Colon Night Market is one of Cebu City’s beloved evening hubs. It’s a lively stretch of street vendors, local eats, bargains, and people watching under the night sky. It’s where locals mingle, food meets fashion, and the pulse of Cebu nightlife shows itself. However, since the magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck on September 30, 2025, parts of the city including Colon, were shaken, and some activities were affected.
This guide will help you experience Colon Night Market. What’s open, what to expect, and how to plan safely in the post quake period.
Plan Your Visit
The night market really comes alive between 6:00 PM and 10:30 PM when stalls light up and the crowd begins to flow. Give yourself at least 2 to 3 hours to stroll, eat, and shop more if you want to linger over food and finds. Keep in mind that since the September 30 earthquake, some vendors may still be recovering or reconstructing booths so expect occasional gaps or rerouted sections.
What To Do And See at Colon Night Market
As you wander the streets, sample local street food from grilled skewers to sweet treats while watching vendors skillfully prepare dishes before your eyes. Browse through colorful stalls offering clothes, accessories, gadgets, and souvenirs you’ll find quirky items and local craftsmanship side by side. Amid the bustle, observe the resilience of the community as some stalls may feature temporary setups, and part of the experience now is seeing how locals are rebuilding and adapting in real time.
Budget and Preparations
Bring enough cash in small bills since many vendors won’t accept digital payments and set a modest food and shopping budget between ₱200.00 to ₱600.00 for eats and more if you go all out. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and carry a flashlight or use your phone light for dim alleys, and have water or a light snack ready since lines or limited offerings may happen. Because of aftershocks and infrastructure inspections, stay alert, avoid unstable looking structures, and travel with a friend if possible.
Safety Tips
Before visiting, it’s best to check updates from local news outlets or Cebu City’s official pages to confirm which areas of Colon Night Market are open or under inspection. Respect any sections that have been cordoned off by authorities and if you can, support local vendors by purchasing even small items as they rebuild their livelihood. Be cautious when walking near older structures or narrow alleys that may show cracks or damage.If you feel any tremors, calmly move to an open space away from buildings until it’s safe to continue exploring.
Colon Night Market remains one of Cebu’s most vibrant expressions of local life. It’s a place where food, culture, and community come together under the glow of streetlights. Even after the recent earthquake, the spirit of the market endures reminding everyone that Cebu’s heart beats strongest through its people. Visiting now isn’t just about tasting street food or finding bargains, it’s also about supporting the city’s resilience and witnessing how Cebuanos continue to rise one stall at a time.
How To Get There?
Location: Cebu City, Cebu, Central Visayas, Philippines
- By Car: From Cebu City, take main routes like Osmeña Boulevard or V. Rama Avenue leading toward the downtown area. Then follow signs pointing to Colon Street. The market sits right along this historic stretch, so you’ll easily spot the rows of lights and vendors once you’re nearby. Parking can be limited during peak hours especially on weekends so it’s best to arrive early or park a few blocks away. After the recent earthquake, minor road inspections or rerouting may occur so check traffic advisories before your trip.
- By Commute: If you’re commuting, take a jeepney or bus bound for downtown Cebu or one that passes through Colon Street. Popular routes include 01K, 03B, or 04L jeepneys. Tell the driver to drop you off at Colon Night Market and from there, it’s just a short walk to the main stalls and street food areas. You can also book a Grab or taxi directly to “Colon Night Market” for convenience especially if you’re coming from farther spots like IT Park or Ayala Center. Fares vary depending on traffic and time but the ride typically takes 15 to 30 minutes from central Cebu.
