Places across Metro Manila and beyond rang in the holiday season with a plethora of fun Christmas celebrations—from tree lighting ceremonies to captivating fountain shows, here are a few sights to enjoy with your loved ones.
In the Philippines, the holiday season is celebrated as early as September: a testament to how much the nation loves Christmas. After all, there’s nothing more Filipino than a warm, joyous celebration spent in the company of loved ones—and of course, surrounded by things that capture the imagination, spark hope, and encourage the spirit of giving. This 2024, a variety of cities, malls, and hospitality groups around the country—from Metro Manila to Coron—held fun events and ceremonies that marked the beginning of their holiday celebrations.
Here’s how these places kicked off the holidays, and what delightful surprises you can consider checking out with your friends and family for the festive season.
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Newport World Resorts: Discovering The Magic Of The Holidays
It is beginning to look a lot like The World of Christmas everywhere at Newport World Resorts. With its halls decked in majestic hues of blues and golden reindeer statues up in the air, the country’s pioneer integrated resort brings a holiday wonderland to life as the entire property transformed into a Christmas Reindeer Village. At the center stands a giant Christmas tree, adorned in royal blue and gold baubles, twinkling lights, and splendor, inviting all to revel in the magic and wonder of the holidays.
Newport World Resorts’ tree lighting ceremony officially marked the start of The World of Christmas celebrations at the premiere lifestyle and entertainment destination, bringing forth every festive joy imaginable, from concerts and parties to gourmet offerings and staycations across its various hotels.
For instance, there’s going to be the Grand Countdown to 2025 on New Year’s Eve headlined by some of OPM’s brightest stars, including BINI, Bamboo, Jed Madela, and Angeline Quinto. Newport World Resorts’ award-winning culinary team has also curated a selection of the best Christmas dishes and treats for everyone to enjoy in the comfort of their home, or to share as gifts. The Holiday Takeaways menu features savory and sweet yuletide classics like succulent turkey roulade, charcuterie platter, and gourmet beef selection.
Guests will enjoy the holiday magic with Newport World Resorts’ gingerbread house located beside the Garden Wing Cafe. In this wonderful spot, the young ones and young-at-heart can take countless pictures and purchase signature treats and pastries.
Meanwhile, guests who step into Newport Mall will encounter the enchanting Christmas Reindeer Village. The one-stop holiday destination is decked in bright decors, dancing lights, and immersive attractions. Take in the wonderful three-dimensional video mapping on display at The Plaza starting on December 1, 2024 every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. Guests can also make the most of Christmas shopping sprees and hangouts with mall-wide sales and holiday pop-up stores galore.
For more information on The World of Christmas 2024 at Newport World Resorts visit www.newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Christmas In Makati: Making A Radiant Holiday Experience Happen
Experience radiance at its brightest during the most awaited holiday celebration in Makati featuring a city-wide visual spectacle, enchanting performances, festive street markets, and the grandest New Year’s Eve countdown party. Make It Makati and Ayala Land make Christmas happen once again, and this time with bigger and brighter experiences like never before. A Radiant Holiday Experience in Makati launched with a city-wide lighting ceremony. From the Makati Central Business District (MCBD) to Circuit Makati, the city now glows with a warm and inviting atmosphere, welcoming everyone to come together and remember the essence of the season.
The festive ceremonial affair was led by the representatives of Ayala Land, including Jaime Zobel de Ayala; Sofia Zobel Elizalde; Bianca Zobel de Ayala; Ayala Land president and chief executive officer Meean Dy; Ayala Land senior vice president and head of Leasing and Hospitality Mariana Zobel de Ayala; and Ayala Land Estates head Chris Maglanoc. They were joined by the local government partner, led by Mayor Abby Binay; Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo; First District of Makati Congressman Kid Pena; and Second District of Makati Congressman Luis Campos.
The event continued with vibrant musical performances from UST Singers, STEPS Dance Project, Arman Ferrer, Shiela Valderama, Kayla Rivera, Rony Fortich, and the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, as they graced Tower One and Exchange Plaza’s fountain area, setting the tone for what Makatizens can enjoy in the days to come. This season, Makati will be shining a spotlight on local talent with daily performances at Ayala Triangle Gardens.
Every weekend, the Gardens will transform into a grand stage featuring choirs, orchestras, singers, dancers, and theater performers. Caricature artist Random Smiles will also be present, creating festive portraits for all to enjoy. Amidst the melodic beauty of the season, Ayala Triangle Gardens is hosting Simbang Gabi services starting December 15 until December 23, 2024, inviting families to express their gratitude and faith in keeping with tradition.
