When it comes to celebrating Christmas, no one can beat the Philippines. The yuletide-loving archipelago nation is best known for ushering in the Christmas season as early as September, playing Christmas tunes, and even decorating public spaces and homes with colorful lanterns and holiday decorations. Our penchant for the Christian holidays comes from the historical colonial influences of Spain and the US.
But what makes Filipino Christmas truly stand out? It’s not just the elaborate and beautiful traditions that are uniquely our own but also the vibrant and outstanding Christmas displays that mark the start of such a joyful season. Seeing the twinkling lights and the cheery splash of colors in these holiday installations brings you to a land of fantasy, reflecting Filipinos’ unwavering cheerful disposition and our festive culture.
We look closer at Filipino displays and how their creativity and deep reverence for Christianity create a whimsical holiday feast for our senses. Check out these spectacular public Christmas displays the next time you’re in Metro Manila.
Related Article: The Longest Christmas Ever: Why Filipinos Celebrate Christmas the Way They Do
Ayala Triangle Gardens’ Festival of Lights (Makati City)
A tradition that now marks its 15th year, the Festival of Lights is a much-anticipated spectacle in the heart of Ayala CBD every Christmas season. People from neighboring cities and provinces gather here to take photos and videos of the shimmering lights illuminating the trees within the garden, all while accompanied by upbeat tunes.
The beloved Makati Christmas tradition returns with the theme “Christmas Nights with Countless Lights.” This year, the city tops off its previous light arrangements with interactive and tactile elements, such as floor projections and additional animated details. The show runs every 6 PM to 10 PM until January 14, 2023
Your Home for Christmas, Araneta City (Cubao, Quezon City)
Araneta City, called the “City of Firsts,” sets the stage for its yearly holiday display with a traditional giant Christmas tree lighting ceremony. For over 42 years, a tree adorned with thousands of Christmas lights and hundreds of holiday ornaments amazes people in full view.
In true lavish fashion, the tree lighting ceremony features a variety of celebrities, including beauty queens, TV and film personalities, and politicians, all helping illuminate the dazzling event.
A Holiday Season Filled with Light and Magic – Okada Manila (Parañaque City)
There’s so much to see and discover in the city of entertainment that is Parañaque. One of its prized jewels, Okada Manila, pulled out all the stops to showcase a fabulous Christmas display and event deserving of its title as one of the country’s premier entertainment centers.
The Christmas-themed public exhibition features a 30-foot Christmas tree at The Fountain Foyer, a Christmas Village, and a dazzling light show at the Crystal Corridor. These displays draw locals from nearby towns and cities to witness and feel the Christmas air inside the five-star casino resort and hotel complex.
Meralco Liwanag Park (Pasig City)
The country’s biggest power provider, Meralco, is well-known in Pasig and Mandaluyong as their headquarter’s outdoor space reveals hundreds of Christmas lights and lanterns, including a small Christmas village, a Belen (nativity scene display), and various Christmas elements.
While we wait for its official public opening, passersby can take a peek from the outside and marvel at the beautiful, sparkling lights.
A Few Honorable Mentions
Mehan Garden (Manila City)
In the recent efforts to renovate the capital city, Mehan Garden was among the public spaces that have received a much-needed overhaul. In the area, Christmas lanterns and holiday ornaments attract Manileños looking for a place to get in touch with the Christmas season.
University of Santo Tomas – Paskuhan Christmas Display (Manila City)
The oldest university in Asia is well-known for its sprawling gardens and historic architecture. But as it lights its grounds every December 1, the university campus transforms into a mini-theme park. Every corner is adorned with marvelous Christmas lights and displays, making the catholic university an IG-worthy holiday venue.
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The Philippines shines bright during Christmas, blending historical influences into a unique festive celebration with cultural significance. These public light installations infused with modern flair create a magical experience for locals and visitors, resulting in a tasteful holiday. Enchanting lights and joyful celebrations await you in malls, streets, and public spaces in these trendy spots in Metro Manila; these are the must-visit places if you plan to take a trip.
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Featured Image by Ayala Triangle Gardens via Facebook
