8 Best Ways to Celebrate New Year 2025 in Manila

Xperience Team
25 Dec 2024 - 5 min read

As 2025 approaches, Manila is the perfect place to welcome the New Year with excitement. From the sparkling Chinatown, where you can savour delicious dishes and experience the local traditions, to the rich heritage of Intramuros, there are countless ways to celebrate. Looking for a more modern vibe? Head to Bonifacio Global City (BGC), where fun events and rooftop parties will keep the energy high all night long. And if you’re after glamour and entertainment, Resorts World Manila is a luxurious space for a spectacular celebration. With endless options for fun, culture, food, and fireworks, you’re sure to find the perfect way to welcome 2025 in Manila! 🎊🎁

1. Joyful Celebration in Chinatown

Manila’s Chinatown, also known as Binondo, comes alive during New Year’s Eve with its streets, energy, and cultural appeal. Celebrate the occasion by taking a tour and enjoying authentic Chinese delicacies, exploring colourful street markets, and enjoying the vibes. Don't miss out on the local tradition of buying lucky charms to welcome prosperity into the new year. To get there, take a jeepney, taxi, or ride-hailing service to Ongpin Street, the heart of Chinatown. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite because this area is a food lover's paradise.

Manila Chinatown Guided Street Food Tasting Tour | Philippines

Binondo

SGD 88

2. Cultural Exploration in Intramuros

Step back in time and celebrate New Year’s Eve with a cultural twist by visiting Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city. Enjoy a guided tour or walk through cobblestone streets illuminated by festive lights. Admire the colonial-era architecture, visit landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church and join special cultural events or countdowns happening nearby. Reach Intramuros easily via jeepney, bus, or ride-hailing services, and bring a camera to capture its timeless charm. It's a perfect way to start the new year with a mix of history and festivity!

Intramuros Shared Half-Day Tour in Manila | Philippines

Intramuros

SGD 85

3. Spectacular Countdown at Rizal Park

Rizal Park is a historic spot in Manila, offering a family-friendly and relaxed atmosphere for welcoming the new year. With a stunning view of the surrounding gardens and monuments, it transforms into a hub for the New Year’s Eve countdown. Join the crowds in enjoying musical performances, live entertainment, and a fireworks display to mark the moment. It's easy to get to Rizal Park via taxi, jeepney, or the LRT-1, alighting at the Rizal Park station. If you're looking for a more laid-back celebration, bring a picnic blanket and settle down to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

4. Luxurious Dinner Cruise on Manila Bay

For those seeking a more refined and glamorous way to ring in 2025, a dinner cruise on Manila Bay is a perfect choice. Set sail into the evening on a luxurious boat, enjoying a tasty buffet with stunning views of the bay and the sunset. As the clock ticks down, you’ll have front-row seats to the fireworks show illuminating the skyline. To get there, head to Manila’s Harbour Square or the Mall of Asia, where many of the cruise operators are based. This elegant experience is perfect for couples or anyone looking for a unique celebration on the water.

5. Enchanting Night at Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) known as Fort Bonifacio is a modern district that comes alive with energy during New Year’s Eve celebrations. Known for its beautiful parks, high-end shops, and restaurants, BGC has an enchanting atmosphere with live performances, lights, and street parties. The streets and rooftops host some of the best countdown events in Manila, where you can enjoy a fashionable night out with friends and family. To get there, simply hop on the Bonifacio Global City buses, or take a ride if you're coming from other parts of Metro Manila. It's an ideal spot for those who want to celebrate with something for everyone to enjoy.

6. Exciting Countdown Events at Malls

Manila's malls are known for their grand New Year celebrations, and this year, the excitement is bigger than ever. Top shopping centres such as SM Mall of Asia, Greenbelt, and Eastwood Mall are hosting fantastic countdown parties with performances from local artists, live bands, and a spectacular fireworks display to cap off the evening. Whether you're out for some last-minute shopping, savouring gourmet meals, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, these malls provide an exciting setting for welcoming 2025. Easily accessible by car, public transport, or MRT, the malls are a go-to option for those who prefer a fun celebration.

7. Peaceful Escape at Antipolo Overlooking Manila

For those seeking a peaceful way to ring in the new year, Antipolo offers a quiet retreat with breathtaking views of Metro Manila. Known for its cool mountain breeze and the stunning sight of the city below, this peaceful escape is perfect for a more laid-back celebration. Spend the evening at one of the many hilltop resorts or restaurants, where you can enjoy a cosy dinner while watching the fireworks from afar. To get there, it's just a short drive from Manila, making it an easy and relaxing getaway. Antipolo is ideal for those who want to celebrate away from the bustling city noise, offering a calm setting to welcome 2025.

8. Fun Family Gatherings at Resorts World Manila

If you're looking for a family-friendly atmosphere to celebrate the new year, Resorts World Manila is the place to be. This entertainment hub is home to luxurious hotels, top-notch restaurants, a casino, and live shows, making it an exciting destination for all ages. Families can enjoy festive meals, catch live performances, and join in the countdown celebrations at the mall area, which features performances and an exciting fireworks display. With easy access from the airport and a wealth of activities for both adults and children, Resorts World Manila promises a fun and memorable New Year’s Eve celebration for the whole family.

Flight to Manila

Tue, 13 May 2025

Jetstar Asia Airways

Singapore (SIN) to Manila (MNL)

Start from SGD 133.00

Sun, 25 May 2025

AirAsia Philippines

Cebu (CEB) to Manila (MNL)

Start from SGD 51.29

Mon, 12 May 2025

Scoot

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Manila (MNL)

Start from SGD 104.35

Can't contain your excitement to welcome 2025 in Manila? The city is alive with exciting spots for every kind of New Year's celebration. From street festivals to chic parties, make the most of your celebration by booking flights, hotels, and attractions with Traveloka for an effortless experience. Your unforgettable New Year’s adventure is just a click away!

In This Article

• 1. Joyful Celebration in Chinatown
• 2. Cultural Exploration in Intramuros
• 3. Spectacular Countdown at Rizal Park
• 4. Luxurious Dinner Cruise on Manila Bay
• 5. Enchanting Night at Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
• 6. Exciting Countdown Events at Malls
• 7. Peaceful Escape at Antipolo Overlooking Manila
• 8. Fun Family Gatherings at Resorts World Manila

Flights Featured in This Article

Tue, 13 May 2025
Jetstar Asia Airways
Singapore (SIN) to Manila (MNL)
Start from SGD 133.00
Book Now
Sun, 25 May 2025
AirAsia Philippines
Cebu (CEB) to Manila (MNL)
Start from SGD 51.29
Book Now
Mon, 12 May 2025
Scoot
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Manila (MNL)
Start from SGD 104.35
Book Now
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