Free & Paid Things To Do in Metro Manila This December 2025
Trying to plan your December without getting overwhelmed by all the holiday chaos? This guide to things to do in Metro Manila this December 2025 should help you map out your weekends and weeknights without the usual last-minute scrambling. December in the metro can feel like a mix of holiday excitement, heavy traffic, random reunions, and spontaneous mall visits, so having a list definitely makes things easier.
Details are subject to change without notice; always check the official pages. While entry is free, be prepared for potential RSVP requirements or separate costs for all purchased items (food, drinks, activities).
Free Fun Events
New Mama Expo: Holiday Edition
New and expecting parents get a helpful, stress-saving event with over 150 brands and big discounts. The expert talks and classes make the visit feel purposeful, while the kids’ activities keep the energy light.
- When: December 5-7, 2025
- Where: SMX Convention Center Manila (Mall of Asia Complex, Seashell Ln, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.newmamaexpo.ph
- Best for: New parents, expecting moms, and holiday shoppers.
Noel Bazaar 2025
Noel Bazaar hits its 25th year, and it still feels like the spot where holiday shopping gets real. The mix of merchants is massive, so you’ll likely walk out with something you didn’t plan to buy. And the food stalls are ready for your post-mall hunger.
- When: December 18-21, 2025
- Where: Filinvest Tent Alabang (Spectrum Piazza, Spectrum Midway, Muntinlupa)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @noelbazaar
- Best for: Gift hunters, bargain lovers, and families.
Designers’ Holiday Bazaar 2025
This bazaar highlights Filipino artisans with thoughtful, well-made pieces across fashion, home, food, and lifestyle. Each venue has its own style, so you get a different shopping mood depending on where you stop.
- When: Until December 7, 2025
- Where: Greenbelt 5 and Glorietta
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @designersholidaybazaar
- Best for: Gift hunters, design lovers, and conscious shoppers.
Royal Salute: First-Ever Immersive Pop-up in the Philippines
Royal Salute shows up in Greenbelt 5 with a polished tasting experience that highlights its iconic 21-Year-Old blend. The leather monograms, engraving booths, and weekend gifting stations add a thoughtful touch if you want something special for someone important.
- When: Until December 23, 2025
- Where: Greenbelt 5 – Ayala Malls Greenbelt (H23C+CX9, Makati Ave, Makati City)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Best for: Holiday gifting, whisky lovers, and luxury shoppers.
SM Mall of Asia: We Wish You a MOA Christmas
MOA went full holiday mode this year. The 65-foot Christmas tree alone pulls you in, but the Santa meet-and-greets and Christmas carols make it even sweeter. Saturdays come with fireworks at SM By the Bay, and the Christmas Market also runs long, so last-minute shoppers still get a fighting chance.
- When: Until January 9, 2026
- Where: SM Mall of Asia (G/F, Main Mall, Seaside Blvd, 123, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @themallofasiaofficial
- Best for: Families, photo-takers, and weekend explorers.
Robinsons Las Piñas – C.O.D. Christmas on Display
The South finally gets the iconic C.O.D. show, and the nostalgia hits fast. The animatronic retelling of “The Birth of Jesus Christ” feels comforting with the lights and storytelling that many grew up with.
- When: Until January 31, 2026
- Where: Alabang–Zapote Rd, Las Piñas
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://robinsonsmalls.com
- Best for: Families, long-time C.O.D. fans, and South residents.
Makati In Color: Where Christmas Tradition Meets Imagination
Ayala Avenue and the Triangle Gardens glow nightly with lanterns inspired by sarimanok and anahaw designs. The colors are vivid without feeling overwhelming, making it a relaxing stop for photos and evening strolls.
- When: Throughout Christmas season
- Where: across Ayala Avenue and Ayala Triangle (now extending up to Makati Avenue and Paseo de Roxas)
- Tickets: Free to explore
- Instagram: @makeitmakati
- Best for: Families, pet owners, and casual city walks.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
NAITAS – 10th NTEX Travel Expo
If travel is on your mind for 2026, this expo is a great way to start planning. The deals cover tours, flights, cruises, and sustainable travel options.
