Do you know why the Grinch stole Christmas? Because he didn’t experience these attractions for himself.
Related: A Real Merry Christmas: 7 Ways On How You Can Ease Yourself Into The Holiday Spirit
From the decorations, music, and ever-present traffic, the Christmas season is in full swing. But for one reason or another, it isn’t always easy to get into the holiday mood. If the non-stop Christmas music on the radio just doesn’t cut it though, maybe these attractions will. The yuletide season also comes with the popping up of various holiday-themed attractions in and around the Metro. These places offer a dazzling display of lights, sounds, and decorations that hope to entertain family and friends and maybe even give you that sense of Christmas joy. As you fill up that holiday itinerary, consider checking out these attractions for a visit.
GARDEN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
For years, the Festival Of Lights has been entertaining audiences at the Ayala Triangle Gardens. And this 2023, they’re back for more with the theme “Christmas Night with Countless Nights” as each show serves three distinct sections. The first is a lights display to the tunes of local Christmas classics. The second is a marching band rendition of famous Christmas classics. And for that modern touch, the final segment is a remix of the year’s biggest K-pop songs. And if that wasn’t enough, there are also art installations around the area, including one from Leeroy New. The Festival Of Lights runs until January 14, with shows at 6 and 10 PM.
NUVALI FOUNTAIN OF LIGHTS
If ever you find yourself in the south, particularly in the Santa Rosa area in Laguna, you may want to check out Nuvali’s Fountain Of Lights. Located at the Nuvali Lakeside, this year’s show features an under-the-sea theme as viewers will be treated to an underwater-inspired show that even Ariel would go up from the sea to watch. The show runs until January, with shows every Friday-Sunday from 6-9 PM.
SM MOA’S NIGHT OF LIGHTS
SM Mall Of Asia isn’t just a place to do your Christmas shopping, it also houses a cool rooftop space that doubles as a Christmas village. Located at the South Mall’s roof deck, Night Of Lights boasts a whopping three million lights among its different installations, such as the tunnel of lights, holiday lights, and more. It’s enough to light up Manila Bay in a glow of holiday vibes. The attraction is open every day until January 7 from 5:30 PM until the mall’s closing.
LIWANAG PARK
After three years, Liwanag Park is finally back, and fittingly enough, it’s located at Meralco’s main office in Pasig. Inside, you’ll find lit-up displays, light showcases, a giant belen, and even a train ride around the park. You can check this out at Meralco’s office until January 6.
CHRISTMAS BY THE LAKE
There’s just something so scenic about going to the lake on Christmas. And that’s the vibe at Christmas By The Lake at Lakeshore Area in Barangay Lower Bicutan in Taguig. The six-hectare attraction treats visitors to a dazzling display of lights, sights, and much more. And yes, pets are allowed. The space will be open until January 14.
LIGHTSCAPADES
Eastwood City is shining bright this Christmas, and it’s not just because of its giant Christmas tree. Since December 10, Eastwood has been treating shoppers and visitors to a light, fountain, and music show featuring a jaw-dropping 2.5 million bulbs called Lightscapades.
VERMOSA AYALA MALLS’ HOLIDAY AT PLAY
There’s a new shopping destination in Cavite, and it’s called Vermosa Ayala Malls. This holiday season, the mall is going merry with its Holiday At Play display. Separated into seven distinct sections, Technicolor Beats, Shapes of Harmony, Pipes of Positivity, Drums of Vibrance, Skates of Play, Bells of Playfulness, and the crowd favorite Firefly Garden, Holiday At Play is a life-sized Christmas playhouse fit for both kids and adults. Check it out for yourself until January 14. Entrance is free from 11-3 PM, but a 200 peso entrance fee will be charged 4 onwards as there will be a Lights and Sounds show every 30 minutes from 6-10 PM.
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT BAGUIO
Many travel up north to Baguio at this time of the year for the cold weather and cool breeze. So, why not complete the fantasy by experiencing Christmas in the summer capital of the Philippines? The Baguio Country Club is back once more with their Christmas Village, and this year, they’re going to the carnival with the theme “World of Fun”. Picture this itinerary-worthy destination like the carnival during Christmas, complete with “snow” made out of bubbles.
FIREWORKS AT BGC
You might think fireworks are just reserved for New Year’s. But even during the holidays, some places go all out and light up the night sky in a colorful display of lights and sounds. Such is the case with BGC as they have been holding weekly fireworks shows every Friday since December. Entitled Sparks in the Sky, the show is set to run for the remaining Fridays of the year at 7:30 PM at 5th Avenue, so make sure to check it out before 2024 rolls in.
Continue Reading: 10 Things You And Your Barkada Can Do This Holiday Break
