By: Mielyne B. Rayos
For the first time in many years, my family is celebrating Christmas here in Metro Manila. This year, no Batangas celebration where my clan hails. Because this is unusual for our family, I made extra efforts to discover the beauty of spending the season in the city.
Join me as I go through my discoveries.
Greenhills Christmas-On-Display (COD)
You may have been at the Greenhills Shopping Center for yet another shopping rush. Amidst the rush, find time to relax watching the Greenhills Christmas-On-Display, a show about a holiday-themed story. (It’s for you to discover!). The show starts at 6:00 p.m. and ends at 11:00 p.m. The show runs for about 15 minutes, so in case you missed the start of the story (like I did), you may just wait for another round of narration.
Divisoria Midnight Market
Many of us are familiar with Divi, an all-year-round shopping hub. But it’s more than its usual busy-bee during the Christmas season. Ranging from apparels to toys, Christmas decors to watches, shades to food items and ballpens to ‘all that you can think of,’ Divisoria offers a whole lot of things to choose from… all at the most affordable prices. Another good thing is that Divi is open until midnight and some stalls are now open for 24 hours. Being there, shopping with my friends is just simply fun!
The Symphony of Lights and Sounds
While waiting for my college buddies during our Christmas dinner, we stayed at the Ayala Triangle and were delighted by The Symphony of Lights and Sounds show. It’s a 15-minute show of lights dancing along Christmas songs. It has become a must-see for people who are intentionally looking for Christmas shows. There I saw groups of friends, families and young professionals (probably from the Makati area) and also saw how they, too, were delighted. An additional delight is a display of a big nativity scene. The 15-minute show runs every hour starting from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Maximizing the holidays, I am set to see other spots which I heard to be offering a unique Christmas experience. Here are some of the free and/or budget-friendly places to visit in case you also plan to go with your family and friends:
Policarpio Street – This is the famous “Christmas Street” in Mandaluyong where houses are extravagantly adorned with Christmas decors. Go there with your loved ones any time armed with your cameras to capture the amusing experience!
Manila’s “Tallest” Christmas Tree – This Christmas tree stands really tall and proud in Cubao. The lights and decors are a sure source of amusement.
The great big giant Christmas Display – In Bonifacio High Street; this shadow play is fun to watch, especially for the little ones.
City/Municipal Halls and Plazas – I’ve been hearing good comments from people about the decors of their home city/municipal halls and plazas. Great to see government places dressed for Christmas!
Inspite the busy, crowded places in the metro, Christmas in the City is a whole lot fun!
But remember, the places you enjoy the Christmas season really don’t matter. What matters is WHY you’re celebrating and the place is a bonus blessing. Discover then the REAL REASON for Christmas! Happy holidays everyone!
Jesus is Lord Church Worship Service Location and Schedule
JIL MUSIC MUSEUM
Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan
1st Service: 7:00am - 9:00am
2nd service: 10:00am-12:00nn
JIL PACHECO
1530 N. Zamora St., Cor. Pacheco St., Tondo Manila
1st Service: 7:00am - 9:00am
2nd service: 10:00am-12:00nn
JIL MANDALUYONG
668 Sgt.Bumatay St., Plainview Mandaluyong
1st Service: 7:00am - 9:00am
2nd service: 10:00am-12:00nn