- When: December 6-7, 2025
- Where: Megatrade Hall (SM Megamall EDSA Corner, Doña Julia Vargas Ave, Mandaluyong City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://naitas.ph
- Best for: Families, travel planners, and deal hunters.
Christmas by the Pool
Unlimited food, free-flowing drinks, live performances, and a festive mini-bazaar all by the pool? Yep. It’s a fun, easygoing way to celebrate with friends without needing a big plan.
- When: December 6, 2025
- Where: Solaire Resort & Entertainment City – Poolside, Parañaque City
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://sec.solaireresort.com
- Best for: Groups, workmates, and laid-back celebrations.
World Bazaar Festival 2025
World Bazaar Festival hits its 25th year, and it’s bringing back major early-2000s throwback energy. The booths are stacked with home finds, food, fashion, and gifts, so pacing yourself becomes a real challenge.
- When: December 12-21, 2025
- Where: World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM Building, Pasay Extension corner, 1300 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://worldbazaarfestival.com
- Best for: Shoppers, barkadas, and office groups.
TOYCON PH: 18th Christmas Toys & Collectibles Fair
If your idea of Christmas shopping includes action figures, comics, and collectibles, this is the right place. Over 300 exhibitors fill Megatrade Halls with toys, merch, and pop culture gems. CosKon is back, too, so you’ll spot lots of creative cosplay moments while browsing.
- When: December 12-14, 2025
- Where: Megatrade Hall (SM Megamall EDSA Corner, Doña Julia Vargas Ave, Mandaluyong City)
- Tickets: P200 per day (sold only at the venue)
- Website: https://www.toyconph.com
- Best for: Collectors, anime fans, and families
Brickman® Wonders of the World
This LEGO® exhibit feels huge, bright, and impressive right from the entrance. With over 45 builds, some taller than most visitors, it’s a creative walk-through that sparks curiosity for every age.
- When: December 12, 2025-February 8, 2026
- Where: The Space At Solaire, Parañaque City
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.thebrickman.com
- Best for: Families, kids, and LEGO fans.
The Little Prince x Lantern Festival
If The Little Prince still hits your soft spot, this three-day festival will feel like stepping straight into a storybook. The café, known for its themed fairs, is bringing together lanterns, nostalgia, and a whole lot of charm.
- When: December 12-14, 2025
- Where: Street Kohi, 24 Mayaman St., UP Village, Quezon City
- Tickets: Starts at P300
- Instagram: @streetkohi
- Best for: Aesthetic lovers, café hoppers, and anyone craving a warm, nostalgic moment.
Lee Dong Wook: My Sweet Home in Manila
Lee Dong Wook returns with a fan meeting that blends charm, warmth, and the kind of humor fans adore. It’s a relaxed and comfortable setting, which makes it easy for fans to enjoy every moment up close.
- When: December 20, 2025
- Where: The Theatre At Solaire, Parañaque City
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://sec.solaireresort.com
- Best for: K-drama fans and dedicated fandoms.
Metro Manila Film Festival 2025
The MMFF is back, and the lineup always sparks a full month of movie nights, debates, and “sino ang best?” conversations. It’s the season when local films take over the big screens, giving you everything from family dramas to laugh-filled comedies and big holiday blockbusters.
- When: December 25, 2025-First week of January 2026
- Where: Multiple venues
- Tickets: On sale soon
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmffofficial
- Best for: Families, movie fans, and holiday bonding.
Step Right Up to 2026: NYE Countdown Concert
Cove Manila turns New Year’s Eve into a full celebration complete with music, lights, and a lively countdown. The energy feels big from start to finish, and it’s a straightforward but fun way to welcome 2026.
- When: December 31, 2025
- Where: Okada Manila (Entertainment City, New Seaside Dr, Parañaque, 1701 Kalakhang Maynila)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://okadamanila.com
- Best for: Friends, co-workers, and party groups.
The Grand Countdown to 2026
This lineup goes all out with artists like Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, and Jessica Sanchez, plus many rising names. With Billy Crawford hosting, expect a smooth and entertaining night.
- When: December 31, 2025
- Where: Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom (Newport World Resorts, G2C8+FVF, Newport Blvd, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://tickets.newportworldresorts.com
- Best for: Families, concert fans, and corporate groups.
