Araneta City lights up Christmas with Anne Curtis, other stars
Despite its ever changing landscape, there are still some time-honored traditions that are entrenched in the heart of Araneta City.
First to introduce an outdoor giant tree lighting ceremony way back in 1981, the Araneta City takes pride in this annual tradition that attracts people from all walks of life, from different parts of the country.
The iconic Araneta City giant tree will light up on November 8 at the Times Square Food Park. Now on its 38th year, it is still one of the most anticipated events in the City of Firsts. The centerpiece of the festivities will be adorned with 750 pieces of 9-foot pine garlands; diamond ornaments some as large as 30 inches; 250 cascading lights; sputnik and strobe lights; and over 1,500 Christmas balls in silver and gold, as well as teal in line with the new colors of the recently rebranded Araneta City.
More than the glitz and fun of the tree lighting, this event underlines the Araneta Group’s commitment of giving back and helping those in need. The Araneta Group, in partnership with the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, will be pledging its support to UNICEF’S Alternative Learning System (ALS) for Out of School Youth in the Philippines through a recommitment signing. UNICEF Education officer Ms. Giti Mohn will be present.
It is only fitting, then, that Araneta City’s annual giant Christmas tree lighting will be headlined by UNICEF National Goodwill Ambassador Anne Curtis. She’s become quite the familiar face around Araneta City as she’s had her first major solo concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with several successful follow-ups, and even hosted the country’s first and most prestigious national pageant, the Binibining Pilipinas.
Other celebrities are lined up to appear in this fun-filled event, namely MayWard love team member Edward Barber; former Pinoy Big Brother housemates Lou Yanong, Andre Brouillette, Yamyam Gucong, and Fumiya Sankai; Idol Philippines 2019 champ Zephanie Dimaranan, and same-season finalist Lucas Garcia; as well as AC Bonifacio from the Dance Kids grand champion Lucky Aces.
Binibining Pilipinas 2019 Queens will also be present to light up the giant Christmas tree.
The show, which will start at 4:30 pm for the traditional tree blessing, will be hosted by DJ Chacha and Fifth Solomon. Admission is free.
Aside from the giant Christmas tree, the Times Square Food Park will also serve as the home of the Christmas Animated Display, which will have its own festive and ceremonial launch on November 13. With fun rides and a plethora of dining options, the Times Square Food Park is one of the must-visit destinations in Araneta City this Christmas.
For more information and other Araneta City updates, follow @AranetaCity on Facebook and Twitter