What’s on Manila: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, & Drink on Dec. 12-18, 2023

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. World Bazaar Festival

Get into the holiday spirit at the World Bazaar Festival (WBF) 2023, which is set to take place from Dec. 13-22 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. Join Woobie (the event's official mascot) and explore one of the grandest and longest-running annual charity bazaars in the Philippines. Some of the highlights you can enjoy are the Christmas Village, DTI Pavilion, Designers Avenue, Woobie’s Goodies, Woobie’s Food World, Woobie’s Pet Zone, and Manila Flair Open (MFO), among others.

Don't miss out on this festive experience! Get your tickets and register here.

2. Asia Artist Awards 2023

The highly acclaimed Asian Artist Awards (AAA), often hailed as the Asian entertainment industry's pinnacle of recognition, is making its debut in the Philippines!

This prestigious event will take place at the Philippine Arena on Thursday, hosted by renowned concert and live event organizer, PULP Live World. Confirmed attendees include LE SSERAFIM, NewJeans, ZEROBASEONE, Stray Kids, ITZY, SEVENTEEN BSS, and more!

With the aim to honor outstanding achievements in music, film, television, and online content creation, the AAA 2023 is set to leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the Philippines and the international entertainment scene.

Don't miss this must-attend event! Tickets are available via PULP PH.

3. adobo SheCreative Network's '#WhatWomenDo: Muses or Makers?'

Join adobo SheCreative Network at The Astbury in Poblacion, Makati for "#WhatWomenDo: Muses or Makers?" this Thursday for a session that explores how women have evolved and shaped the entertainment industry. Hear from women leaders and innovators as they discuss the current landscape of the Philippine and Asian entertainment industry.

Secure your spot now to be part of an insightful discussion that celebrates the achievements of women in creativity and business!

4. SuperManila 2023

Celebrate Filipino influence on pop culture at SuperManila 2023, happening from Dec. 15-17 at Ayala Malls Circuit Makati. Join the biggest pop culture convention in Manila for a thrilling event packed with special guests, artist signing sessions, and a wide range of comics, graphic novels, toys, and collectibles.

Don't miss the chance to meet your favorite comic book artists and have the ultimate pop culture experience. Tickets for the event are priced at P400 per day, and available via SuperManila. Grab your friends and family and be part of this monumental event!

5. TOYCON PH 16th Christmas Toys & Collectibles Fair

Get ready for the 16th Christmas TOYFAIR, the Philippines' most iconic Christmas toy and pop culture event organized by TOYCON PH. Visit SM Megamall's Megatrade Halls from Dec. 15-17 to explore a vast selection of toys, collectibles, apparel, comics, and more with over 200 booths to discover.

There will be a Christmas Cosplay contest, where you can showcase your festive spirit for a chance to win fantastic raffle prizes. You can also take part in the charity auctions and Christmas Toy Drive supporting children with special needs. What's more, Horie Mitsuko (the original singer of "Voltes V no Uta") will be there for a meet and greet!

Ticket prices start at P100 (Kids above 3ft.) and P150 (Adult) for a Day 1 Pass. Kids below 3ft. are free. All tickets will be sold only at the venue.

6. BELUCA 1st Fan Meeting in Manila

Thai drama fans, get ready for a thrilling event! Popular and widely loved actors Tay Tawan, New Thitipoom, Off Jumpol, and Gun Atthaphan, collectively known as TayNew and OffGun, are bringing their BELUCA 1st Fan Meeting to Manila. Prepare to scream your lungs out as they do talks and activities that will surely please the fangirl and fanboy in you.

Mark your calendars, as this highly anticipated one-night show will take place this Saturday at the New Frontier Theater. Secure your seats now via Ticketnet!

7. Philippine Ballet Theatre Presents 'The Nutcracker'

Delight in the timeless holiday classic, "THE NUTCRACKER," presented by the Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) this weekend. Witness the captivating journey of a little girl into a fantastical world of fairies, princesses, toy soldiers, and mice — a story that generations of audiences around the world have cherished in their hearts.

Immerse yourself in this magical performance happening at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Get your tickets now via TicketWorld.

8. Mind S-Cool Workshop: SPACE-TACULAR SEASON

3... 2... 1... Lift off! Celebrate the holiday season in an out-of-this-world way with "SPACE-TACULAR SEASON," happening at The Mind Museum's Mind Pod 3.

Embark on a guided tour of the night sky, where you'll learn about the mysteries of the cosmos. Plus, unleash your creativity as you make your very own space-themed snow globe. This workshop is perfect for participants aged four and up and includes kits and mini giveaways. Limited slots are available, so register early to secure your spot now!

9. Christmas Tag Calligraphy Workshop by papemelroti

Craft holiday magic at this Christmas Tag Calligraphy Workshop by the well-loved local brand papemelroti. Happening this Saturday at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, this event offers an introduction to the art of calligraphy, where you'll be learning strokes and letters through a hands-on session. Each workshop kit includes worksheets, a Dualtip Brushpen, two Colored Supertips Pens, and 10 Christmas tags.

Register now to secure your spot, as pre-registered participants get to enjoy special freebies. All ages are welcome, but children under 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Don't miss this opportunity to add a personal touch to your holiday gifts!

10. Cosplay Festival: A Day & Night Cosplay Event!

A cosplay event that's taking place both day and night? Sign us up!

Organized by OtaCute Event DAO, the December 2023 OtaCute Cosplay Festival is happening this Sunday to let you experience a day and night of cosplay fun at the Brooklyn Warehouse. Enjoy anime-related activities such as the Cosplay Runway, guest appearances from Japan, and idol performances by Mju:z Kiss, Chie Kurosaki, and DNE (Day Night Explorers). There's also going to be a lively Anisong Club JAPANIGHT afterward to cap the day!