Makati, the heart of the Philippines, has welcomed the holidays by lighting up Ayala Avenue — a tradition that signals the true beginning of the Christmas season in the country for many Filipino families -- last 13 November. At the lighting ceremony were performances by Cris Villonco, Shiela Valderrama, Arman Ferrer, the Chorale Society of Makati and Mari Dance.

This year, Ayala Land and Make It Makati present Makati in Color: Where Christmas Tradition Meets Imagination. The Yuletide theme is a vibrant contemporary take on Filipino symbols expressed through unexpected colors, patterns and forms. Inspired by the sarimanok (a symbol of prosperity) and anahaw (a symbol of resilience), the pieces reinterpret heritage in ways that reflect Makati’s character as a thought leader in urban creativity and innovation.

Meean Dy, president and CEO of Ayala Land, says, “This year’s theme reflects that spirit of creativity and renewal. These designs celebrate Filipino heritage expressed in a modern, contemporary way, much like Makati itself.”

Makati in Color is a celebration that combines the estate-wide Christmas décor with a full season of performances, shows and community activities. This year’s festivities, weave design, music, craft and culture into a uniquely textured Filipino Christmas experience. Also, the lights now extend beyond Ayala Avenue and Ayala Triangle Gardens, illuminating Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue to create a more connected and immersive holiday experience.

In addition, Makati’s flagship malls—starting with Greenbelt—also join the celebration by lighting up their own spaces. From the Makati Central Business District to Circuit Makati, the theme travels across the city, unifying Makati under one contemporary Christmas story.

Part of this year’s expanded festivities is Paskong Likha, a curated lineup of shows, installations, markets and creative activities brought to life across different corners of Ayala Triangle Gardens.

Makati’s lights are on at Ayala Avenue, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Center Makati and Circuit Makati until 11 January 2026. The celebrations altogether create a living canvas that’s vibrant, textured and unmistakably Filipino.