Film festivals, immersive theater, fandom gatherings, and family-friendly spectacles take over Manila this October. Watch acclaimed international films for free at KinoFest 2026, step into Wonderland with "Cirque Alice," or take part in community-driven events like VIU Hallyu Dash Year 2 and POKOHI: Lantern Festival. Whether you're a cinephile, theater enthusiast, or pop culture fan, there's plenty to discover throughout the month. Check them out!
KinoFest 2026
Step into four days of thought-provoking cinema with KinoFest 2026 from Oct. 15-18, 2026, at GH Ortigas Cinema in Greenhills Mall. This annual German film festival brings acclaimed contemporary films exploring identity, family, faith, justice, memory, and belonging, with titles like "Rose," "Sound of Falling," "In Good Faith," and "Heidi – Rescue of the Lynx."
Don't miss the "KinoFest Special: Intersections" as well on Oct. 17, featuring Filipino films and filmmaker talkbacks. Admission is free on a first-come, first-served basis, and tickets can be claimed at the KinoFest booth near Cinema 1 one hour before each screening.
Cirque Alice
Get ready to chase the White Rabbit at "Cirque Alice," from Oct. 17-18 and 20-25, 2026, at The Theatre at Solaire. This spectacular twist on "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" combines breathtaking acrobatics, magic, dance, live music, and stunning visuals from performers with credits spanning Cirque du Soleil, "America's Got Talent: Fantasy League," and the global circus stage.
Created by the team behind "Mad Apple," "The Illusionists," and "Le Noir," it's a family-friendly adventure packed with imagination and wonder. Tickets are priced from P2,000 to P7,500.
'The Discotheque Massacre' by Oro Teatro
Lose yourself in a night where theater and nightlife collide at "The Discotheque Massacre" on Oct. 17, 2026, from 8 PM to 10 PM, at a secret Quezon City venue. Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's "The Tell-Tale Heart," this immersive production transforms a functioning club into the stage for a gripping story of obsession, paranoia, and guilt.
Expect audience interaction, a live DJ set by Jolly V, and a unique narrative brought to life through the Ego, Superego, and Id. Entry is limited to approved guests, with free-flowing alcoholic drinks and soft drinks included throughout the evening.
VIU Hallyu Dash Year 2: Fandom in Motion
Lace up with fellow K-drama and K-pop fans at VIU Hallyu Dash Year 2: Fandom in Motion on Oct. 17, 2026, at ArcoVia City. This energetic community run blends fandom and fitness with 3K, 5K, and 10K categories, plus a lively pre-run program featuring kit claiming and warm-ups.
Beyond the finish line, every step supports Bahay Aruga and Project Pearls, making it a meaningful day of fun, music, and giving back. Registration starts at P620.
POKOHI: Lantern Festival
Trade, battle, and celebrate with fellow trainers at POKOHI: Lantern Festival from Oct. 17-18, 2026, starting at 2 PM, at Street Kohi. This cozy autumn-themed gathering brings the Pokohi community together for a weekend of trading, battling, crafting, and connecting over great coffee beneath glowing lanterns.
Whether you're a longtime trainer or simply looking to soak up the welcoming atmosphere, expect plenty of activities, new friendships, and shared fandom moments in a relaxed café setting. Don't miss out!
Fiestas y Muertos
Uncover the hidden truths behind celebration and spectacle at "Fiestas y Muertos" on Oct. 23-25 and Nov. 6, 8, and 13-15, 2026, with select show times from 2 PM and 7 PM at the IBG-KAL Theater, UP Diliman.
Dulaang UP's bold reimagining of "Noli Me Tangere" revisits José Rizal's classic through the contrasting lenses of public fiestas and the haunting realities of death, poverty, and oppression. Directed by José Estrella, this thought-provoking production gives the enduring novel fresh relevance while inviting audiences to reflect on social issues that continue to resonate today. Tickets are priced at P1,200 with free seating.
PF Mamaw Run 2026
Swap your running shoes for a costume and join PF Mamaw Run 2026 on Oct. 24, 2026, at Filinvest City, Alabang. This Halloween-themed fun run transforms an ordinary race into a spooky celebration where runners can dress as monsters, heroes, villains, fortune tellers, and other colorful characters.
Expect eerie music along the course and an enchanted midway packed with circus acts, games, magic, and festive surprises after the run. Gather your friends and get ready for a memorable night of fitness, fantasy, and Halloween fun. Registration starts at P850.
