7 reasons to visit TOPS ArtFest 2026

In just a few hours, TOPS ArtFest 2026 will kick off at this mountaintop destination, bringing together artists and creative communities for four days of exhibitions, installations, performances and other activities. Running from 22 to 25 October, the festival enters its third edition with the theme “Building and Breaking Norms.”

High above Cebu City, the mountains of Busay, where the festival will be held, offer a sweeping view of the city, with its buildings, coastline and surrounding landscape stretching toward the horizon. At TOPS, visitors can take in the scenery from a panoramic observation deck while exploring a complex filled with dining and lifestyle establishments.

With more than 300 artists expected to participate and a program that extends beyond conventional gallery exhibitions, there is plenty to explore. Here are seven reasons to visit.

1. See works by leading Filipino artists

The festival brings together established and emerging artists, with installation art pioneer Junyee and National Artist Nunelucio “Nune” Alvarado serving as its principal artists.

Other featured artists include Ronald Ventura, Romulo Galicano, Demi Padua, Charlie Co, Randalf Dila and Dino Gabito.

Their participation gives visitors an opportunity to encounter different approaches to contemporary Philippine art in one venue. The lineup also brings together artists with varied practices and perspectives, reflecting the festival’s interest in the relationship between artistic traditions and new forms of expression.

2. Discover art beyond paintings and sculptures

Art does not have to stay within the confines of a gallery, and TOPS ArtFest intends to demonstrate that through its exhibitions, installations and performances.

The four-day program includes activities that explore different artistic mediums and ways of presenting creative work. Visitors can expect indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces, live art activities and opportunities to engage with artists and their work.

The festival’s subtitle, “Art Beyond the Canvas,” reflects its emphasis on artistic practices that extend beyond conventional paintings and gallery displays.

3. Watch artists paint Cebu’s landscape in real time

One of the festival’s major highlights is Perspective Play, a plein-air painting competition scheduled for 23 October.

Plein-air painting involves creating artwork outdoors while observing the surrounding environment. At TOPS, participating artists will interpret the mountain landscape and panoramic views through their individual styles and techniques.

The competition has separate student and professional categories, with cash prizes for the winners.

The professional category offers ₱50,000 for first place, ₱40,000 for second place and ₱30,000 for third place. Student winners will receive ₱20,000, ₱15,000 and ₱10,000, respectively.

The winning entries are scheduled to be exhibited during the festival’s awards night on 25 October.

4. Experience live art and performances

Visitors can also explore the festival’s live art activities, which include on-site murals, graffiti sessions and performance art.

These activities offer a chance to see creative work take shape during the event. Rather than encountering only completed pieces, visitors can observe different artistic approaches and the processes behind them.

The festival’s broader program also includes installations and other creative engagements that encourage audiences to encounter art in different spaces.

Specific performers and the complete timetable for these activities have not been confirmed in the published information available ahead of opening day.

5. Join conversations about art and creativity

TOPS ArtFest also features talks and interactive workshops intended to bring artists and audiences together.

The festival’s theme, “Building and Breaking Norms,” raises questions about artistic traditions, creative conventions and the possibilities that emerge when established approaches are challenged.

For visitors interested in learning more about contemporary art, these activities offer another way to engage with the festival beyond viewing exhibitions.

The organizers have announced talks and workshops, although a complete schedule of individual sessions and registration requirements was not available in the published information reviewed for this guide.

6. Explore a gathering of artists and creative communities

With more than 300 artists, galleries and creative collectives expected to participate, the festival brings together a broad range of creative practices and communities.

The event also involves cultural and educational collaborators, including the University of San Carlos School of Architecture, Fine Arts, and Design, alongside other creative groups.

This mix gives the festival a wider scope than a single exhibition. Visitors can encounter different artistic perspectives while exploring the work of established practitioners and emerging creatives.

The event listing also describes local food pop-ups and artisanal merchandise booths as part of the festival experience.

7. Enjoy art against Cebu’s panoramic mountain views

The location is a major part of the festival’s appeal.

Situated in Busay, TOPS offers a 360-degree view of Cebu City. Its Circle complex combines viewing areas with restaurants and lifestyle establishments, giving visitors options for food and refreshments between festival activities.

The setting also provides the backdrop for Perspective Play, where participating artists will interpret the surrounding landscape on canvas.

For visitors planning a day out, the combination of art, mountain scenery and dining options offers several ways to experience the destination.

When and where to go

TOPS ArtFest 2026: Building and Breaking Norms

Dates: 22–25 October 2026
Venue: TOPS, The Circle, Busay, Cebu City
Opening ceremony: 22 October, at 6 p.m., at the third-floor exhibition area, TOPS Events Space, The Circle
Featured artists: Junyee, Nune Alvarado, Ronald Ventura, Romulo Galicano, Demi Padua, Charlie Co, Randalf Dila and Dino Gabito, among others
Admission: The festival is advertised as free and open to the public. Check whether TOPS’ regular entrance fee applies.

For transportation, visitors can take the TOPS shuttle from the IT Park Transport Terminal on Geonzon Street in Lahug. The venue’s published rate for round-trip shuttle transportation, including entrance, is ₱200. Confirm the current rate and departure arrangements before traveling.

The festival is presented by the Cristina Lee Dino Foundation Inc. and the Sacred Heart School for Boys Batch ’85 Foundation.

For ticket registration and further event information, visit the TOPS ArtFest 2026 event page.