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If you happen to be free this coming Sunday, November 15, you might want to drop by in Escolta, Manila to check out a fun happening taking place at the iconic First United Building.

Folktober is a community pop up event organized to support local businesses and artists affected by the months-long quarantine due to COVID-19.

Before the pandemic struck, the art deco building has a vibrant community thanks largely to the artists' start-up incubation space stationed on the ground floor dubbed Hub: Make Lab.

So the event is one way to rebuild and reenergized that creative community hushed by recent events.

Now, safety protocols will be observed and guests are required to wear face masks, face shields, sanitize their hands, and practice social distancing throughout the festivity.

With that out of the way, here are five reasons to join in on the fun this weekend.

Haircut and spray

The first 12 customers who will get a haircut at Folk Barbershop and Retail will take home free helmet sprays. Ideally, you have to be a motorcycle rider to enjoy the deodorizing spray because that's what it is for. However, you can still grab the freebie and give it as a gift to someone who might need it, or why not start riding a motorbike yourself?

Get it on print

There will be a live printing session so feel free to bring your plain shirts, jackets, blankets, or just anything that can be printed on. It's not free and you have to pay P350 for the job, which is quite reasonable.

Wear it proud

A shirt made exclusively for the occasion will be up for sale. The cool-looking shirt has the words 'Escolta' printed on the front, while the back has a vintage, cartoon-like design.

Support local artists

Various sellers will be at the event to sell their products ranging from eco-friendly fashion items to quirky memorabilia with local pop culture references, and more. This is a great way to support small start-ups and help their ventures get back on track.

Explore history

Erected in 1928, the First United Building is a historical wonder in itself. Its entrance displays details about the building and the many events that it endured. You can also explore the neighboring Binondo area, which is the oldest Chinatown in the world. Don't forget to sample the food around the area for some authentic Chinese cuisine.

Folktober takes place on November 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at HUB: Make Lab, First United Building, Escolta, Manila.