The calendar is serving up thrills, chills, and a little magic this week. From Halloween raves and family musicals to an epic concert, there’s no shortage of reasons to step out and celebrate. Here’s what’s worth doing this spooky season:
1. Feel the magic with Jackson Wang’s ‘Magicman 2’
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Global pop powerhouse Jackson Wang is bringing his electrifying “Magicman 2” world tour to Manila. The Hong Kong-born singer-songwriter, known for his bold visuals and genre-bending sound, promises a night packed with new music and high-energy performances. Eexpect a full house when Wang takes the stage. November 2 at the Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City
2. Step into the swamp with ‘Shrek the Musical’
The holidays get a dose of green with Newport World Resorts’ grand staging of “Shrek the Musical.” Directed by Dexter Santos, the production reimagines the beloved DreamWorks story with lavish stagecraft, life-sized puppetry, and humor that hits both kids and grownups. With Jamie Wilson, Krystal Kane, Topper Fabregas, and Alfredo Reyes leading the cast, this ogre-sized show is a hilarious, heartfelt kickoff to the Christmas season. Opens October 31 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Newport World Resorts
3. Party all night at &Friends Halloween Rave 2025
Asia’s biggest electronic music names descend on Okada Manila for &Friends Halloween, a two-stage festival featuring over 50 artists including Knock2, Dabin, BEAUZ, and Sabai. Expect a full-sensory experience with themed challenges, trick-or-treat stations, and massive beats that’ll keep you dancing till sunrise. October 31 at Okada Manila
4. Return to Derry — if you dare
The terror continues with Episode 2 of “IT: Welcome to Derry,” the HBO original series expanding the universe of Stephen King’s classic horror. Directed by Andy Muschietti, the show dives deeper into the origins of Pennywise and the cursed town that made him. Perfect for Halloween binge-watchers craving something chilling. Streaming October 31 on HBO Max
5. Trick-or-treat with trolls at DreamPlay
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Kids (and kids-at-heart) can join Poppy and Branch for “Troll or Treat,” the annual Halloween bash at DreamPlay. Families can enjoy a costume parade, trick-or-treat across The Shoppes at the Boulevard, and a chance to win prizes including an overnight stay at Hyatt Regency Manila. November 1 at DreamPlay, City of Dreams Manila
6. Go on a spellbinding island adventure at Discovery Samal
Escape to Discovery Samal for “Black Magic,” a Halloween celebration filled with themed games, a bubble show, trick-or-treat fun, and a human claw machine. Complete with boat transfers, buffet lunch, and activities for all ages, it’s a festive tropical getaway that ends with a costume parade and prizes. October 31, Discovery Samal, Davao del Norte
7. Spend a family day filled with music at Concert at the Park
Start November on a high note with “Concert at the Park: Children, Rhythm and Songs,” featuring the San Juan Nepomuceno Band on its 60th anniversary. Under the baton of Maestro Herminigildo G. Ranera and Associate Conductor Maestro Ramil Ranera, the band will perform a joyful, family-friendly set that includes beloved Disney favorites. After the concert, stick around for Rizal Park’s Musical Dancing Fountain — a dazzling treat for kids and kids-at-heart. Admission is free. November 2, 5:30 p.m. at the Open-Air Auditorium, Rizal Park
8. Go carb-crazy with Mama Lou’s Endless Pasta
It’s that time again — Mama Lou’s Endless Pasta is back for a limited run! From October 31 to November 2, pasta lovers can enjoy unlimited servings of their favorite dishes across select branches, from BGC and Manila Bay to Tagaytay and Pampanga. Whether you’re craving classic carbonara or a hearty bolognese, this annual promo is your license to indulge, no questions asked. Check out the full mechanics on Mama Lou’s official pages before you dig in. October 31 to November 2 at select Mama Lou’s branches nationwide