Looking for plans this week? Whether you’re craving a cool Tagaytay escape, a star-studded basketball match, or a fresh pair of sneakers, here’s what to check out across Metro Manila and beyond.
Watch the Smurfs on the big screen
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Opening July 16 in cinemas nationwide, Smurfs returns in animated glory with a powerhouse voice cast led by Rihanna as Smurfette. This time, Smurfette leads the gang into the real world to rescue Papa Smurf (John Goodman) from evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel. Directed by Chris Miller and featuring the voices of James Corden, Nick Offerman, Sandra Oh, Daniel Levy, Octavia Spencer, Xolo Maridueña, and Marshmello, the film promises magic, mayhem, and plenty of blue chaos for audiences young and old.
Eat your heart out at Tagaytay Food Festival
From July 18 to 20, food lovers are headed for the hills as the Tagaytay Food Festival unfolds at Taal Vista Hotel. With the theme Food That Binds, this year’s festival focuses on community and culinary heritage.
Ease into the weekend with the Drinks Fest and a Grand Tasting dinner on July 18 featuring elevated takes on Filipino flavors.
On July 19, join food historian Ige Ramos for a guided Cavite City Food Heritage Tour, followed by Food Talks featuring top chefs like Kevin Navoa, Tina Legarda, and Stephane Duhesme. All weekend long, enjoy heritage lunches at the Veranda, laid-back Sunset Sessions at Taza Fresh Table, and standout chef collabs like the dinner at The Fatted Calf with Singapore's Chef Hafizzul Hashim.
On July 20, you can brunch at Samira by Chele at Anya Resort or enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired lunch with Chef Marco Anzani at Ville Sommet. Close the weekend with Sinta, a soulful collaborative dinner from chefs Ariel Manuel, Bettina Arguelles, and the PYC Foods Group.
Cheer for your faves at the Star Magic All-Star Games
It’s game time at the Big Dome on July 20 as the annual Star Magic All-Star Games return to Araneta Coliseum. Expect a high-energy afternoon as Kapamilya stars like Donny Pangilinan, Gerald Anderson, Loisa Andalio, Seth Fedelin, and Vivoree Esclito bring friendly competition to the court. Gates open at 3 PM, with tickets available via TicketNet.
Get smitten with 'Ghosting' on iWant
Streaming starts July 19 on the newly relaunched iWant platform, with Ghosting, a romantic supernatural series starring Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra. The story follows a heartbroken student who escapes to her grandmother’s provincial home, only to fall for a mysterious young man — who may or may not be a ghost. Directed by Ted Boborol, Ghosting is an 8-episode mix of kilig, kababalaghan, and heartache, and marks the pair’s first outing as an onscreen love team.
Score sneaker deals at Keds birthday sale
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Until July 20, treat yourself (and your bestie) with Keds’ biggest sale yet: Buy 1, Get 1 Free on selected styles in all Keds concept stores nationwide. Whether you’re eyeing platform sneakers, leather slip-ons, or gingham classics, it’s the perfect excuse to upgrade your shoe game.
Don’t miss the Claw Machine Caravan, which lands in Trinoma this week from July 16 to 22 — every purchase earns you a shot at fun prizes.
Rock out with The Panturas in Makati
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On July 19, Indonesia’s surf rock sensations The Panturas take the stage at Sari Sari in Makati for their first-ever Manila show. Known for their vintage riffs and psychedelic garage-punk energy, the band will be joined by local indie mainstays Oh, Flamingo!, Pikoy, and We Are Imaginary. It’s the kickoff to their 2025 Asian tour and a must-see for Manila’s gig-goers. Limited pre-sale tickets are priced at P400.
Watch theater under the stars at Intramuros Evenings
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Also on July 19, CCP’s Out of the Box series presents a special staging of Ganito Na Kami Noon, Paano Na Ngayon? at Centro de Turismo in Intramuros. Inspired by works from National Artists Alejandro Roces, F. Sionil Jose, and Eddie Romero, the play follows Kulas, an aging farmer who wrestles with questions of identity, memory, and history.
It’s free and open to the public, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis — so come early and enjoy this open-air cultural experience in Old Manila.
See bold abstractions at ‘BRAINSTORM 3’
Opening July 19 at 4 PM at Imahica Art Gallery, BRAINSTORM 3 is a sweeping group show of abstract works from over 40 artists, including Sam Penaso, Jay Ragma, Nancy Lee, and Jao Mapa. Curated by Janddie Castillo, the show invites viewers to explore emotion and meaning through color, gesture, and form — from chaos to clarity. If you’re looking to be moved or inspired, this is your weekend dose of visual energy.
Refresh your bathroom with American Standard anniversary sale
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Until July 31, American Standard celebrates 150 years with up to 10% off on select bathroom collections at participating dealers nationwide. Discover modern, stylish, and thoughtful designs from the Acacia Supasleek, Signature, and Evolution collections, or upgrade your daily routine with smart innovations like the new Smart Washer bidet. It’s more than a sale — it’s a tribute to the everyday comforts that define home.
Toast the universe at Solaire Resort North
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Solaire Resort North’s Skybar unveils a new lineup of Celestial Cocktails designed to transport your senses. From the citrusy sparkle of Solar and Lunar, to the lush floral notes of Rose Skies, to the deep, smoky flavors of Midgard, each drink is a journey unto itself. Sip your way through the stars with six new creations and four reinvented Skybar classics.
The ambiance — rooftop views, moonlight, and moody music — makes this the ideal setting for a night out that’s anything but ordinary.