As December begins, the University of Santo Tomas has extensively planned a month-long university-wide Christmas celebration that centers on peace and camaraderie, which is befitting of this year's theme of "Witnessing the Joy of Christmas."

On 1 December, students gathered around the campus as the esteemed university glowed in its most vibrant form, resembling key elements from the popular game series Super Mario.

The highly anticipated Christmas tree has also lit up, standing tall and mighty as it shined at the UST Grandstand. It serves as a perfect backdrop for students and their families, friends and loved ones who want to feel the magic of Christmas as early as now.

With the intricate and well-thought-out decorations lighting up the campus every night for the month of December, students, faculty and staff would be reminded of the joy and shared happiness that Christmas brings despite the academic loads and personal responsibilities each carries.

However, there is so much more in store to look forward to amid the ongoing conflicts one faces.

Night of music and magic

A celebration is not complete without music.

Together with the University of Santo Tomas Alumni Association, Inc.  and the UST Conservatory of Music Alumni Association, Inc., they present the USTAAI Family Christmas Jazz Festival — a delightful celebration of music and joy.

The jazz festival aims to bring the Thomasian community closer through a celebration of soulful and enchanting music from some of the most celebrated and brilliant performers from the university.

A captivating jazz rendition wouldn't be complete without Gerald Flores, an accomplished performer who is a former principal bass player of the UST Symphony Orchestra and a former member and acting principal bass player of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and the San Miguel Philharmonic Orchestra. He is currently a bass player on GMA 7's All Out Sundays.

Flores, who has graced multiple live shows from some of the country's most looked-up musicians like Ogie Alcasid, Julie Ann San Jose and more, is more than ready to share his lengthy musical journey through an unforgettable and soulful performance.

Ryan Villamor, a distinguished jazz pianist and composer who is also a certified Therapeutic Harp Practitioner, will showcase his unique artistic expression and passion through a healing and delightful performance.

Acclaimed jazz vocalist, coach, composer and producer Lorna Cifra would grace the university's stage through her mastery and commitment to music. This tireless passion for her craft is reflective of her lengthy and fruitful musical journey, as she has released eight albums and made collaborations with international musicians.

Finally, Fernando S. Mendoza Jr., LPT, will share his God-given talent for drums, guitar, piano and percussion instruments, which will bring a touch of magic and healing that will surely resonate with audiences.

With their passion and dedication to their craft, these critically acclaimed musicians will surely be a memorable experience, especially for those who foster a shared love for music and camaraderie.

The event also falls hours before Simbang Gabi, an annual Catholic tradition that can be observed and celebrated at the university's Santissimo Rosario Parish — making it a much more meaningful experience.

The Family Christmas Jazz Festival will be on 16 December, from 4 p.m. onwards at the university's BGPOP building.

Moreover, there are more activities in store for the Thomasian community. The Agape or the Thomasian Christmas feast will occur on 13 December, while the much-awaited Paskuhan celebration will be on 21 December.