Cover During the ceremonial lighting of Ayala Avenue last 2023, a staple and much-awaited annual event every Christmas season in Makati (Photo: Facebook / Ayala Land, Inc and Make It Makati)
During the ceremonial lighting of Ayala Avenue last 2023, a staple and much-awaited annual event every Christmas season in Makati (Photo: Facebook / Ayala Land, Inc and Make It Makati)
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A radiant holiday experience awaits everyone as the Christmas season in Makati goes on full throttle this November
Make It Makati and Ayala Land unveil their lineup for the upcoming Christmas season in Makati, which commences on November 6 with the ceremonial lighting of Ayala Avenue. Signalling the start of the season, the city once again transforms into a picturesque scene, living up to this year’s theme: “A Radiant Holiday Experience”.
From enchanting lights and lively performances to cultural encounters and well-loved traditions, the Christmas season casts its radiant colours in Makati with a lineup of activities best enjoyed with friends and families.
Read more: Jose Mari Chan on Filipinos putting up Christmas home decorations in September
Festival of Lights 2024
The Makati Central Business District (MCBD) all the way to Circuit Makati will have a spectacular display of Christmas lighting that will give a warm, welcoming atmosphere to local citizens and visitors alike.
This year’s Christmas decorations feature a new design approach to traditional Filipino symbols, including trees adorned with Kapampangan parol-inspired patterns alongside beloved classics such as stars and capiz-adorned lights. Expect the 1.9 kilometre-stretch to honour the beauty and intricacy of Filipino heritage.
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Meanwhile, the Festival of Lights at the Ayala Triangle Gardens will take a multi-sensorial approach. It will include a corridor filled with mirror frames emitting neon glow and starbursts, as well as elements that stimulate sight, scent, and sound.
Even Jaime Velasquez Park in Salcedo and Legaspi Park are sights not to miss. Holiday decor will be added to these areas, weaving a magical tapestry throughout MCBD. Trees with dazzling lights and glimmering installations from South Avenue to Circuit Makati are sure to captivate passersby and visitors with their festive wonderland design.
Festive melodies at Ayala Triangle Gardens
The Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra
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Watch out for the mesmerising performances at Ayala Triangle Gardens throughout the weekdays, which bring the holiday spirit to life. In weeks to follow, catch TetViolin, Rose Ko, and The Accordionist, and the caricature artist Random Smiles is ready to draw visitors Christmas-themed portraits.
Meanwhile, on weekends, the Gardens transform into a grand stage headlined by Bituin Escalante with the Habemus Pappas, the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, the internationally acclaimed UST Singers, The Luminaries (Arman Ferrer, Floyd Tena, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, Kayla Rivera and Yanah Laurel), Ballet Manila and Steps Dance Project, and other top artists like balladeer Gian Magdangal, classical singer Lara Maigue, and the multi-awarded group Acapellago.
By keeping with tradition, you can experience the Christmas season in Makati more meaningfully. Everyone is invited to the Simbang Gabi Masses at the Ayala Triangle Gardens from December 15 to 23.
Festive markets and activities at Paseo de Roxas
Above The French Christmas Market in December 2022 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens (Photo: Facebook / Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia)
Above The French Christmas Market in December 2022 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens (Photo: Facebook / Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia)
The French Christmas Market in December 2022 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens (Photo: Facebook / Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia)
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Embrace the spirit of unity at Paseo de Roxas, where a vibrant array of festive markets and activities await. The celebration kicks off with “A Spectrum Holiday” on November 9 to 10, featuring an eclectic mix of merchants offering food, fashion, cosmetics, pet essentials, and more, catering to every taste and preference.
Additionally, the Christmas season in Makati offers a multicultural experience in collaboration with embassies, showcasing unique traditions and flavours from around the globe. In partnership with the French Embassy, the French Beaujolais event on November 16 to 17 invites guests to savour the finest wines produced in the Beaujolais district of southeastern France, complemented by culinary offerings that celebrate French gastronomy. From December 7 to 8, Makati launches “Sleigh the Streets”, an event organised in partnership with the Cycling Community. Known for its bike-friendly roads, Makati invites cycling enthusiasts to enjoy a refreshing course around the city, promoting outdoor fun and camaraderie.
Of course, the festivities would not be complete without the French Christmas Market on December 14 to 15 and 21 to 22. Following last year’s success, Makati is again partnering with the French Embassy to offer a taste of traditional French delicacies, gifts, and experiences.
Read more: Filipino cyclist Buji Babiera on the biking boom and the need for more infrastructure
New Year’s Eve countdown party
Cap off the Christmas season in Makati with an epic night at the Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown, the grandest and biggest NYE featuring the best of the best artists. Welcome the silver jubilee of the millennium with a bang—commemorating 25 years of exceptional milestones and transformative moments. Celebrate a new chapter whilst revelling in the iconic sounds of artists and changemakers who have shaped the artistic and entertainment landscape over the years.
The stage will span the width of Ayala Avenue, standing several storeys high, counting down to the new year in style. The night kicks off as the DJ sets the vibe with our favourite dance hits, followed by performances from artists who headlined the most attended and talked-about concerts we had this year. The main event is the grand countdown as Makati welcomes 2025 with a massive fireworks display and continues with an afterparty, filling the celebratory air with joy, laughter, and a lot of dancing!
For complete details and updates, follow @MakeItMakati on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, X and Threads
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