Meanwhile, Paseo De Roxas will also be the spot of multiple holiday markets and special events, including Sleigh the Streets (a two-day biking weekend for cycling enthusiasts from December 7 to 8); Marche de Noel returns (a partnership with the French Embassy featuring traditional French treats and gifts, from December 14 to 15 and 21 to 22); and of course, the Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown, an epic celebration featuring some of 2024’s most influential artists.
Nuvali Fountain Of Lights: Christmas Comes To Life Through Water And Wonder
Nuvali Estate’s Fountain of Lights Festival has already become a touchstone holiday event in the last two years, and this 2024, the original water show returns with a larger than life, spectacular showcase that promises to fill the hearts of visitors with festive spirit, awesome adventure, and family-friendly fun.
An enchanting display of lights, music, and storytelling, the Fountain of Lights Festival is a must-see nightly show for families. It can be experienced from 6:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. every Friday to Sunday until January 5, 2025. The show will feature two main thematic performances that will captivate audiences of all ages: Dragons of Prosperity and Journey to Toy Island. These awe-inspiring narratives are designed to spark the imagination and bring a sense of wonder to children and adults alike.
Dragons of Prosperity tells a magical tale of life and rebirth, where mystical dragons representing the elements of earth, water, wind, and fire come to life in a symphony of lights and movement. The life-like creatures pop from the fountain’s mist with an ethereal dance that symbolizes the cycle of renewal and hope that mirrors the spirit of the holiday season—making it not only a visually striking experience but also one filled with meaning and value. The second show, Journey to Toy Island, takes audiences on a whimsical adventure aboard a paper boat that embarks on a journey to a distant island of magical toys.
Nuvali’s Fountain of Lights light, sound and water show extends to a multi-sensory holiday spectacle with on-ground installations of the show highlights, featuring dragons and life-size toys that kids and adults alike can play with, creating a magical setting for families to explore and make unforgettable memories together.
As part of its holiday celebrations, Nuvali also invites families to join in spreading the joy of Christmas through their Toy Donation Drive. In the spirit of giving, Nuvali Estate, Ayala Malls Solenad, Seda Nuvali, and The Driving Range are collaborating to bring the Gift of Kindness to life—a special toy drive dedicated to spreading smiles to children in Sitio Iraq Barangay Macabling, Santa Rosa, Laguna. Visitors can donate new or used toys that are still in good condition, at designated donation stations throughout the area.
Lanson Place: Ushering In An Enchanting Holiday Season
Illuminating the spirit of the holidays, Lanson Place Mall of Asia’s enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting event, Season of Lights, heralded the start of a thrilling festive season of special events and experiences at the hotel.
At the heartwarming celebration and cherished holiday tradition, attendees were treated to an exceptional array of festive performances, showcasing the holiday spirit through the soulful voices of award-winning performers including Arman Ferrer, Shiela Valderrama, the award-winning Imusicapella, and Bernie Pasamba and the Music Masters, who serenaded the audiences with beloved songs like I See the Light and Pure Imagination, as well as classic holiday melodies that lifted spirits. Afterwards, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception with a delicious festive spread that highlighted the importance of togetherness.
This holiday season, Lanson Place Mall of Asia has transformed into a cosy sanctuary, where guests can step away from the festive hustle and bustle to unwind. Various room promotions abound, paired with sumptuous feasts with Cyan Modern Kitchen; jolly afternoon tea with Madeleine High Tea; and even festive hamper-making activities until January 1, 2024, which lets guests create their own holiday hampers brimming with exquisite Christmas snacks, delectable sweets, and baked goods.
For more information about Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s dining venues and offers, visit the
official website at www.lansonplace.com/mallofasia/ or contact the team at +63 2 7777 0000. Follow its official Facebook and Instagram to find out more.
Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery: Launching The Magic Tales Festive Offers
Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery kicked off the festive season with its inaugural tree lighting ceremony, marking the beginning of The Admiral’s Magic Tales. This significant event celebrated the hotel’s achievements over the past year, including its prestigious inclusion in the Michelin Guide recommendations for hotels and various international awards.
The hotel is now one of only six in the country recognized in the Michelin Guide, bringing it closer to achieving a Michelin Key, an accolade awarded to exceptional hotels that meet high standards of service, operational excellence, design, and local engagement. Additionally, the Admiral Hotel was recently named Asia’s Leading Design Hotel of 2024 by the World Travel Awards and is now nominated in the global category, competing with renowned establishments such as the Armani Hotel in Dubai; Bulgari Resorts in both Indonesia and Dubai; and Raffles Hotel in Qatar.
