Weekend Hangs: Pop-up markets, coffee and matcha festival, and fun runs to attend this Oct. 17-19
Got free time this weekend and looking for 'weekend gala' ideas?
October weekends are packed with things to see and experience, from art shows and local markets to exciting activities and fresh hangout spots.
We've rounded up your ultimate weekend guide from October 17 to 19 to help you plan your following gala dates.
Oct. 16-18: Manila FAME
A local event is taking place this weekend, showcasing a diverse range of Filipino brands and their exceptional craftsmanship.
Manila FAME, the second longest-running trade show in the Philippines, connects Filipino designers and entrepreneurs with international buyers. The event showcases the country's refined home, fashion, and lifestyle products, highlighting the creativity of Filipino artisans.
The 73rd edition of Manila FAME, set for Oct. 16-18 at the World Trade Center, centers on the theme "Objects of Nature," a concept that celebrates the country's abundant physical resources: flora and fauna, landscapes, and bodies of water.
For registration details, visit the Manila FAME Facebook page.
Oct. 17-19: Katutubo Pop-Up Market
If you're a fan of local craftsmanship and proudly Filipino designs, the Katutubo Pop-Up Market is a must-visit this weekend.
Discover a curated selection of homegrown brands, artisans, and designers who showcase the best of Filipino creativity and craftsmanship. Visitors can browse a wide selection of clothes, accessories, bags, and other items crafted by Filipino artisans like Style Ana, Papaya Reworks, Abel Philippines, Coco and Tres, Habits, Amparo's Apothecary, and more.
The Katutubo Pop-up Market will run from Oct. 17 to 19 at The Bench Tower, BGC, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
You can freely explore and shop for local creations since admission is free.
Oct. 18-19: Coffee & Matcha Festival
If you're in the mood for a chill date or simply craving coffee and matcha this weekend, Alabang West Parade has something special for you: the Coffee & Matcha Festival!
Organized by Alabang West Parade under Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, this posh lifestyle hub in the South will turn into a haven for matcha lovers.
The festival will feature a variety of coffee and matcha shops, along with fun activities like a latte art workshop.
Participating merchants include Upland Kafé, Matcha Go, Ipponyari Japanese Restaurant, Rabbit Hole Coffee + Design, Beans and Blossom Coffee, MOD Coffee, and Gabakes.
Oct. 18: Light Receptacle Café by Jonathan Olazo exhibit
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious to explore works by local artists, Alliance française de Manille is showcasing an exhibit by Jonathan Olazo.
Titled "In Light Receptacle Café," Olazo's exhibition draws inspiration from Claude Monet, the Impressionist master known for his study of how light travels through everything. Olazo reinterprets Monet's fascination with light and abstraction, creating pieces inspired by Monet's ideas and aesthetic.
The vernissage is on Oct. 18 at Alliance française de Manille, starting at 5 p.m. onwards.
Oct. 18: Pawchella 2025
If you want to support rescued animals while enjoying live music from well-known local artists, the Pawssion Project has a special event for you: PAWCHELLA 2025.
PAWCHELLA 2025 is a donation-driven music event that brings together talented local performers for a cause that goes beyond entertainment. The collected funds from the event will be dedicated to helping rescued animals and supporting their ongoing care and monthly needs through Pawssion Rescue.
The event will feature performances from some of the country’s most talented local artists like SUD, HEY JUNE!, RAYA, WRIVE, Better Days, Earl Generao, MAVEN, Püpa, ICA Hands in Harmony, Ethan Guasch, Carlo Mendoza, Minimal Days, Matt Wilson, Meg Zurbito, Kiel, Dana Paulene, and bianca denise.
To show support, general admission is P1,000, and every ticket purchased makes a big difference in the life of a rescued animal.
Catch PAWCHELLA 2025 at the Venice Piazza, located on the Venice Grand Canal Mall. For ticket details, visit the Pawssion Project's official Facebook page.
Oct. 19: J&T Fun Run
Do you want a healthier way to spend your weekend? Joining a fun run might be just what you need. J&T Express Philippines is launching the J&T Express Fun Run, an event featuring a range of activities, entertainment, and prizes. What makes this fun run extra special is that you can bring your pets along!
Registered runners will receive a singlet, race bib, and drawstring bag, while finishers will take home a medal, but your pets won't be left out either because they will get their own J&T pet bandana.
The event also features performances from local artists, and if you're an avid runner, finishing the 10k category gives you a chance to win a premium motorcycle as the grand prize.
The J&T Express Fun Run will take place at Block 20, MOA Complex, Seaside Blvd., Pasay City.
Oct. 19: Women's Run PH
Girls in their running era, where are you at?! Women from all walks of life will gather at UP Diliman this Sunday, Oct. 19, for Lactacyd Women’s Run.
The fun run is divided into three categories: 1K, 5K, and 10K.
The event will also feature fun, exciting games from sponsor brands, like Belo, Ultrahuman, Ringo, and Fujifilm’s Instax.
If you cannot make it to the venue, you may still join and earn the medal via a virtual run. Here’s how you can register. Note that race kits and entitlements will be delivered at least two to three weeks after submission of your run. Learn more about the mechanics here.