A Night of Icons
Rachelle Ann Go, Martin Nievera, and Sharon Cuneta share one stage to close the year in classic Manila style. The Solaire setting gives it a warm, grand feel that suits these powerhouse performers.
- When: December 31, 2025
- Where: Solaire Resort North Grand Ballroom, Quezon City
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://sn.solaireresort.com
- Best for: Families, music lovers, and elegant NYE plans.
Concerts & Live Music
Tyla: We Wanna Party Asia in Manila
Tyla finally lands in Manila, and the excitement is loud. “Water” fans already know this will be a high-energy night filled with Amapiano beats, smooth R&B, and a stage presence that pulls you in fast.
- When: December 3, 2025
- Where: SM Mall of Asia Arena (Mall of Asia Complex, J.W. Diokno Boulevard, cor Coral Way, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.tylaworld.com
- Best for: Concert-goers, R&B fans, and TikTok dancers.
GET, GET AW! THE SEXBOMB CONCERT
SexBomb Girls returning to a big arena feels like Filipino pop history coming full circle. The show revives their iconic anthems while giving the nostalgia crowd everything they asked for. The second night at MOA Arena says a lot; people really missed this group.
- When: December 4 (Smart Araneta Coliseum); December 9 (SM Mall of Asia Arena)
- Tickets: Click here (Dec 4) or here (Dec 9).
- Best for: Millennials, OPM fans, and barkada nights.
RAAA! Rob, Amiel, Adie & Arthur Live in Concert
Four chart-topping OPM artists share one stage, and it’s a lineup that makes perfect sense. Arthur Nery’s emotion, Rob Deniel’s soulful hits, Amiel’s viral tracks, and Adie’s heartfelt ballads create a concert that moves through different moods easily.
- When: December 5, 2025
- Where: Smart Araneta Coliseum (General Roxas Ave, Cubao, Quezon City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Instagram: @viva_records
- Best for: OPM lovers, date nights, and fans of modern ballads.
Wonderful Moments Music Festival
This festival aims big with local talent and a production style inspired by global stages. The goal is clear: uplift Filipino artists in a space that feels world-class.
- When: December 6-7, 2025
- Where: SMDC Festival Grounds (Aseana Ave, Parañaque)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Instagram: @wonderfulmomentsmusicfestival
- Best for: Festival fans, OPM supporters, and weekend groups.
JBL Sound Fest 2025
JBL fills Parklinks with live performances and high-energy sets from some of the biggest local acts right now. The lineup is stacked, the entrance is free, and the sound quality, of course, is the star.
- When: December 6, 2025
- Where: Parklinks Open Grounds, Pasig City
- Tickets: Free for customers who purchase participating JBL products from selected online/physical stores.
- Instagram: @jblph
- Best for: Teens, young adults, and music lovers.
Doja Cat: Ma Vie World Tour
Doja Cat brings her bold, dynamic performance style to Manila, and the setlist spans her biggest eras. From “Say So” to “Agora Hills,” it’s a packed night of choreography, visuals, and her signature charisma.
- When: December 7, 2025
- Where: SM Mall of Asia Arena (Mall of Asia Complex, J.W. Diokno Boulevard, cor Coral Way, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.dojacat.com
- Best for: Pop fans, dancers, and concert-goers.
Rich Brian – WHERE IS MY HEAD? Asia Tour
Rich Brian is back with his solo Manila concert, and the excitement is loud from long-time fans. The new album brings a cinematic theme with shifting personas, so the production should feel fresh and expressive.
- When: December 8, 2025
- Where: New Frontier Theatre (7 General Malvar Ave, Cubao, Quezon City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://richbrian.net
- Best for: hip-hop fans, Gen Z listeners, and long-time supporters
IV OF SPADES LIVE at MOA Arena
The full original lineup is finally back on one stage, and the hype is real. Expect a night of nostalgia, new album highlights, and the sound that made them one of the most memorable bands of their era.
- When: December 12, 2025
- Where: SM Mall of Asia Arena (Mall of Asia Complex, J.W. Diokno Boulevard, cor Coral Way, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Instagram: @ivofspades
- Best for: Long-time fans, rock lovers, and nostalgia seekers.