The evening was enriched by the presence of Department of Tourism – Metro Manila Officers Ana Liza Lucas and Kim Darryl Menor, as well as the president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Kaye Tinga. Guests were entertained by the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila’s Presidential Committee on Arts, Culture, and Sports Chorale Group, along with a stunning quartet performance from the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, the country’s leading orchestra and one of the top musical ensembles in the Asia-Pacific. The event was made even more special with the announcement of the hotel’s meaningful collaboration with Childhope Philippines Foundation, Inc. and the Philippine Institute for the Deaf.
This season, the hotel also has a roster of Magical Tales festive offers lined up, including special staycation offers, buffets, dining promos, and hampers to name a few.
Learn more by visiting Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery’s official website at www.admiralhotelmanila.com/offers/magic-tales-2024/.
Okada Manila: Putting Up A Dazzling Grand Christmas Tree Celebration
Okada Manila officially welcomed the most magical holiday season with the grand lighting of its iconic Christmas Tree, marking the official start of the holiday season. The Forbes five-star integrated resort has transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland for the holidays. At the heart of the celebration is a towering, 34-foot Christmas tree adorned in elegant blue and white ornaments, evoking this year’s “Enchanting Crystal Winter” theme.
The tree lighting ceremony was led by key Okada Manila executives, setting the festive spirit in motion. To add to the fanfare, the celebration included spectacular performances that drew in an unbelievably large crow. Stell of SB19 captivated audiences with his golden voice and enthralling dance moves, while Acapellago and Manila String Machine gave their own whimsical take on well-loved holiday carols.
The Okada Manila Entertainment Group also delighted guests with a spectacular performance of their new show Enchant, filled with jazzy dance moves and Christmas tunes that made for a groovy holiday celebration. Adding to the magical holiday spectacle, the ceremony introduced a new show at The Fountain, Okada Manila’s iconic dancing water display, with the new addition “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen.
Following the tree lighting, Okada Manila unveiled its “Enchanting Christmas Village.” The Crystal Pavilion was turned into a stretch of a dreamy showcase of holiday-inspired immersive booths accentuated with vibrant decors and colorful lights. The Christmas Village will also have dazzling nightly light shows. The Enchanting Christmas Village is open to the public until January 5, 2024.
For families and holiday enthusiasts, Santa Claus awaits at Okada Manila. Meet and Greet sessions with Santa will take place on select dates, giving kids a chance to share their holiday wishes in person.
Okada Manila’s holiday season promises unforgettable experiences with an array of special offers designed to bring the magic of the season to life. The Enchanting Winter Escape Package transforms family getaways into cozy holiday adventures with premium accommodations, exclusive Executive Lounge access, and complimentary experiences for each family member. Guests can also indulge in culinary delights across Okada Manila’s dining venues. From appetizing bites at The Lobby Lounge and Pastry Shop to traditional Italian holiday flavors at La Piazza, the resort’s Merry Feasts, Enchanting Flavors menu offers are designed to satisfy every palate.
For more details on Okada Manila’s holiday experiences, visit www.okdmnl.ph/EnchantingCrystalWinter.
Makati Shangri-La: Adding A Touch of Sparkle To The Holidays
Makati Shangri-La kicked off the holidays with a radiant Christmas tree lighting ceremony filled with sparkle and music. The event followed its theme of “Enchanted Wonders,” with whimsical decor that evoked the joy and fun of Christmas. “Welcome to our annual Christmas tree lighting […] it truly is wonderful to have you all with us tonight,” expressed Jonathan Reynolds, general manager of Makati Shangri-La, during his warm welcoming speech. Afterwards, Reynolds toasted to the holiday season and members of U.P. Singing Ambassadors performed a soaring round-up of holiday classics that filled the hotel with beautiful music.
Mitsukoshi BGC: Bringing The Spirit of Japanese Heritage For The Holidays
Mitsukoshi BGC is introducing a series of festive events this Christmas season that celebrate the joy of giving, sharing, and togetherness. Embracing the Japanese concept of “Okurimono,” meaning “Gift,” the shopping center aims to offer an immersive experience that connects Filipino families to the warmth of Japanese culture while bringing a fresh and unique holiday celebration for all. With its three central gifting themes—The Gift of Celebration, The Gift of Sharing, and The Gift of Entertainment there’s something special for everyone to enjoy.
The mall’s holiday magic begins with the unveiling of Mitsuko, the chic and playful kokeshi doll. Mitsuko welcomes guests to a world of Japanese charm and hospitality; as a vibrant character who loves shopping, karaoke, and delicious food, Mitsuko embodies the playful spirit of Christmas and Japanese culture. This year, the special Kokeshi Doll Mitsuko installation, with a magical snow effect, will bring the Christmas spirit of Japan to Metro Manila.
In addition to the holiday festivities, the mall proudly displays its recognizable Lion Statue, a symbol of prosperity and good fortune that has graced the entrance of Mitsukoshi’s Nihombashi store since 1914. For the first time ever, this beloved statue has crossed the sea to the Philippines, offering visitors a chance to experience the spirit of omotenashi—the Japanese art of hospitality.
