Happy New Year, fellow Manila parents! First weekend of 2026 is here, and while everyone's recovering from the Media Noche feast, we need to get the little ones out of the house. Skip the usual mall crawl; we’ve got a last-chance holiday bash at MOA with the HOLIDAY WORLD OF WONDER and something cool for the older kids with the Grand Archive TCG - Ascent Manila 2026. Let's make the first weekend count!
Quick Picks
Exploring Rizal Park (Luneta)
Rizal Park (Luneta)
Pack a picnic and enjoy the historic grounds and open space—perfect for letting toddlers roam safely.
FESTIVE WAVES AND ART
Manila Ocean Park
It’s indoors, combines the ocean and a museum, and has a special holiday promo running until mid-January.
HOLIDAY WORLD OF WONDER
Manila Ocean Park and Philippine Biodome
Little ones 2 feet and below get in free, and there are animal encounters which are always a hit.
FESTIVE WAVES AND ART
This is your last chance to grab the combo deal that lets you explore the ocean park plus the Digital National Art Museum. It’s a full indoor day out, perfect if the post-holiday sun is too intense.
Why we picked it: The promo runs until Jan 16, making this weekend one of the final few chances to catch this combined ticket deal.
Grand Archive TCG - Ascent Manila 2026
If your teen is into competitive card games, this is a huge one happening at the SMX, way more exciting than just playing at home. Tickets are going fast, so check the price conversion for pesos ASAP.
Why we picked it: A rare, large-scale TCG event for the older, niche-interest kids that shows there's more than just pop concerts happening.
Biking at Kiddie Wheely Park
BGC has set aside spots specifically for little bikers, so you can bring their tiny bikes or scooters for a safe ride. Remember to bring your own gear and water, and keep an eye on them!
Why we picked it: It’s a dedicated, free space in BGC that ensures safe cycling practice for the little ones, unlike crowded sidewalks.
The Mind Museum Interactive Exhibits
A guaranteed hit for curious minds—they have over 300 interactive exhibits and planetarium shows. Make sure to book your slot online, especially on a weekend.
Why we picked it: It’s one of the most reliable, educational, and engaging indoor activities, perfect for a hot or rainy Saturday.
31st St. By Track 30th Weekend Park Visit
This open-air park in BGC is specifically great for letting the little ones run around on the lawn or ride their scooters safely. Just remember to bring your own bike/scooter and always supervise them closely.
Why we picked it: It’s a designated weekend-only space in BGC perfect for safe outdoor play for younger kids.
Children's Week Prep Activities (General)
While Children's Week is the *last* week of January, some cultural groups might start running related workshops or storytelling sessions this weekend. Keep an eye on CCP or local library event pages for early cultural happenings.
Why we picked it: It's good to know what's coming up for the end of the month, and sometimes venues soft-launch themes early.
HOLIDAY WORLD OF WONDER
The holiday promo is still active, so you can still get the bundle deal to see the penguins at Trails to Antarctica AND the Biodome. Great for a full day of animal viewing, just make sure the little ones are supervised.
Why we picked it: It’s a great post-Christmas value package for seeing the city’s main marine attraction before the promo ends.
Exploring Rizal Park (Luneta)
The search showed Rizal Park is a great family-friendly spot for a relaxed Sunday, you can just walk around and enjoy the open space. Bring your own snacks and maybe even your own bike/scooter for the kids.
Why we picked it: It’s a completely free, open-air activity right in the city center—great for burning off post-holiday energy without spending a single cent.
Exploring Intramuros Old Town
Rent a bamboo bike and cycle the old walls—it's way more fun than walking and the history lessons sink in better when you’re moving. Casa Manila is partially open, check for current hours.
Why we picked it: It’s a fun, active way to learn about Manila history that beats any boring classroom lecture.
The 'We Wish You a MOA Christmas' Finale Week
This is the absolute last chance for the massive Christmas setup, which means the decorations are still up but the crowds might be thinning out post-holidays. Check if the Saturday fireworks (7 PM) are still running on Friday or if there’s a Sunday finale event.
Why we picked it: The Christmas market and dazzling lights are officially wrapping up on Jan 9th, so this is the last weekend to see the major MOA holiday spectacle.
Okada Manila Pool Day Pass (Heated Pools)
The weather might be tricky, but Okada has heated pools—a total game-changer for a swim when it's not peak summer. They also have a play center for the little ones if you need a break from the sun/water.
Why we picked it: Heated pools mean you can guarantee a swim even if the first weekend of January feels a bit chilly or rainy.
Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) Concert Series Check
The PPO’s 'VERSATILE' season is ongoing, and seeing a live orchestra is a world-class experience you can do right here in Makati. You’ll need to check their official schedule for the exact concert on Jan 4th.
Why we picked it: A classy, cultural outing that’s a good way to introduce older kids to serious live music.
Boxing/Sports Viewing Event
Since the search mentioned boxing as a trend, check local sports bars or community centers for any fight night viewing parties happening this Sunday. It’s a different kind of weekend energy that older teens might find exciting.
Why we picked it: Caters to the older crowd with an activity less focused on pure play and more on shared excitement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Manila this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04) we found two genuinely free options: the Exploring Rizal Park (Luneta) for a family picnic and open space, and the 31st St. By Track 30th in BGC for safe, supervised scooter/bike time. Also, the 'We Wish You a MOA Christmas' viewing is free to enter the mall.
Which indoor activities are best for toddlers if it rains?
The best indoor, weather-proof option this weekend is the FESTIVE WAVES AND ART promo at Manila Ocean Park since it combines the aquarium and an art museum. For the littlest ones, the HOLIDAY WORLD OF WONDER promo also includes the indoor attractions, and kids 2ft and below are free.
Are there any cool things for teens this weekend?
Yes! The main teen draw is the Grand Archive TCG - Ascent Manila 2026 at SMX Convention Center on Saturday for TCG fans. For a cultural option, check for a Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) Concert on Sunday, which offers a more mature experience.