Taste, shop, and celebrate with locals: Guam's night markets are worth exploring

The island’s night markets offer the closest experience and true immersion to local life, culture, and community

- By MA.JASMINE TUAÑO

For Filipinos who love exploring markets when they travel, Guam has its own set of markets to visit throughout the week. Think of Divisoria’s treasure hunts, Mercato Centrale’s food stalls, or Bangkok’s Chatuchak buzz, but with the ocean breeze, island music, and fresh smell of barbecue in the air.

After a day of swimming in Tumon or touring Spanish ruins in Hagåtña or Guam’s southern villages, travelers can find a whole new way to experience the CHamoru culture. Different nights of the week, a market comes alive with food, music, and shopping. Here’s how to make the most of them.

Join the locals at the Chamorro Village Night Market

Every Wednesday, Guam’s capitol city transforms into a cultural night out frequented with locals and tourists of all ages. This is the market most visitors have on their list and for good reason: it’s part food trip, part cultural immersion, part family-friendly activity.

There are food stalls offering barbecue with red rice, mango shakes, empanadas, and freshly grilled fish. For pasalubong, this is where one can find keepsakes with meaning: sinåhi necklaces carved from shells, Ifit wood carvings, and handmade bags and jewelry.