THE Araneta City in Cubao, Quezon City shone brightly as the 100-foot Christmas tree was officially lit on Friday evening, signaling the kickoff of the most festive season each year.
The lighting tradition had started in 1981, and had been done every year since then.
It was led by Kapamilya star Vice Ganda, alongside Araneta Group officials, Binibining Pilipinas Queens and Miss International 2023 runner up Nicole Borromeo.
Thousands flocked to the Araneta Center to witness the event with a theme “Your Home This Christmas .
“Our theme is mainly because we had a fiesta carnival coming back so very familiar and lahat and very nostalgic feels here in Araneta City,” Marjorie Go, AVP for Marketing at Araneta City said.
The tree glistens in gold, silver, and a touch of red for the yuletide season. It is adorned with 7,500 warm white bulbs, 20 000 christmas balls, 3000 pine garlands, and 250 pieces of red and gold stars.
“The grandest giant Christmas tree event is definitely a great way to kick off the Christmas season for sure. Of course to see everyone here in Araneta city it just really warms my heart,” Katrina Castaneda Johnson, Bb. Pilipinas First Runner-Up said.
The Christmas tree also has a golden carousel underneath to signify the return of the classic fiesta carnival to its original home.
Photos by: Ryan Baldemor
Performances were held not only by Vice Ganda, but also Taylor Sheesh , and PPop boy group VXON.
“Para makagaan ng pakiramdam nila, makakuha sila ng inspirasyon mula doon. Yung pagkakasundo-sundo napakalaking bagay lalo na sa panahong ito na napakaraming di pagkakaunawaan. Ang gulo gulo ng mundo so sa munting paraan lamaang ng pagpapakita ng pagkakasundosundo, makadagdag kami sa magagandang nangyayari sa Pilipinas,” Vice Ganda said.
“Christmas wish, peace for everyone. It sounds cliche pero at this point sa buhay natin. Yun ang kailangan natin peace and healing for everyone,” the unkabogable star added.
For all in attendance, not only was the Christmas tree lit, but the Christmas spirit in each and everyone of them as well.
Photos by: Ryan Baldemor
