The start of 2026 is the perfect excuse to try something new, not just as a resolution, but as a way to reset routines, meet new people, and build skills you can actually enjoy. In the Philippines, hobby culture is thriving with creative workshops and wellness classes, to outdoor adventures and social experiences.

 

I recently enrolled in the Fundamentals in Culinary Arts short course at the Center for Culinary Arts (CCA). For me, this experience is about practicing my cooking hobby; it’s about taking my skills to the next level, potentially opening new doors if I decide to start a small business in the future.

 

 

Below is a directory-style list of 26 hobbies and short courses where Filipinos can enroll, explore, and experiment, whether for self-expression, fitness, creativity, or connection.

🎭 Performance, Comedy & Creative Expression

 

1.PETA Theater Center – Acting, musical theater, and creative drama workshops for beginners and enthusiasts.

Visit: Philippine Educational Theater Association

 

2.Repertory Philippines – Acting and stage performance workshops led by theater professionals.

Visit: Repertory Philippines

 

3.John Robert Powers Acting Studio Philippines – On-camera acting, audition techniques, and film workshops.

Visit: John Robert Powers Acting Studio Philippines

 

4.Star Magic Workshops – Acting, hosting, singing, and personality development (seasonal programs).

Instagram: Star Magic Workshops

 

5.Comedy Manila – Stand-up comedy and improv workshops, plus open mic training.

Visit: Comedy Manila

 

 

🎬 Content Creation, Photography & Media Skills

 

6.CIIT College of Arts and Technology (Short Courses) – Video editing, animation, illustration, and content creation.

Facebook: CIIT Philippines

 

7.Content Creator Workshops (Independent Studios) – Reels, TikTok storytelling, and personal branding sessions.

Facebook: Digital Content Creation Workshop Manila

 

8.Philippine Center for Creative Imaging – Photography workshops for DSLR, mirrorless, and smartphone users.

Visit: Philippine Center for Creative Imaging

 

9.PhotoWalk Manila & Community Photo Walks – Guided photography walks and themed challenges.

Facebook: Photo Walk Manila

 

🎨 Art, Crafts & Hands-On Creativity

 

10.Wabi Sabi Studio PH – Beginner pottery wheel throwing and hand-building workshops.

Facebook: Wabi Sabi Studio PH

 

11.Laro Ceramics (Quezon City) – Mug-making and ceramics classes for beginners.

Facebook: Laro Ceramics PH

 

12.Sip & Gogh – Guided paint-and-sip sessions designed for first-time painters.

Facebook: Sip & Gogh

 

🧘 Wellness, Movement & Mindfulness

 

13.Yoga Studios (Various) – Yoga basics, breathwork, and meditation workshops.

 Visit: ClassPass Yoga

 

14.Dance Studios (G-Force, Addlib, A-Team) – Hip-hop, jazz, K-pop, and contemporary dance classes.

Visit: G-Force Dance Center, Addlib Dance Studio

 

15.Pilates & Barre Studios – Beginner strength, posture, and flexibility classes.

Visit: ClassPass Pilates

 

 

🌊 Outdoor, Sports & Adventure

 

16.Bouldering Gyms (e.g., Boulder World PH) – Indoor rock climbing and bouldering sessions for all skill levels.

Visit: The Bouldering Hive

 

 

17.Scuba Diving Centers (PADI/SSI) – Discover Scuba and Open Water courses.

Search: PADI Dive Center Batangas

 

18.Surf Schools (Siargao, La Union, Baler) – Beginner surf lessons and board rentals.

Visit: instagram.com/fatlipssurfco

 

19.Skateboarding Classes – Beginner skate lessons and community sessions.

Search: Skate School Manila

 

20.Cycling Groups & Clinics – Road cycling basics, safety training, and group rides.

Facebook: Philippine Cycling Community

 

21.Indoor Cycling / Spin Studios – Rhythm cycling and endurance classes.

Visit: Electric Studio, Saddle Row

 

22.Pickleball Clubs – Introductory pickleball sessions and casual games.

Download: Reclub

 

 

🍳 Practical & Skill-Based Learning

 

23.Center for Culinary Arts (CCA Manila) – Short courses in cooking, baking, and kitchen fundamentals.

Visit: Center for Culinary Arts Manila

 

24.TESDA Short Courses (Nationwide) – Free or low-cost training in culinary, wellness, and technical skills.

Visit: TESDA @ tesda.gov.ph

 

🌍 Language & Social Experiences

 

25.Duolingo Language Learning – Learn a new language (Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, and more) through daily gamified lessons.

Download: Duolingo

 

26.Timeleft / Never Strangers – Curated dinners and meetups designed to help people meet to make new connections.

Download: Timeleft, Never Strangers

 

 

Make 2026 a Year of Curiosity

 

New hobbies don’t need to become lifelong commitments. Sometimes, they’re simply invitations to try, explore, and grow. Whether you’re stepping onto a stage, diving into the ocean, shaping clay, learning a new language, or meeting strangers over dinner, 2026 is a chance to collect experiences, not just goals.