(SPOT.ph) For the cynic, Valentine's Day is a special holiday invented by capitalists who wish to sell you a dozen of roses, huge blocks of chocolate, and a whole bag of stuffed toys to give to your S.O. But really, it’s a celebration of love in whatever way possible, even if it's just spending the afternoon at the park with your special someone—all for free. And yes, you can do this at Rizal Park in Manila on February 14 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. during Love in the Park: A Valentine's Day Special.
Start your afternoon by hopping on a replica of a 19th-century tranvia (a.k.a. tram or streetcar) from Fort Santiago to Rizal Park. While you're there, listen to buskers from Alab at Sinag Pilipinas who are setting the mood in the Walled City until 11 p.m. You can also stop by Plaza Roma, Plazuela de Sta. Isabel, Plaza San Luis, Presidents' Gallery in Intramuros.
As soon as you reach Rizal Park, you can get a henna tattoo or have your portrait sketched for free at the Noli Me Tangere Garden. By sundown, singer-songwriter Raffy Calicdan, acoustic duo Giacoustic, Anna Aquino, Ask Karol, and spoken word artists Skye and Lakan will captivate the audience with some music and poetry to end the romantic night.
Love in the Park: A Valentine's Day Special is on February 14, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Noli Me Tangere Garden, Central Section, Rizal Park, Malate, Manila. For more information, follow National Parks Development Committee on Facebook.
