Manila (CNN Philippines Life) — This weekend, get a head start on your Christmas shopping; binge-watch movies and TV series while experiencing local craftsmanship and good food; visit an artist’s second solo exhibition; go to Giniling Festival’s album launch; see Gawad Urian nominees and winners; declare your love for cream-filled snack cakes at a reunion show for a joint EP; hoard some discounted books; and buy offbeat finds at a handmade arts and crafts fair.
Zalora’s Christmas in July
The online fashion emporium Zalora one-ups malls across the country, which are known to begin playing Christmas carols on repeat by September, by greeting people, “Happy holidays!” as early as July. Whether you’re celebrating the beginning of the second half of the year or want to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, the website is here for you, marking down its most stylish pieces — clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories from the likes of Bench, Mango, Nike, and Zalora’s in-house brand — at holiday prices. For two weeks, from July 15 to 31, customers get to enjoy up to 70 percent off on select items, as well as free delivery for orders above ₱995, free returns on items up to 30 days after they were purchased, and convenient payment options such as cash on delivery.
You Cut Me Off Midfunk!
If an event is named after a quote from the “Freaks and Geeks” character Bill Haverchuck, you know you’re in for a good time. Hosted by Guava Sketches, You Cut Me Off Midfunk! is a series of events and activities meant to celebrate local craftsmanship, good design, and individuality. From July 15 to July 19, for the event’s third series, you can get great finds from Guava Sketches and partner brands, have a taste of great food, listen to great music, and participate in a film and TV series marathon with other guests.
Partners include the fashion designer Carl Jan Cruz, BICE (Buccino’s Ice Cream Experiments), and the coffee shop Tipsy Beans. Entrance is free for the event, which will be held in The Open Space PH at 134 Jupiter St., Makati City.
“Badlands”
The second solo exhibition of the artist Ana Verayo, “Badlands,” opens on July 16. The series, a floor installation made up of ceramic tiles and house paint, has a distinct abstract imagery that brings concepts of space and psychedelia to mind. The exhibit will run through Oct. 1, 2016 in Light and Space Contemporary, located at 53 Fairlane St., West Fairview, Quezon City.
Giniling Festival’s “A La Hoy” Album Launch
Giniling Festival is back with a new album, “A La Hoy,” and to celebrate, they’re throwing a launch party on July 16 at SaGuijo Cafe + Bar. The band, along with Up Dharma Down, Maude, Yolanda Moon, The Charmes, and Sleepwalk Circus, will be playing live all night. Joyen Santos of Manila Burlesque will also be performing. Admission is ₱350, inclusive of a copy of the album. The first 100 guests get a free taco each from Mexikombi.
Gawad Urian 2016’s Best Films at Cinema ‘76
From July 15 to 21, Cinema ‘76 Film Society will be screening movies honored at the 2016 Gawad Urian Awards. These include Erik Matti’s “Honor Thy Father” and Lawrence Fajardo’s “Imbisibol,” both nominated for best picture, and the best picture itself, Brillante Mendoza’s “Taklub,” starring Nora Aunor. Tickets are ₱100 each.
Rubicon II (aka Agawan ng Whammo’s sa Mow’s Bar)
Tom’s Story, Monochrome, and Legarda come together once more for a reunion show that commemorates their joint EP, “Rubicon” — and perhaps their love for Whammo’s, the cream-filled cake bar that’s been sweeping the nation. Rounding out the lineup are Beast Jesus, Neverdie, HL/DV, and Sound Architects. The event will be held on July 15, 8 p.m., at Mow’s Bar.
10a Alabama Handmade Arts and Crafts Fair
The best eclectic handmade products — from mismatched-looking side tables, to recycled planters, to hand-painted bags and other offbeat and functional works of art — can be found at 10a Alabama, an art gallery. On July 16 and 17, it will be holding another handmade arts and crafts fair to showcase and sell these one-of-a-kind pieces. A book swap is also set to take place. 10a Alabama is actually named for its street address: It’s located at 10a Alabama St., Quezon City, which is accessible from E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave.
Fully Booked Bonifacio High Street Anniversary Sale
The folks at Fully Booked know that there’s always time for books — but even the best of us sometimes come up short on cash. In celebration of another great year for bibliophiles, the bookstore is holding an anniversary sale at its Bonifacio High Street branch from July 15 to 17, with discounts of up to 80 percent off on select titles. Its branch at The Block in SM North EDSA will also be on sale from July 14 to 17, and its Ayala Center Cebu branch will be on sale from July 15 to 17.