Weekend Hangs: Markets, food festivals, anime cons, and more this Aug. 7 to 9
The rainy weather may have put a damper on outdoor plans these past few days, but there's still plenty to look forward to this weekend.
This week's lineup has a little bit of everything—foodies can feast on flavors from across Asia, anime fans can geek out over cosplay and collectibles, while culture buffs can take a closer look at Manila's rich heritage.
Here are some of the events happening from Aug. 7 to 9:
Aug. 8: Light, Love, Legacy: A Jewelry Soirée
Add some sparkle to your weekend by joining the Light, Love, Legacy: A Jewelry Soirée, which features a jewelry talk, showcase, and auction.
To be held at the SoFA Design Institute, Proscenium Retail Row in Makati City, the event aims to celebrate the significance and rich history of Philippine jewelry artistry and craft.
Here, you can learn the art of jewelry making from notable Filipino jewelers such as Gigi Bermejo from Maria Angelica MNL; Fai Co and Knoi Esmane from Hoseki Jewelry Art; Maureen Yap from House of Amira Lakshmi; and Jay Cadayona and Kat Nantes from Love, Kat & Jay Jewelry.
You'll also be able to collections from other jewelry and art brands, including Ocampo’s Fine Jewelry, Piesa, SilverWorks, Luxapalooza Jewelry and Accessories, and Pulido by Charming Baldemor Studios.
Want something more exclusive? Get the chance to auction a 1800 Spanish colonial necklace of tambourin beads and pearls (starting at P65,000), a bright citrine ring surrounded by old mine cut diamonds set in 14-karat gold (starting at P85,000), a detailed wooden handbag carved with weaving and crochet (starting at P69,000), an event exclusive abstract painting collection by artist Kankan Ramos (starting at P50,000), or a painting from abstract artist Lala Jara Tuazon (starting at P35,000).
Tickets to the event start at P3,000, which includes access to the jewelry talk, showcase, and auction, with complimentary cocktails. Meanwhile, Gold ticket (P4,500) holders have added access to a personalized valuation and consultation with the designers when they bring their old jewelry and a complimentary ambigram design.
You can purchase your tickets here. The event will take place on Aug. 8 at 3:00 p.m.
Aug. 8: Lakad Kalikasan: The Threat of SALEX
Want to explore Manila while supporting a good cause? Join Lakad Kalikasan: The Threat of SALEX, a guided heritage and advocacy walk through Paco, Ermita, and Malate on Aug. 8.
Organized by Renacimiento Manila in partnership with the Nilad Community, the tour will take participants from Paco Park to Malate Church, tracing the proposed route of the Southern Access Link Expressway (SALEX). Along the way, attendees will learn how the project could affect historic landmarks, public spaces, and communities in the area, while gaining a deeper appreciation of Manila's rich cultural heritage.
The walk runs from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Registration costs P500 per person, with proceeds going toward the heritage campaigns of Renacimiento and the Nilad Community.
You can register through this link.
Aug. 8 to 9: Otaku Expo Tanabata Festival
Anime, manga, and pop culture fans can meanwhile head to SM Megamall's Megatrade Halls for the Otaku Expo Tanabata Festival happening on Aug. 8 and 9.
You can browse a wide selection of merchandise, collectibles, hobby items, and exclusive event offerings from various exhibitors.
There will also be a wide array of activities that are sure to delight anime and cosplay enthusiasts, including a kimono cosplay, otaku singing contest, battle of the bands, on-the-spot art contest, and more.
Tickets are priced at P299.
Aug. 7 to 9: Asian Eats 2026
For good eats, head over to Asian Eats 2026 at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-La Plaza from Aug. 7 to 9 and explore flavors from across the region.
The three-day event brings together food vendors representing countries such as Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, India, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, and the Philippines.
But not only that—guests can also catch live cooking demonstrations from renowned chefs and culinary partners.
What's even more appetizing is that admission is entirely free.
Aug. 6 to 9: The District Archive
If you love vintage shopping and hunting for one-of-a-kind finds, check out The District Archive, a flea market happening at the Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center until Aug. 9.
You can explore racks of pre-loved and vintage clothing, shop from local brands, and discover unique accessories and collectibles. There are food stalls to choose from, too, if you want to take a break and grab a bite.