Things To Do in Manila This Week (December 7 – December 13, 2026)
Last Updated on October 28, 2026 by Over Here Toronto
As mid-December approaches, Metro Manila’s holiday energy reaches full throttle. From the grand opening weekend of the country’s largest charity bazaar to dazzling light spectacles in Makati, festive weekend fun runs, and world-class theatrical showcases, the capital is packed with unmissable seasonal experiences.
Whether you are hunting for unique holiday gifts, craving festive street food under glowing lights, or lacing up for a Sunday charity run, this week offers an incredible lineup. Here is your day-by-day guide to the best events happening across Manila from December 7 to December 13, 2026.
Editor’s Note: Mid-December brings peak holiday shopping and traffic rushes across major commercial districts like Pasay, Makati, and BGC. Therefore, we recommend securing your bazaar tickets in advance and utilizing ride-hailing apps or commuter rail lines to navigate the evening rush.
Events & Activities in Manila (Dec 7 – Dec 13, 2026)
Ayala Triangle Gardens Festival of Lights & Holiday Market
- Location: Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City
- Dates: December 7 – 13, 2026 (Nightly shows from 6:00 PM onwards)
Experience Metro Manila’s most iconic holiday tradition. Stroll through the lush gardens as millions of synchronized LED lights dance to festive orchestral arrangements, then explore the surrounding artisan food market featuring gourmet treats and holiday hot chocolates.
Tip: Visit on a weekday evening (Monday through Wednesday) to enjoy the light show with smaller crowds. In addition, grab a hot spiced drink from the perimeter kiosks.
World Bazaar Festival 2026 (Opening Weekend)
- Location: World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City
- Dates: December 11 – 20, 2026 (10:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
Kick off your holiday shopping at the Philippines’ longest-running annual charity bazaar. Spanning massive exhibition halls, the event brings together hundreds of merchants offering apparel, bespoke home decor, imported gourmet goods, and unique holiday gift items supporting meaningful causes.
Tip: Arrive right when doors open at 10:00 AM on Friday or Saturday. Consequently, you will beat the massive weekend crowds and secure the best parking spots.
Samsung Performing Arts Theater: Holiday Musical Showcase
- Location: Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati
- Dates: December 11 – 13, 2026 (Evening and matinee showtimes)
Immerse yourself in world-class performing arts this December. The prestigious Samsung Performing Arts Theater hosts a special holiday concert series featuring renowned Filipino vocalists, choir ensembles, and instrumentalists performing timeless seasonal classics.
Tip: Book your tickets online through Ticketworld ahead of time. Thus, you can secure premium balcony or orchestra seats before they sell out.
Bonifacio High Street Holiday Art Mart & Night Market
- Location: Bonifacio High Street, BGC, Taguig City
- Dates: December 7 – 13, 2026 (4:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Stroll down the pedestrian-friendly, beautifully decorated avenues of Bonifacio High Street for their mid-December night market. Discover handcrafted jewelry, local artisan artwork, sustainable apparel, and artisanal baked goods under a canopy of glowing holiday street lights.
Tip: Bring cash for smaller independent art booths. Furthermore, stop by the nearby central amphitheater to catch spontaneous acoustic busking performances.
Manila Bay Sunset Holiday Cruise & Dinner Buffet
- Location: Esplanade Seaside Terminal, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay
- Dates: Saturday, December 12 & Sunday, December 13, 2026 (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Celebrate the weekend with a breathtaking holiday dinner cruise along Manila Bay. Enjoy a hearty buffet, live acoustic music, and front-row views of the famous Manila sunset followed by glittering skyline lights across the bay.
Tip: Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. Therefore, arrive early at the terminal to secure a window-side dining table.
Santa Bubble Run 2026 (Manila Leg)
- Location: SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds, Pasay City
- Dates: Sunday, December 13, 2026 (5:30 AM assembly)
Lace up your running shoes and put on your favorite Santa hat for one of the season’s most joyful charity fun runs. Featuring 1K, 3K, 5K, and 10K categories complete with cascading bubble stations and festive music along the bay, it’s a fantastic fitness event for families and groups of friends.
Tip: Wear a fun holiday costume or Santa accessories. As a result, you will be eligible for special race-day costume awards and great photo ops.
Practical Planning Notes
Navigating Metro Manila during the second week of December requires smart route planning. With major bazaars opening at the World Trade Center, light shows drawing evening crowds in Makati, and weekend fun runs along SM Mall of Asia, utilizing pedestrian walkways in BGC or taking ride-hailing services during off-peak hours will keep your holiday schedule smooth and stress-free.
