts in Bali, Chef Luis has made a name for himself in exclusive private dining. At the launch, his charcuterie spread featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté, pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio stracciatella with olive oil and confit tomatoes—a true showcase of Negrense pride elevated to international standards.
From savory to sweet, visitors to HIMBON can expect to indulge in an array of artisan delicacies, signature Negrense recipes, and gourmet innovations that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.
2. Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories
Negros is home to a proud weaving tradition, and HIMBON transforms these age-old crafts into stylish modern fashion. Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and tropical fibers are reimagined into chic, wearable pieces perfect for today’s wardrobe.
Paired with statement jewelry and artisanal accessories, these creations demonstrate how heritage and modernity can walk hand-in-hand down the runway. For fashion lovers, HIMBON is the perfect place to shop unique, sustainable, and proudly Filipino designs that tell a story with every stitch.
3. Handcrafted Home Finds & Iconic Pasalubong
Looking to add warmth and character to your living space? HIMBON’s artisan home section features elegant pandan, bamboo, and buri pieces crafted into furniture, baskets, and décor items that highlight timeless Negrense craftsmanship.
And of course, no visit is complete without bringing home the flavors of Negros. Stock up on Virgie’s homemade mango tarts, Mumshies’ delicacies, and Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod—perfect as pasalubong or to enjoy at home. From sweet treats to savory classics, every bite is a taste of Negros tradition.
Experience More at HIMBON
Beyond the shopping and dining, HIMBON offers an atmosphere that celebrates the warmth of Negrense hospitality. Sip on Don Papa rum, sample locally crafted wines, and enjoy live acoustic music that fills the venue with a laid-back, festive vibe. The fair also highlights Negros as a travel destination, with showcases of heritage haciendas, pristine beaches, and food tours—inspiring your next getaway.
Every artisan booth is Instagram-worthy, making it the perfect backdrop for your #HimbonMoments. At its core, HIMBON means “to gather”—a gathering of tradition, innovation, and community spirit that celebrates everything that makes Negros truly special.
Save the Date
🗓 September 23–28, 2025
📍 SMX Convention Center, SM Aura
Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair.
More than just a shopping and dining destination, HIMBON is a cultural experience—an invitation to savor, discover, and celebrate the stories of Negros told through food, fashion, and design. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashionista, or a lifestyle enthusiast, here are the top three experiences you simply can’t miss at this year’s Negros Trade Fair.
1. Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs
Food always takes the spotlight at HIMBON, and this year, two rising Negrense chefs are leading the charge with world-class menus that proudly showcase local ingredients.
Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati)
Trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, Chef Cara is known for fusing bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary roots. Guests at the media launch got a taste of her inventive style with dishes like uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pavé, proving her flair for transforming familiar flavors into extraordinary dining experiences.
Chef Luis Locsin (Private Dining Specialist)
CIA-trained and globally seasoned with stints at Jean Georges NYC and luxury resorts in Bali, Chef Luis has made a name for himself in exclusive private dining. At the launch, his charcuterie spread featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté, pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio stracciatella with olive oil and confit tomatoes—a true showcase of Negrense pride elevated to international standards.
From savory to sweet, visitors to HIMBON can expect to indulge in an array of artisan delicacies, signature Negrense recipes, and gourmet innovations that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.
2. Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories
Negros is home to a proud weaving tradition, and HIMBON transforms these age-old crafts into stylish modern fashion. Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and tropical fibers are reimagined into chic, wearable pieces perfect for today’s wardrobe.
Paired with statement jewelry and artisanal accessories, these creations demonstrate how heritage and modernity can walk hand-in-hand down the runway. For fashion lovers, HIMBON is the perfect place to shop unique, sustainable, and proudly Filipino designs that tell a story with every stitch.
3. Handcrafted Home Finds & Iconic Pasalubong
Looking to add warmth and character to your living space? HIMBON’s artisan home section features elegant pandan, bamboo, and buri pieces crafted into furniture, baskets, and décor items that highlight timeless Negrense craftsmanship.
And of course, no visit is complete without bringing home the flavors of Negros. Stock up on Virgie’s homemade mango tarts, Mumshies’ delicacies, and Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod—perfect as pasalubong or to enjoy at home. From sweet treats to savory classics, every bite is a taste of Negros tradition.
Experience More at HIMBON
Beyond the shopping and dining, HIMBON offers an atmosphere that celebrates the warmth of Negrense hospitality. Sip on Don Papa rum, sample locally crafted wines, and enjoy live acoustic music that fills the venue with a laid-back, festive vibe. The fair also highlights Negros as a travel destination, with showcases of heritage haciendas, pristine beaches, and food tours—inspiring your next getaway.
Every artisan booth is Instagram-worthy, making it the perfect backdrop for your #HimbonMoments. At its core, HIMBON means “to gather”—a gathering of tradition, innovation, and community spirit that celebrates everything that makes Negros truly special.
Save the Date
🗓 September 23–28, 2025
📍 SMX Convention Center, SM Aura
Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair.
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