Things to Do in Manila This Week (December 21 – December 27, 2026)
Last Updated on October 28, 2026 by Over Here Toronto
As Christmas week officially arrives, Metro Manila transforms into a glowing wonderland of holiday traditions, family gatherings, and year-end celebrations. If you are looking for things to do in manila this week, the capital offers a magical lineup ranging from historic Christmas Eve midnight masses and blockbuster cinema openings to dazzling light displays across Makati, Pasay, and Quezon City.
Whether you want to experience the vibrant local film scene on Christmas Day, stroll through illuminated park trails, or enjoy world-class resort holiday shows, this week delivers an unforgettable holiday experience. Here is your day-by-day guide to the best events happening across Manila from December 21 to December 27, 2026.
Editor’s Note: Christmas week brings high festive traffic and heavy crowds around major shopping centers, entertainment districts, and cultural landmarks. Therefore, we highly recommend planning your transportation in advance, utilizing commuter rail lines like the MRT-3, or arriving early for major holiday events.
Events & Activities in Manila (Dec 21 – Dec 27, 2026)
Misa de Gallo at the Manila Cathedral
- Location: Manila Cathedral, Plaza de Roma, Intramuros, Manila
- Date: Thursday, December 24, 2026 (Concert at 6:30 PM, Mass at 8:00 PM)
Experience the profound beauty of a traditional Filipino Christmas Eve at the historic Manila Cathedral. Enjoy a solemn holiday choral concert followed by the anticipated Christmas Eve Holy Mass presided over by Manila’s Archbishop inside the magnificent, beautifully lit mother church of the Philippines.
Tip: Arrive at least an hour before the evening service to secure seating inside the cathedral. Furthermore, dress in modest, respectful attire.
UPMAS Homecoming Ball 2026
- Location: Shangri-La The Fort, BGC, Taguig City
- Date: Monday, December 21, 2026 (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Kick off Christmas week with a sophisticated evening of fellowship and legacy. Hosted by the University of the Philippines Medical Alumni Society, the UPMAS Homecoming Ball 2026 (themed “1sang Puso, 1sang Mithi: Pagdiriwang ng Pag-Uwi”) brings together professionals and friends of the UP College of Medicine for a grand corporate-style gala dinner and celebration.
Tip: Registration is required (PHP 6,500 for standard tickets), and lifetime members receive a 10% discount. Furthermore, dress in formal evening wear to match the luxurious ambiance of Shangri-La The Fort.
The Peninsula Manila Christmas Eve Festive Merienda & Gala
- Location: The Peninsula Manila, Makati Avenue, Makati City
- Date: Thursday, December 24, 2026 (Merienda starts at 2:30 PM; Gala Dinners at 6:00 PM)
Experience the pinnacle of corporate hospitality at The Peninsula Manila’s legendary Christmas Eve celebration. Start the afternoon with their famous Festive Merienda Buffet at The Upper Lobby, surrounded by towering holiday decorations and live choral singing, followed by an extravagant evening Gala Buffet at Escolta or a refined five-course set dinner at Old Manila.
Tip: Tables at The Lobby and Escolta sell out months in advance for Christmas Eve. Consequently, you must confirm your reservations and prepay through the hotel’s concierge to secure your seating.
Team Payaman Fair 2026: VIYond the Beat
- Location: SMX Convention Center Manila, MOA Complex, Pasay City
- Dates: Sunday, December 27 – Wednesday, December 30, 2026 (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
The wait is over! Content creator Viy Cortez brings back the internet’s most massive year-end community festival. Blending a massive bazaar with a high-energy live music concert, VIYond the Beat takes over the entire SMX MOA. Expect live music performances from top creators and local OPM acts, massive creator challenges, and the highly anticipated brand-new car raffle.
Tip: This event draws thousands of fans from across the country. Buy your tickets online in advance through their official website to secure your grand raffle entries and bypass the massive walk-in queues.
Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra: 42nd Concert Season (Modulatio)
- Location: Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati
- Date: December 2026 (Check CCP calendar for exact holiday week symphony dates)
For a world-class musical evening, catch the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra as they run their officially announced 42nd Concert Season, themed Modulatio (running from September 2026 through April 2027). While international pop stars pause their tours for the holidays, the country’s premier orchestra delivers breathtaking live symphonic performances perfect for a sophisticated, post-Christmas night out.
Tip: Because the CCP Main Building is currently undergoing rehabilitation, the PPO is holding its major 2026 season concerts at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati. Dress in smart-casual or formal evening attire.
Practical Planning Notes
Navigating Metro Manila during Christmas week requires patience and flexibility. With family reunions, midnight mass services, and cinema rushes drawing crowds across Makati, Manila, and Quezon City, utilizing ride-hailing apps during off-peak hours or taking advantage of pedestrian-friendly central spaces will ensure your holiday week stays joyful and bright!
