Makati to welcome 2026 with ‘Makati in Full Color’ countdown on Ayala Avenue

Makati City is set to usher in 2026 with a large-scale, proudly Filipino New Year’s Eve celebration as Ayala Land, the local government of Makati, and Make It Makati roll out “Makati in Full Color: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2026.”

The event, part of the ongoing Makati in Color campaign, will take place on 31 December along Ayala Avenue, which will be closed to traffic starting 6 p.m. to give way to live performances, a street party, and the traditional countdown to the new year.

Organizers said the Ayala Avenue countdown, relaunched in 2023, continues its focus on spotlighting Filipino artists and homegrown talent, positioning the event as a people-first and proudly Pinoy celebration in one of the country’s most iconic business districts.

Headlining this year’s countdown are rock icon Ely Buendia and chart-topping band Cup of Joe, whose performances are expected to bridge generations of music fans. They will be joined by Morissette, Juan Karlos, Sofronio Vasquez III, the Divine Divas, and Theater Group Asia’s staging of A Chorus Line.

As midnight approaches, the Makati skyline will be lit up by a fireworks display paired with a Filipino-style ball drop, marking the arrival of 2026.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP tickets are available through TicketWorld, offering access to a dedicated lounge, buffet dinner, and prime viewing areas along the avenue.

The festivities will continue beyond midnight with a street party featuring DJ Cupcakes, followed by an after-party at Ayala Triangle Gardens with music by The Studio Dance Club.

Organizers said the event reflects Makati’s ongoing push to champion culture, creativity, and community, as the city once again opens its main thoroughfare for a shared public celebration.

“Makati in Full Color” is presented by Ayala Land, the local government of Makati, and Make It Makati, in partnership with Ayala Corporation, Globe Telecom, and Circuit Makati, with additional support from Avida.

Tickets are available via TicketWorld, while updates and event details may be found on Make It Makati’s official Facebook page.