For The First-Timers, For The Love Of Art

Two decades of art, community, and creativity—Art in the Park returns with more artists, more stories, and more reasons for first-timers to finally step into the world of art.

Words Gerie Marie Consolacion
Photos courtesy of Coleen Wong
March 16, 2026

Twenty years ago, in 2006, Art in the Park held its first event. Two decades later, it has grown into one of the country’s longest-running and most beloved public art fairs. For its 20th anniversary, the celebration is even bigger, with more artists, galleries, and creative works filling the park.

For anyone who loves art, or is simply curious about it—it’s the perfect place to start.

The goal this year? Attend as many art exhibits and events as we can. But from a first-timer’s perspective, walking into a museum, gallery, or art fair can feel a little overwhelming. Your eyes wander from painting to painting, sculpture to sculpture. You read unfamiliar names of artists and wonder what their stories are. Slowly, you realize you’re stepping into a completely different world.

Some people believe events like this are only for the wealthy. Why buy a painting when you could spend your money on something more “practical?”

But that’s exactly why people should attend free art events like this—to immerse themselves in the reality of art and the artists behind it.

For the first-timers

Across different cities, there are countless exhibits, museums, and fairs centered on art. But what makes Art in the Park perfect for beginners?

First, it’s open to everyone. No tickets required. No pressure to buy anything.

You can simply walk around, explore the booths, talk to artists, discover styles you like, and maybe even make new friends along the way.

And if you do fall in love with something? The prices are surprisingly accessible. Artworks can start as low as ₱300 and go up to ₱70,000, making it possible for new collectors to take home their first piece.

You’ll find everything—from stickers, shirts, tote bags, mugs, books, ceramics, and paintings. Some are on canvas, others on paper plates, small sheets of paper, or even tiny pieces of wood. Art doesn’t have to be grand or intimidating; sometimes it’s small, playful, and affordable.

And if you don’t have a budget this year, that’s perfectly fine. You can always come back next year.

Museums are always there to visit, but Art in the Park happens only once a year. It’s a rare chance to see hundreds of artists, different styles, and diverse creative voices all in one place.

For the love of art

One of the best things about the event is the crowd.

You’ll see Gen Z couples exploring the booths together, millennials enjoying a peaceful Sunday afternoon, and elderly couples having the sweetest little park dates while looking for their next artwork to bring home.

And sometimes, you might even bump into celebrities.

Earlier that day, I spotted the couple Mikael Daez and Megan Young with their child. I also saw volleyball star Alyssa Valdez chatting with internet personality Mimiyuuuh.

Among the crowd were also singer Apl.de.Ap, veteran actor Cris Villanueva, photographer Geloy Concepcion, and even Risa Hontiveros with her children.

But what’s interesting is that celebrities blend right in with everyone else. In the park, everyone is simply there for the same reason: to appreciate art.

You can come alone, with friends, or with family. Strike up conversations, discover new artists, and share your favorite finds with strangers who might soon become friends.

No one is forcing you to spend money. The experience is entirely yours. It’s simply a gathering of people connected by one thing: their love of art.

Same time next year?

Whether next year will be your first, second, or tenth time attending Art in the Park, there’s no reason to feel nervous about going.

You don’t need to buy anything to belong there. What matters is the experience—the feeling of discovering something new, meeting artists, and seeing creativity up close.

Who knows? Maybe next year you’ll come back with a bigger budget or maybe you’ll just come back for the same reason as everyone else: for the love of art.

So if you ever find yourself wondering whether art fairs are “for you,” the answer might be waiting at Art in the Park. Bring a friend, bring your curiosity, and maybe even bring a little pocket money, just in case a small piece of art decides to follow you home. And if not, that’s okay too. The park will be waiting again next year.