The moment I stepped onto the grounds of the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City, I knew this wasn’t just a normal fan gathering. The atmosphere on January 17, 2025, was at the top of the roof, buzzing with happy faces and high anticipation of thousands of fellow Carats.
Carat Station Manila, a meticulously organized, free pop-up experience by Spotify, served as the essential launchpad for SEVENTEEN’s highly-awaited “Right Here” concert tour in the Philippines. It was, quite simply, the ultimate fan sanctuary designed to immerse us completely in the vibrant, creative universe of our favorite group SEVENTEEN.
Stepping into the SEVENTEEN Universe
From the moment I walked through the entrance, I was completely immersed. The layout felt intentionally designed to draw you deeper into SEVENTEEN’s world. Spotify has truly mastered the art of the interactive exhibit. Instead of just static displays, every corner offered a chance to participate.
I started, naturally, with the hunt for the perfect pictures. The entire venue was a series of meticulously crafted, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. My friends and I spent a good half-hour going through the different sets—from backdrops echoing past music video concepts to sleek, modern installations showcasing the group’s current era. The displays were visually stunning and an elegant tribute to SEVENTEEN’s hard work, showcasing their growth and creativity with high-definition photos and detailed props.
Personal Treasures and Shared Cheers
The most personal touch was the section featuring the photobooth zones and lockers, each one representing a different member. The queues were long, but the wait was worth it. Finding my bias’s locker, filled with carefully selected items that hinted at his personality and interests, felt like uncovering a little secret. It was a moment that made the vastness of the fandom feel intimate and tailored just for me. Of course, I snagged a few fun snaps in the themed photo booths to instantly capture the memories.
But Carat Station was about more than just personal keepsakes; it was about the communal experience. The sound system was pumping SEVENTEEN hits all day, and everywhere you looked, Carats were dancing and singing along.
The absolute highlight of the day was joining one of the fan chant guide sessions. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers who instantly became friends, we practiced the complex, rapid-fire cheers we’d be shouting at the concert. Hearing that huge, unified chorus echo through the hall sent shivers down my spine—it was a powerful, moving reminder of the bond we all share through this incredible group.
Ready for the Show
Before heading out, I made sure to pick up my exclusive, concert-ready giveaways. They were high-quality, practical items that were the perfect addition to my concert bag, making the entire experience feel even more rewarding.
Leaving the pop-up after hours of being surrounded by music, laughter, and fellow fans, the excitement never stops. Carat Station was a flawlessly executed, free gathering that built a beautiful, unforgettable bridge of energy and anticipation leading right up to the main event. If this was the warm-up, the concert itself was going to be legendary.
