Filipino artistry is front and center in this year’s Christmas décor along Ayala Avenue in Makati City.
Always a much-awaited event during the Yuletide season, the lighting of the street on Nov. 5 saw bronze-colored, cone-shaped Christmas trees and angel wings with intricate patterns reminiscent of the decors that lined and lit up the city’s lamp posts decades ago.
“The trees have always been a symbol of life and light, and we wanted to use these elements to impart a message of hope and strength to everyone. It’s always a joy to be able to share a meaningful Christmas with every Filipino family through our installations,” enthused Cathy Bengzon, corporate marketing head of Ayala Land.
Designed by premier event stylist and interior designer Zenas Pineda, the entire stretch features local materials and products such as abanico-shaped installations and Capiz chandeliers, as well as solihiya and adarna feather patterns, which signify the rich heritage of Filipinos.
Gracing the street lighting were Ayala Land executives and Makati City officials, including Ayala Land Inc. Chairman Emeritus Jaime Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Land Inc. president and chief executive Bobby Dy, Congressman Luis Campos, and Mayor Abby Binay, among others.
In addition to the lighting of Ayala Avenue, several activities are in store, including new additions to the light and sounds display and never-before seen installations showcasing brilliant Filipino talent.
The Ayala Avenue Street Lighting is part of the Gallery of Lights, which is a roster of light and art installations in the city that paves the way for a dynamic Christmas celebration by Ayala Land. The Gallery of Lights includes the annual Festival of Lights, giant lanterns, and 3D video mapping which will be launched on Nov. 12 at Ayala Triangle Gardens.
Holiday bazaar Circuit Holiday Night Market on Nov. 15-17 at Circuit Makati will showcase homegrown and Filipino items, while the Makati Street Meet on the Nov. 17, Dec. 1, and Dec. 15 will feature good food, music, and fun activities. There will be Anticipated Simbang Gabi on Dec. 15-23 at Ayala Triangle Gardens.
