LIST: 7 Free things to do in Metro Manila during the long weekend
Who's Team Bahay this long weekend?
With delegates flying in from around the globe for the 19th ASEAN Summit, roads in Pasay and Parañaque are bound to get heavily congested. Because of this, Malacañang has declared November 16 to 18 special non-working holidays across the NCR.
While many are already packing their bags for an out-of-town escape this long weekend, staying behind in the Metro actually has its perks—especially if you’re on a budget.
From the hustle and bustle of work and academic life, we've got a list of some of the things the metro has to offer in the coming days to help you unwind. The best part? They’re all free.
Chill at Arroceros Forest Park in Ermita
Escape the chaotic cityscape of Manila and explore the city’s hidden gem.
Dubbed “Manila's last lung,” Arroceros Forest Park is situated in one of the busiest parts of Manila. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it place, and a worthy find once you enter.
The historic site is filled with calming greenery, koi ponds, and different bird species to watch out for. Make sure to read the placards around the area, and for sure, you’ll find something interesting to behold. There’s also a riverside area overlooking the Quezon Bridge along the Pasig River, a view that you can kick back and relax to.
The park is only a 2-minute walk from LRT 1 Central Station, and you can explore around the little forest. Arroceros Forest Park is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Walking Tour at Fort Santiago
Want to reach your steps goal this long weekend? How about experiencing some history while you’re at it?
You can take free guided walking tours of Fort Santiago. The walled city is filled not just with sights but also with learning experiences for history enthusiasts, families, friends, and even solo adventurers.
The walk takes place on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and lasts about an hour.
Those interested may sign up for a slot at the Visitors Center for the Fort Santiago tour. Keep in mind that it is on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are only 25 slots per batch, so you'd better be quick to register!
There’s also a site entrance fee of P75, or P50 if discounted. If you’re bringing a vehicle, take note that Intramuros has a stop-and-go scheme.
Dalaw at Sayaw at Pasig River Esplanade
As you take in the sights of the Pasig River Esplanade, the talented La Manila Dance Ambassadors & Rondalla are set to serenade the afternoon with their "Dalaw at Sayaw" performance.
The troupe will be performing folk dances and music for audiences to enjoy. Whether you’re going on a date, visiting with family, or just passing through, you would not want to miss this display of Filipino talent and culture.
The performance will take place on Nov. 15 at 4 p.m. at the Plaza Mexico area in Pasig River Esplanade.
QCinema at the Park
It’s QCinema season once more, and this year, the movie experience goes beyond dark movie theatres and moves into the scenic Quezon Memorial Circle!
Get a chance to experience the 90s classic Magic Kingdom: Ang Alamat ng Damortis alongside fellow film lovers and nature.
The film begins at 5 p.m., so grab your snacks, find the best spot to cozy up, and relax the whole evening.
Watch free movies at QCinema
Are you a cinephile on a budget? We got you.
No reason to feel left out of the QCinema hype, because the annual film festival is screening free local and international films for you to catch for its 2026 run! So get your Letterboxd accounts ready to watch classics and discover new titles to enjoy.
The film festival has screenings all across the city. In Gateway, you can watch films like Jaguar (dir. Lino Brocka), Sister Stella L. (dir. Mike de Leon), Union Town (dir. Barbara Kopple), and To the Moon and Back (dir. Elisa Gómez Alvarez) on Nov. 17, 18, and 21, depending on their scheduled dates.
Fisher Mall has got films like I Deserve a Lover Whose Every Rise Sets Fiery Dooms Raging Across the Skies (dir. Mani Haghighi) on Nov. 19 and A is for Agustin (dir. Grace Simbulan) on Nov. 20. They’ll also be screening the collection of QC Shorts 2026 Grantees on Nov. 20.
Meanwhile, Robinsons Galleria also has a screening of Union Town on Nov. 16 and the QC Shorts 2026 Grantees collection on Nov. 17. They’ll also have the film The Illusion of an Everlasting Summer (dir. Alessandra Sanguinetti) on Nov. 18.
You can check the full schedule here. Tickets are also available for purchase through the QCinema-provided forms.
Concert at the Park at Rizal Park
The historical landmark is home to many cultural events and happenings—this weekend is no exception. The "Yugto: Where Movement Lives On," from the 4th Manila International Dance Festival, will bring the best Filipino talent for you to see.
The event takes place on Nov. 15 at 5:30 p.m. at the Open-Air Auditorium at Rizal Park.
Catch a ride at the Pasig River Ferry
Trade the city streets for ferry trips.
The Pasig River Ferry will continue its free operations throughout the long weekend. If you’re adventurous enough, perhaps you can get off at a random station to explore the city on your own terms. You have many stops to choose from, including Escolta, Quezon Bridge, Quinta, and more.
Don’t forget to bring your I.D. for checking to ride. You’ll only need to write on the station’s logbook and wait for your ferry to arrive. Opening and closing hours vary by station. Some open at 7 a.m., while the latest closing is usually at 5:20 p.m., so be sure to arrive an hour before to be safe.