Independence Day is only a few days away. And while some people look to this holiday as a much-needed break from work, there are also recreational things you can do on this day to commemorate our country’s freedom. Because who said you could only celebrate Independence Day in Rizal Park?

Here are a few suggestions on how you could spend the weekend leading up to it, the day itself and the days after.

Conversations on Conservation with Ar. Jeffrey Cobilla – June 9

The conservation of the country’s heritage sites is a pressing issue not only because of last month’s celebration of Heritage Month but also because of the current state of many local sites which are left neglected.

Hosted by the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, the talk with Architect Jeffrey Cobilla of the Escuela Taller de Filipinas Foundation will center on the foundation’s efforts to restore several churches in the country.

BAYANIhan: For the Kids of Hero Foundation – June 10

Kids age 0-12 can enjoy free admission to the Ayala Museum from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. when they donate a toy, as the Greenbelt Ayala Museum Experience (G.A.M.E.) pays tribute to our country’s fallen heroes and their families.

There are also activities for participants including an artist talk and workshop with Alwin Reamillo, the creator of the art installation called the Bayanihan Hopping Spirit House.

One Sound PH: Independence Day Concert – June 11

Mondays could be particularly stressful most of the time, but what better motivation is there than a non-working holiday the next day, and a free concert to look forward to after work?

Catch more than a dozen local acts in this year’s One Sound PH Independence Day concert happening at Greenfield District Mayflower Open Parking with four other satellite stages across Kapitolyo and Ortigas Center.

The Manila Cathedral Open House and Guided Tour – June 12

To celebrate their 60th anniversary, the Manila Cathedral will be holding an open house event on Independence Day from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. where guests will have a free guided tour of their facilities and first dibs on the cathedral’s new coloring book, Prisms of Faith which features their post-war stained glass windows designed by Filipino artist Galo B. Ocampo.

Fujifilm Photowalk Contest – June 12

If you are okay with crowds and walking, and well, photography, you might wanna join Fujifilm’s Photowalk Contest this Independence Day in Luneta Park and get a chance to have your winning photo printed. This year’s theme is about Independence Day and what’s a more perfect spot to find an inspiration than Rizal Park. If you don’t own a professional camera, that’s okay too because you can also use your smartphone to take photos and join the contest on June 12.

What are your plans for Independence Day?

Photo courtesy of Inquirer.net

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