What’s on Manila: Best Things to See, Do, & Eat on Aug. 29-Sept. 4, 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. Heroes ToyzPalooza

Calling all collectors and geeks! This three-day toy and cosplay event is happening this weekend just for you. Enjoy the BGC leg of the Heroes Ultimate Cosplay Showdown for the Tailored and Armored Category and the Manila leg of the Search for Maestro Salamangkero on Day 1, as well as a Retro Cosplay Contest on Day 3. Back-to-back performances by Every Day from Viral Records and Re:Animus on Days 2 and 3 will also take the stage. For more details, follow Heroes Convention PH on Facebook.

When: 10 AM-7 PM, Sept. 1-3

Where: Venice Grand Canal, McKinley Hill Drive, Taguig

How much: N/A

2. 2023 Philippine Travel Mart

The Philippines’ biggest and longest-running travel fair is happening again this year to give you the best travel deals! Now on its 34th run, the Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) aims to bring fun and excitement while creating a deep love for traveling and discovering the beautiful destinations in the country. Expect hundreds of festive exhibits, from tours and travel agencies to airlines and hotels, as well as zones and activities that will further highlight Filipino culture. For more details, visit the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA)’s website.

When: Sept. 1-3

Where: SMX Convention Center Manila, Seashell Lane, Pasay

How much: P50, P40 for seniors and students (with valid ID)

3. The Necessary Theatre’s ‘Red’

Welcome the month of September with The Necessary Theatre’s rerun of John Logan’s “Red” this weekend! Starring Bart Guingona (as Mark Rothko) and JC Santos (as Ken), the play is set in the 1950s, with abstract expressionist artist Mark Rothko at the pinnacle of his creativity while struggling with a series of large paintings. Along with his youthful new assistant, Ken, they challenge and ask each other questions about art: what it takes to create it and its role in the world. Get your tickets via Ticket2Me.

When: 8 PM, Sept. 1 / 3:30 PM and 8 PM, Sept. 2 / 3:30 PM and 8 PM, Sept. 3

Where: PETA Theater Center, 5 Sunnyside Dr., New Manila, Quezon City

How much: Starts at P800 (Balcony)

4. Bazket Manila 2023

Head over to SM Megamall Megatrade Hall’s bazaar and market this weekend and be prepared to step into a world of ethical consumerism and eco-friendly wonders. Bazket Manila is uniting a vibrant community of creators and businesses dedicated to creating a positive impact on our planet. Join us to cultivate sustainable shopping habits for you and your family, all while having fun. Entrance is free!

When: 10 AM-10 PM, Sept. 1-3

Where: Megatrade Hall, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Ave., Mandaluyong

How much: Free

5. Collecticon 2023: The Ultimate Toys and Hobbies Convention

In case one hobby-related event isn’t enough for you, there’s another one happening in Manila this weekend to satisfy your needs. Meet fellow toy enthusiasts, see treasure troves of figures and merchandise, and win exciting prizes at the 13th edition of Collecticon. It’s going to be an exciting two-day event filled with activities and exclusive collectibles! Follow Hobby at Worx on Facebook for updates.

When: Sept. 2-3

Where: Megatrade Hall, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Ave., Mandaluyong

How much: P150

6. Chingu Fest 2023

K-pop fans, it’s time to call your chingus and brace yourselves for a day filled with fun, infectious laughter, and heartwarming memories at Chingu Fest 2023! There will be exciting games, art, toy auctions, and K-Pop merchandise organized to celebrate the friendships built in the K-community. If you would like to show off your talent, you can also register for their K-Cosplay, K-Singing, and K-Dance Cover contests here. For inquiries and more details, follow Kpop Static Productions on Facebook.

When: 12 NN-8 PM, Sept. 3

Where: Megatrade Hall, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Ave., Mandaluyong

How much: P150 (Entrance fee), P100/head (Registration for activities)

7. A Wine & Cheese Affair: An Introduction to Wine and Cheese Pairings

Satisfy your taste buds this Saturday as The Tasting Club presents A Wine & Cheese Affair at Society Lounge Makati. Experience the art of pairing wines and cheeses with five different types of each while learning the fundamentals behind them. A certified wine specialist conducts this tasting, providing you with an entry point to discover a completely new and delectable world. Click here for more details.

When: 6 PM-10 PM, Sept. 2

Where: Society Lounge Makati, G/F Atrium Building, Makati Avenue corner Paseo De Roxas, Makati City

How much: P2,200 (all-inclusive)

8. PURVEYR Fair 2023

Get yourselves ready, as PURVEYR Fair is back again this year to bring you over 50 brands, artists, and designers under one roof! Enjoy exclusive releases and launches, cultural and creative career panel talks, and a diverse selection of music by local DJs and producers. There will also be a half-pipe skate ramp by official skate partner, VANS, and food and beverage by Yardstick, Tetsuo, Khao Khai, Onlypans, and more. Check out the participating brands and get your tickets via Helixpay.

When: Sept. 2-3

Where: Metrotent Convention Center, South Drive, Metrowalk Commercial Complex, Meralco Ave., Pasig

How much: P400 (one-day ticket), P700 (two-day ticket)

9. The Korea Travel Fiesta 2023

Dreaming of visiting the land of Hallyu? Mark your calendars, as the Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office is organizing a travel event that may help make your dreams come true! There will be booths by the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) where you can play games, wear traditional Korean clothing (hanbok), and make your own paeng-i. What’s more, South Korean singer and actor Park Ji-hoon is visiting for the opening ceremony! Don’t miss this chance to see him in the flesh. Click here for updates.

When: 10 AM-10 PM, Sept. 2-3

Where: Glorietta Activity Center, Palm Dr., Ayala Center, Makati

How much: Free

10. Paint & Pint

Unleash your inner artist and get creative while sipping your favorite beer, cocktail, or soft drink with Abraham Manila’s Paint & Pint workshop. This weekly guided painting lesson will let you chill, make new friends, and create art on canvas with the help of an experienced instructor. Drinks and painting supplies are included, so all you need to do is show up! Click here for more information.

When: Every Wednesday

Where: Abraham Manila, 7840 Makati Ave., Poblacion, Makati

How much: P649

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