LIST: Exhibits and activities to explore for National Arts Month 2026
February isn't just a time for hearts and flowers, but it's also an opportunity to relive the wonders of art and creativity through the National Arts Month.
This observance was established through Presidential Proclamation No. 683, issued by former President Corazon Aquino in 1991. This year, the celebration follows the theme, "Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting," which underscores how art contributes to building livable communities, responsible governance, and a sustainable society.
To help you take part in the celebration, here are some must-see events, exhibits, and cultural experiences happening this February that highlight the vibrant spirit of Philippine arts and heritage:
Dwellings at Museo Pambata
The country's first children's interactive museum, Museo Pambata, has a new exhibit installed that will captivate both kids and kids at heart.
"Dwellings" is a large-scale, participatory installation by Filipino contemporary artists Alfredo and Isabel Aquilizan, which aims to spotlight the importance of children’s voices in conversations about home, place, and the futures we build together.
Built using cardboard, the artwork depicts an intricate cityscape composed of miniature houses, imaginative shelters, and towering structures that nearly reach the ceiling.
Alfredo explained in a promotional video that they used the material as it is "unassuming, readily available, and it carries with them the stories because each and every cardboard came from somewhere else already."
What's even better is that there is a station where children can craft their own cardboard masterpieces. According to Museo Pambata, they will be releasing information about the workshops soon.
"Dwellings" will be displayed at Museo Pambata for two years.
Museo Pambata is located along Roxas Boulevard, cor South Drive, Manila.
'Night at the Museum' experience at Nono Museum
Ever wondered what happens at the museum when the sun goes down? You can now find the answer at Nono Museum at the Angono Art Center in Rizal, as it opens its doors for a special "Night at the Museum" experience.
Visitors can enjoy this every Saturday and Sunday of the month: Feb. 14, 15, 21, 22, and 28 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Nono Museum is located at the Angono Lakeside Eco Park, Art Center 1st Floor, Barangay San Vicente, Angono, Rizal.
QCinema at the Park
Film lovers and culture enthusiasts also have their moment to shine this National Arts Month through QCinema at the Park.
Save the date for their "heART Edition" on Feb. 14 at 5 p.m. at the Quezon Memorial Circle.
You won't have to break open your wallet as the event is offering a free screening of their chosen movie.
ALT Art
The ALT Art fair is returning for its fourth edition this February with a bigger venue, expanded exhibitions, and dynamic public programs.
The fair will bring together nine of the country’s premier galleries—Artinformal, Blanc, The Drawing Room, Galleria Duemila, Finale Art File, MO_Space, Underground, Vinyl on Vinyl, and West Gallery—to offer a fresh perspective in art.
ALT Art 2026 will take place at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay from Feb. 13 to 15 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
"ALT ART 2026 promises yet another edition full of discoveries, continuing its mission to promote Philippine art and amplify artistic voices for local and international audiences, collectors, and art enthusiasts," the fair's description read.
Tickets are available both onsite and online and are priced at P500 for the general public and P250 for students.
Metropolitan Museum of Manila
Dates at the museum are always a fun way to celebrate Valentine's Day with your special someone.
The Metropolitan Museum of Manila is making the most of the love-filled season with their "Art for Two" offer, where visitors can get two all-access passes for just P550. This is available on Feb. 14 only.
Some of the exhibits you can enjoy at the museum include Painting Rules, where layered color and light unfold across large-scale works, Material Instincts, which explores abstraction in contemporary art, and more.
There are also free activities on Valentine's Day where you and your partner can draw a creative portrait of each other.
Maaram Talks
If you want to spend this time learning about the country's rich heritage and culture, you can listen in on Maaram Talks.
This is a series of documentaries on intangible cultural heritage funded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. For the second part of the series to be held on Feb. 27, they will showcase a documentary featuring the Antique National School Rondalla Ensemble.
You can register through this link. The activity will be held through Zoom from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
