What’s on Manila: Best Things to Do on Dec. 26, 2023-Jan. 1, 2024

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in Manila! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Manila’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.

To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Manila to see what’s best in store for the week ahead.

1. Ozine Fest Retro Anime Event

Ozine Fest Retro Anime Event is bringing back the classics on Dec. 26-27 at SM Megamall's Megatrade Hall. Play iconic games from NES and older consoles, participate in on-stage games, and enjoy old-school cosplay competitions. Don't miss this nostalgic celebration of gaming! Get your one-day pass for only P230 via Slash or buy on-site for the price of P250.

2. Manila Sundance Christmas Bazaar

A festive shopping heaven awaits at the Manila Sundance Christmas Bazaar at Ayala Malls Market! Market! from Dec. 26 to Jan. 7, 2024. Experience the joy of the season as you shop for post-Christmas and New Year's gifts in this highly anticipated bazaar.

This is a great opportunity to discover unique items while supporting local artisans and businesses. Join the festive atmosphere and make this holiday month extra special!

3. Team Payaman Fair Paawer Up!

Viyline Media Group is proud to announce the second installment of the Team Payaman and their Influencers' bazaar, "TP Fair Holiday Paawer Up! 2023," happening from Dec. 27-30 at the SMX Convention Center. Prepare for a Christmas bonanza that will leave you mesmerized! This event brings together a remarkable array of influential social media personalities and their exclusive merchandise, showcasing the power of collaboration from the Viyline Group of Companies.

The TP Fair Holiday Paawer Up 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with excitement, creativity, and the holiday spirit. Get ready to power up the holiday season by booking your tickets at Team Payaman Fair.

4. Cosplay Matsuri 2023

Get ready for the grand finale of the Isekai Adventure at Cosplay Matsuri 2023 from Dec. 28-30 at Function Rooms 2-5 in Mall of Asia's SMX Convention Center! This year's event promises to be the biggest Cosplay Matsuri ever, with over 6,000 square meters of space dedicated to all things cosplay.

Experience the thrilling programming and activities you know and love, along with some exciting new additions. The event's highlight is "Re:Born an Oni," a spectacular showcase that will leave you in awe.

Don't miss out on this year-end event that will take your cosplay adventure to new heights. Make sure to secure your tickets before they run out and be part of the biggest Cosplay Matsuri ever!

5. 2023 Noypi Chess Festival

Calling all chess enthusiasts! Prepare for an action-packed day at the 2023 NOYPI Chess Festival on Dec. 30 at Robinsons Metro East, Pasig City. This festival offers an opportunity for players of various skill levels to showcase their talent in four different sections. From the competitive 2300 and below Individual and Team category to the 1850 and below Individual section, there's something for everyone. Additionally, young chess prodigies can participate in the Youth 17U and Kids 13U categories.

The tournament follows the Swiss System with six or seven rounds, and the games are played with a time control of 15 minutes plus a five-second increment per move. With attractive cash prizes, medals, and special categories, this chess festival promises excitement and fierce competition!

To register or learn more, contact Richard R. Dela Cruz at 09082247865 or 09454474798 (GCash number). Secure your spot now and join a memorable day of strategic chess battles!

6. Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s ‘CINDERELLA’

Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Lisa Macuja Elizalde's "CINDERELLA" as it makes its return to the live stage in Ballet Manila's Holiday Cheer Series from Dec. 25-30 at the Aliw Theater. This unique adaptation of the classic fairytale combines theatrical comedic elements, modern live special effects, and romantic classical scores, creating a truly enchanting experience.

"CINDERELLA" has become one of Ballet Manila's "greatest hits" due to its magical staging that leaves audiences of all ages laughing and falling in love. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the timeless story come to life! Grab your tickets now at TicketWorld.

7. New Year’s Eve Special at The Lobby Lounge

Experience a luxurious New Year's Eve Special at the Edsa Shangri-La Manila Lobby Lounge, featuring a mouthwatering spread of Freshly Shucked Oysters, Live Crawfish, Iberico Ham carved tableside, a rich selection of seafood, Japanese eats, Lobster, Tomahawk Steak, and more. After dinner, the celebration continues with a fun-filled evening of bites, beats, live entertainment, and a joyful holiday ambiance to ring in 2024.

Join this unforgettable night of indulgence and revelry. Contact Edsa Shangri-La Manila to book a reservation!

8. 22 Prime's New Year's Eve Carvery

Make your New Year's celebration extraordinary with a festive dinner at 22 Prime, featuring limitless servings of USDA ribeye steak, roasted turkey, ham, salmon, and more. Come together with family and friends to immerse yourselves in a delightful feast filled with delectable flavors.

Reserve your tables now for the Christmas & New Year's Eve Carvery, priced at P3,500 nett per person. For inquiries and table reservations, call 22 Prime at (+632) 7719 6805. Don't miss the opportunity to create cherished memories and savor an unforgettable dining experience!

9. A Moment to Dine – New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet

Celebrate New Year's Eve in style with A Moment to Dine - New Year's Eve Dinner Buffet at Belmont Manila. On Dec. 31, from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, indulge in a delightful culinary experience for only P2,399 per person.

Enjoy a wide array of delectable dishes and raise a glass to the new year with a complimentary round of wine or Sampaguita & Lychee Drink. Children aged five and below can join the celebration free of charge, while those aged six to 12 receive a 50% discount.

To reserve a table and secure your spot, call Belmont Manila at (02) 5318 8888 or +639270079952 or email [email protected]. Don't miss this opportunity to create joyful memories and usher in the new year with a sumptuous feast!

10. Golden Gibbon 9-Course New Year's Eve Degustation

Experience the ultimate dining extravaganza at Golden Gibbon's 9-Course New Year's Eve Degustation on Dec. 31. Treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable culinary journey, exploring the delectable flavors of Southeast Asia. With limited seats available, priced at P3,500 per head, this one-time dining experience is not to be missed.

To secure your spot, call 09279242102 or shoot a message to Golden Gibbon. Indulge in a feast for the senses as you bid farewell to 2023 and welcome the new year with mouthwatering delights.