That wonderful feeling of hope and joy was felt when the Araneta Center switched on the lights on the 100-foot Christmas tree at the Gateway Food Park, beside the Smart Araneta Coliseum. This has been a tradition at the Center for the last 35 years.
It was a celebration of the magic of Christmas with the hottest Kapamilya celebrities—Alex Gonzaga, Loisa Andalio and Iñigo Pascual, along with the talented batch of Goin’ Bulilit mainstays Mutya Orquia, Nhickzy Calma, Marco Masa, Izzy Canillo, and Xyriel Manabat.
Also part of the sparkling lineup of stars was Maris Racal, as well as the famous teens of Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky Season 7 Vivoree Esclito and Marco Gallo.
PLDT held a 15-minute pre-show to promote its Christmas deals and promos. It also conducted games for the audience.
Daryl Ong and Jason Dy of ASAP Soul Sessions serenaded fans, together with ASAP Birit queen Jonalyn Viray. Former PBB housemate Dawn Chang heated things up with a sexy dance number.
It’s Showtime host Vice Ganda, with Araneta Vice Chairman Judy A. Roxas and other executives of the Araneta Center, led the ceremonial lighting of the tree.
The lovely Binibining Pilipinas 2016 winners also graced the occasion, led by Miss Grand International 1st Runner-Up Nicole Cordoves.
Making the event more meaningful this year, the Araneta Center invited street children under the He Cares Mission to experience the momentous tree lighting. The kids had a chance to see their favorite stars up close.
The kids also were treated to an early Christmas dinner and received their early Christmas gifts.
Music filled the air with performances from the Four Wheel Drive band, and capped by a grand fireworks display. Also a highlight of the night was the revelation of what Araneta Center has in store for shoppers and Center visitors this December.
Gateway Food Park
Continuing with the valued tradition of sharing blessings, Araneta Center is giving away a brand new Isuzu mu-X to a lucky patron, while 10 lucky patrons can win an overnight stay at the Novotel Manila Araneta Center. The “Feel the Ride” Christmas promo runs from until Jan. 15, 2017, and shoppers will be eligible to join for a single receipt purchase worth P1000. As a way to express deepest gratitude to its online supporters, the Center’s “60 Gifts for 60 Days” promo is also ongoing on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The promo runs every day until Dec. 23.
The Araneta Center Grand Christmas Tree Lighting was made possible by PLDT Home, Coca-Cola, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Dairy Queen, and Jollibee.
Photos by Sonny Espiritu
