It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Manila Hotel, as they officially welcomed the holiday season with the eagerly anticipated Christmas tree lighting ceremony. On 6 November, the Grand Dame sparkled with renewed grandeur, marking the beginning of the season in timeless style.

A festive celebration of Filipino heritage

Each year, the hotel’s grand lobby transforms into the heart of Manila’s Christmas festivities, with a towering Christmas tree adorned in sparkling ornaments and twinkling lights taking center stage.

This year, guests are invited to a uniquely Filipino holiday celebration with the theme, Pasko Natin! — a heartfelt tribute to the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage infused with the warmth of the season. This year’s yuletide décor is the creation of the hotel’s social director and design consultant Rachy Cuna, who has masterfully incorporated the salakot, a traditional Filipino headgear, and native materials. This design showcases Filipino artistry, creating a memorable Filipino Christmas experience that honors tradition while embracing the season’s joy.

A day of celebration and community spirit

The annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, a symbol of hope and peace, was further enriched by the performance of children from The House of Refuge Foundation, who performed song and dance numbers. The foundation is a long-time partner of The Manila Hotel dedicated to providing shelter and support for street children. This partnership reflects the hotel’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, playing a vital role in shaping brighter futures for these young individuals.

Beyond the visual splendor, the hotel’s Christmas decorations embody the rich heritage and timeless charm of The Manila Hotel, serving as a symbol of true Filipino hospitality. With its festive ambiance, The Manila Hotel remains a cherished holiday destination for Manileños and visitors alike.

Distinguished guests and a heartwarming ceremony

The festivities were graced by distinguished guests including The Manila Hotel executives Basilio Yap, Atty. Jose Lina, Jr., Dr. Enrique Yap, Jr., Marvin Kim Tan, Ambassador of Israel Ilan Fluss, Minister of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines deputy representative Dustin Teng-Shi Yang, and Bb. Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra.

Adding to the festive celebration, the Office of the President Chorale serenaded guests with classic Christmas carols, filling the lobby with the melodies of the season.

“Our Christmas Tree becomes more than just a decoration each year — it becomes the heart of the city’s holiday gatherings,” said The Manila Hotel president Atty. Joey Lina, Jr. “At The Manila Hotel, we are proud to make the holidays seamless for our guests, from our festive hampers to our grand lobby décor, creating a true home away from home for the season.”