Secondhand Serenade: 20 Year Anniversary – A Secondhand Symphony
Emotions will rise quickly the moment the first chord hits. Secondhand Serenade brings two decades of heartbreak anthems back to Manila, mixed with new songs delivered with the same sincerity he’s known for.
- When: December 12 & 14, 2025
- Where: New Frontier Theatre (7 General Malvar Ave, Cubao, Quezon City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.secondhandserenade.us
- Best for: Millennials, soft rock fans, and date nights.
How to Train Your Dragon In Concert
Hiccup and Toothless take over Solaire with a full symphony performing the film’s score live. The visuals blend beautifully with the music, creating a cinematic experience that hits kids and adults differently.
- When: December 13-14, 2025
- Where: The Theatre at Solaire (Entertainment City, Aseana Ave, Parañaque)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://sec.solaireresort.com
- Best for: Kids, parents, film and music fans.
Disney On Ice: Magic in the Stars
The Disney classics and new favorites meet on the ice with strong performances and plenty of recognizable songs. Raya and Asha make their big debut this year, adding fresh excitement to an already nostalgic lineup.
- When: December 20, 2025-January 4, 2026
- Where: SM Mall of Asia Arena (Mall of Asia Complex, J.W. Diokno Boulevard, cor Coral Way, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.disneyonice.com
- Best for: Families, Disney fans, and weekend outings.
Snow White by Lisa Macuja Elizalde
This ballet brings Snow White to life through graceful storytelling and expressive choreography. With its blend of Grimm and Disney touches, it feels classic without being repetitive.
- When: December 25-29, 2025
- Where: Aliw Theater (CCP Complex, Vicente Sotto St, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Instagram: @balletmanila
- Best for: Families, ballet fans, and holiday traditions.
SHREK The Musical
Shrek and the gang take over the stage with big laughs, charm, and enough heart to win over every age group. Fiona, Donkey, Farquaad, and the fairy-tale crew make the story feel fresh again with choreography, humour, and plenty of expressive moments.
- When: Until December 14, 2025
- Where: Newport Performing Arts Theater (Newport Mall, 1309 Newport Blvd, Newport City, Pasay City)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.newportworldresorts.com
- Best for: Families, musical fans, and kids at heart.
Other Events/Activities to Check Out
- Alice in Wonderland – Until December 14 at Repertory Eastwood Theater (4F Eastwood Citywalk, Quezon City) | Ticketed
- A Christmas Carol, The Musical – Until December 21 at The Proscenium Theater, Makati City | Ticketed
- Brewing Joy – A Holiday Coffee Art Exhibit – Until February 1, 2026 at Red Gallery – Summit Hotel Greenhills (13 Annapolis St, San Juan City)
- Techbayanihan 2025: Data at AI Para Sa Bayan – December 3-4 at Microsoft Philippines, Inc.(11F, One Ayala West Tower, Ayala Avenue, corner EDSA, Makati City) | Ticketed
- Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical – December 5-14 at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP Complex, Malate, Pasay City) | Ticketed
- Ballet Philippines ‘Alice in Wonderland’ – December 5-7 at The Theatre – Solaire Resort & Casino (Aseana Avenue Entertainment City, Parañaque City) | Ticketed
- Kung Anik-Anik: GACHA UNIVERSE – December 6 at SM Southmall (Alabang–Zapote Rd, Almanza, Las Piñas) | P100 entry
- Here and Now the Music of Jose Mari Chan – December 10 at Newport Performing Arts Theater (L2, Newport Mall, 1309 Newport Blvd, Newport City, Pasay City) | Ticketed
- How to Save a Life: 20th Anniversary Tour – December 12 at Smart Araneta Coliseum (General Roxas Ave, Cubao, Quezon City) | Ticketed
- Tanya Markova XV: The 15th Anniversary Concert – December 12 at Music Museum (J332+3CF, Service Rd, San Juan City) | Ticketed
- Symphony of the Stars – December 31 at Solaire Grand Ballroom, Parañaque City | Ticketed
Looking for more Manila Christmas ideas?
If you’re still piecing together your holiday plans or want more inspiration beyond concerts and bazaars, you might enjoy my guide to 15+ Magical Places to Celebrate Christmas in Manila (2025). It’s packed with fun spots, must-see displays, and easy picks for families, couples, and groups.
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