The basics
If you fancy partying amidst tropical gardens rather than, say, a muddy farm, then head to the Philippines and soak up some international culture.
The festival
A festival at the foothills of a mountain isn't something you hear about every day (unless you work for Malasimbo), so this festival can count itself as a rare experience.
However, the main centrepiece of this festival is the grass-terraced amphitheatre that cascades down towards the main stage. It also overlooks a breathtaking bay, which is recognised as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Even more beautiful than Michael Bay.
Malasimbo has what it calls its 'Four Pillars', which are Music, Arts, Environment, and Indigenous People. They aim to showcase the Filipino heritage and they do this with a conservationist approach, which basically means they give a portion of their proceeds to charity. They help reforestation initiatives and also provided a whole nearby village with solar power.
So you're helping save the world if you go to this festival, which is a GREAT excuse.
Our tip
If you want somewhere nice and warm to stay, then head on over HERE and book a place. Sleeping on the beach is never as clever as it first sounds.
Watch
Lineup
Full lineup here.
Getting there
How do I get there?
BY CAR: From Manila, proceed south along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX or South Superhighway). From the Makati EDSA flyover it is approximately 40km to the Calamba toll plaza. From there proceed 3.1km to the Calamba exit and exit to the right towards Sto Thomas and Batangas. Continue towards Sto Thomas for 7.5km where you will see a large green sign on your right pointing to the new STAR Tollway to Batangas. Follow the signs for Batangas.
Parking at Berberabe Beach is P50 per night in an open but locked area.
BY BUS: Bus companies that go to the Manila-Batangas Pier are found in the following stations in Metro Manila:
JAM and ALPS Transit – Buendia
2124 Taft Avenue, Pasay City
JAM/TriTan/ ALPS – Cubao
831 EDSA, Kamuning, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Quezon CityTickets cost 167 to 175 pesos, one-way. Buses leave when full (approximately every 20 minutes).
PUBLIC FERRY: Upon arrival in Batangas Pier, there are ferries and outrigger boats going to Puerto Galera. Please check at the terminal counters for the schedule of departures. The ferries and outrigger boats usually leave Batangas Pier every half hour or 1 hour, though the timetables may change. It is advisable to phone them for confirmation.
The major passenger ferries are Minolo Shipping Lines (MSL) and Father and Son Shipping Lines (FSL). Ferries and outrigger boats to Puerto Galera have different destinations- Muelle Port, Sabang Beach, and White Beach Balatero & Minolo Port. White Beach is the closest landing point to Mount Malasimbo.
Tickets
Pricing
Onsale dates/prices:
Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival Tickets: 3-Day Pass – 4,995 Php
Malasimbo Lights & Dance Festival Tickets – Php 4,495
When can I get them?
Tickets on sale now
Where can I get them?
Tickets are available from the website.