Intramuros, Manila’s historic Walled City, is set to transform into a vibrant hub of culture and commerce as it hosts its inaugural Intramuros Summer Festival on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The event, organized by the Intramuros Administration (IA) in celebration of its 46th founding anniversary, aims to position the district not only as a heritage destination but also as a dynamic space for families, music lovers, wellness enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs.
A strategic move for tourism and local business
The festival marks the start of what the IA envisions as an annual tradition, designed to invigorate the district and attract a broad spectrum of visitors. With summer in full swing, the event is expected to draw significant foot traffic, providing a boost to local businesses through increased demand for food, crafts, and tourism services.
From sunrise to evening, activities will unfold across key heritage sites, with Plaza Moriones in Fort Santiago serving as the main stage. The festival’s program is designed to maximize both cultural engagement and economic impact, featuring a pop-up market along Gen. Luna Street, Fort Santiago, and the Riverwalk, where vendors will showcase regional delicacies and handmade crafts.
Festival highlights: Wellness, heritage, and music
The day kicks off at 7:30 a.m. with a Zumba session led by fitness coaches husband and wife duo Jim and Toni Saret, followed by a colorful parade of student performers in traditional and creative costumes. A medical mission organized by the University of Santo Tomas Health Service will provide free health screenings for the community, underlining the festival’s commitment to social impact.
Heritage programming includes storytelling sessions for children at Centro de Turismo Intramuros and “Living Museum” reenactments at Casa Manila, offering immersive experiences that blend history with contemporary creativity.
The festival culminates in the Sinag Concert at Plaza Moriones from 6 to 10 p.m., headlined by popular Filipino acts such as Itchyworms, Over October, and Earl Agustin. Student talents from local schools will serve as front acts, reinforcing the festival’s community-oriented approach.
Intramuros Passport: Driving cultural tourism
A major initiative launching alongside the festival is the Intramuros Passport. Priced at ₱350, the passport grants access to five major heritage sites, encouraging deeper exploration while supporting heritage preservation. The program is expected to generate additional revenue streams for the district and its stakeholders. The passport has no expiry date and special tokens and prizes await visitors upon purchase and from partner establishments during the festival.
Sustained engagement beyond summer
The IA has announced a robust calendar of events for the remainder of the year, including the Grand Santacruzan and soft opening of the Intramuros Convention Center on May 23, the Likha Fair in June, and the Fiesta de Intramuros in September. Regular cultural shows, performances, and educational tours will continue, ensuring sustained visitor engagement and ongoing opportunities for local enterprises.
To further its commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, the Intramuros Administration (IA) has formalized partnerships with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and Philippine Ballet Theatre through a ceremonial signing held earlier today. These collaborations will bring back the celebrated Intramuros Evenings—an acclaimed series of cultural performances from the late 1990s—and reintroduce ballet productions within the historic district.
With its blend of cultural programming, community outreach, and commercial opportunities, the Intramuros Summer Festival signals a new era for the Walled City—one where history and modern enterprise go hand in hand.
For schedules and updates, follow the Intramuros Administration on social media or visit their official website.