The holiday season is also a time to gather around the table, and Mitsukoshi BGC has curated a selection of festive dining options with extended dining hours for customers to enjoy: 11:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. from Monday to Thursday; 11:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays; and 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. on holidays. Then from December 1 to 31, 2024, a Dine-In Raffle Promotion offers patrons the chance to win exciting prizes, including a MacBook Pro, restaurant gift certificates, Christmas cakes, and Metrobank merchandise. Simply spend a minimum of Php 3,000 (for Metrobank cardholders) or Php 4,000 using any other payment method at participating restaurants, such as Ralph Wine, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Prologue, and more, to qualify for a chance to win.
Moreover, Mitsukoshi’s Holiday Gift Wrapping service is perfect for making your presents extra special. For purchases starting at Php 1,000, customers can enjoy free gift wrapping with exclusive Mitsukoshi wrapping paper and bags from Isetan Mitsukoshi Japan. This thoughtful service, conducted by expertly trained staff, is available throughout the holiday season from December 1 to 25, 2024.
In addition, the Live Music Performances and Santa Meet & Greet from December 23 to 25, 2024 will bring festive cheer to visitors with classic Japanese Christmas songs, live performances, and the chance to meet Santa Claus himself.
For more information on Mitsukoshi’s holiday events and promotions, visit @mitsukoshi_bgc on Instagram and @MITSUKOSHIBGC on Facebook.
Discovery Resorts: Celebrating A Whimsical Holiday Season Of Light
The Discovery Resorts marked the start of its festive season with captivating Christmas tree lighting ceremonies across its properties. Each event showcased the joy and togetherness that define the holidays through unique themes and heartfelt celebrations.
Under the theme Whimsical Holidays, Discovery Boracay and Discovery Coron brought to life a Polynesian-inspired celebration filled with vibrant performances and heartfelt community-driven initiatives. Infused with the spirit of the sea, the warmth of the islands, and the magic of the holidays, the Tree Lighting ceremony began with a captivating tale. The storytelling wove a narrative of how all things return to nature, celebrating the timeless cycle of life. This enchanting theme was reflected in the Christmas tree itself, adorned with delicate blooms and vibrant flowers that symbolized growth, renewal, and the beauty of nature’s resilience. It stood as a radiant centerpiece, blooming with the magic, wonder, and joy of the season.
As the tree was lit in Discovery Boracay, the air was filled with heartwarming performances from the employees and the Boracay Ati Choir. Established in 2005, the Boracay Ati Choir was born from a shared passion for music and faith. Encouraged to join the choir of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Balabag, young members of the Ati community—ranging from primary students to high schoolers—have carried on this heartfelt tradition ever since. The choir has become a symbol of cultural pride and youthful artistry showcasing their vibrant spirit. Adding a personal touch to their performances, they even sang original songs composed by a talented member of their community, sharing stories and melodies unique to their heritage.
The celebration continued at Discovery Balay, the staff house grounds of Discovery Boracay, adorned with festive lights and vibrant Christmas elements for the Boracay community to enjoy. Special guests during the activity included Malay Mayor Floribar Bautista, Rev. Fr. Francis Bolivar, and Re. Fr. Jogie Esmeralda.
Meanwhile, guests at Discovery Coron experienced a magical evening of festive tunes, Polynesian-inspired dances, and a sumptuous buffet dinner at Firefish Restaurant. Celebrity guest Sam Pinto and her daughter Mia joined the celebration, adding a special touch to the tree-lighting festivities. Live music by the Center Stage Band carried the evening into an atmosphere of joyful cheer.
The spirit of a carnival comes alive as Discovery Samal brought people together to share laughter, celebrate life, and bask in the joy of the holidays. With a sense of wonder and playfulness, Whimsical Dreamland is Discovery Samal’s way of embracing the festive season. The lighting of the tree was accompanied by an array of delectable holiday treats and enchanting Christmas-inspired culinary delights, the evening unfolded like a dream.
The ceremonies celebrated not just the joy of the season but also the values of kindness and giving back. Each property featured unique entertainment, local partnerships, and opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas.
Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron, and Discovery Samal are offering a variety of holiday packages to make this season even more special for you and your family. For more information, visit each property’s websites: www.discoveryboracay.com for Discovery Boracay, www.discoverycoron.com for Discovery Coron, and www.discoverysamal.com for Discovery Samal.
Photos courtesy of Newport World Resorts, AyalaLand, Okada Manila, Admiral Hotel – MGallery, Discovery Resorts, Makati Shangri-La, Mitsukoshi BGC, and Lanson Place Mall of Asia.
