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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Luminaries and Life devider A symphony of holiday traditions: A multi-sensory tree lighting experience at Shangri-La Plaza

A symphony of holiday traditions: A multi-sensory tree lighting experience at Shangri-La Plaza

Published Nov 29, 2025 12:50 am  |  Updated Nov 29, 2025 01:03 am
The holiday season is one of the most anticipated festivities in the Philippines. From setting up the bright lights as early as September to completing the nine days of Simbang Gabi (dawn masses), the Filipino holiday traditions make the season even more magical. Rooted in the sense of family, community, and a strong value of faith, the season becomes exciting and eagerly awaited for its traditional gift-giving, singing of carols, noche buena, and other festivities that highlight kinship and togetherness.
(From left) Gucci store manager Frances de Guzman, Vohne Yao of Lucerne Group, Marisol Marcelo of Primer Group, Bea Pambid of Travertine Longevity Clinic, Benedict Sy of Travertine/Avignon, Roxanne Farillas of Plains and Prints and RAF, SPI director of Property Management Miguel Feuermann, SPI vice president for Finance Rajeev Garg, SPI executive vice president for Operations Andrew den Oudsten, councilor Benjamin
(From left) Gucci store manager Frances de Guzman, Vohne Yao of Lucerne Group, Marisol Marcelo of Primer Group, Bea Pambid of Travertine Longevity Clinic, Benedict Sy of Travertine/Avignon, Roxanne Farillas of Plains and Prints and RAF, SPI director of Property Management Miguel Feuermann, SPI vice president for Finance Rajeev Garg, SPI executive vice president for Operations Andrew den Oudsten, councilor Benjamin "Benjie" Abalos III, SPI executive vice president for Retail and Commercial Joy R. Polloso, Christopher Cachuela, Travertine/Avignon, SPI director of Office Leasing Mitzi Blancaflor, family of councilor Abalos, representatives from Rustan’s Rey Cruz, and Peewee Celino
Shangri-La Plaza honors these traditions with depth, artistry, and intention. This year, “Where Traditions Shine Brighter” serves not only as the theme of the Grand Tree Lighting but as the guiding inspiration for the mall’s entire Christmas season. The celebration, which began with “A Symphony of Sparkle,” extends throughout the mall’s festive holiday programming and reflects Shangri-La Plaza’s commitment to transforming beloved Filipino customs into meaningful and beautifully woven experiences for the community.
Held on Nov. 15, the Grand Atrium welcomed guests from the Shang community, bringing together customers, retail partners, collaborators, and residents. Key leaders and executives, such as SPI executive vice president for Operations Andrew den Oudsten, SPI executive vice president for Retail and Commercial Joy R. Polloso, and Councilor Benjamin “Benjie” Abalos III, also graced the occasion.
Cyndi Fernandez-Beltran, Moss Design House
Cyndi Fernandez-Beltran, Moss Design House
(From left) Senior retail marketing manager Arrianne Nadurata, assistant director of Retail Hazel del Castillo, Harlan Holden and Adora owner Eman Pineda, and Harlan Holden and Adora country manager Meileen Cheng
(From left) Senior retail marketing manager Arrianne Nadurata, assistant director of Retail Hazel del Castillo, Harlan Holden and Adora owner Eman Pineda, and Harlan Holden and Adora country manager Meileen Cheng
(From left) SLPC marketing specialist Therese Francisco, SLPC senior retail marketing specialist Pearly Magto, SLPC senior retail marketing manager Arrianne M. Nadurata, asst. director of Retail - Lease Management Hazel Del Castillo, Gucci store operations manager Nicole Garay, and SPI executive vice president for Retail and Commercial Joy Polloso
(From left) SLPC marketing specialist Therese Francisco, SLPC senior retail marketing specialist Pearly Magto, SLPC senior retail marketing manager Arrianne M. Nadurata, asst. director of Retail - Lease Management Hazel Del Castillo, Gucci store operations manager Nicole Garay, and SPI executive vice president for Retail and Commercial Joy Polloso
Before the program began, guests were ushered into a world of refined indulgence with an exclusive preview of Gucci’s Cruise 2026 Collection, complemented by cocktails masterfully crafted by Michelin-selected restaurant Juniper by Josh Boutwood. The experience created an elegant prelude showing Shangri-La Plaza’s signature blend of retail sophistication and elevated hospitality.
What followed was an evening designed not only to illuminate a tree but to awaken that familiar holiday feeling. Guests were taken on a multi-sensory journey filled with glowing lights, stunning visuals, and holiday enchantment. The celebration started with a warm and harmonious storytelling through a poignant musical narrative, presented in four acts: Season of Songs and Splendor, Season of Gatherings, Season of Giving, and Season of Wonder. The production blended music, dance, narration, and multimedia, under the direction of Farley Asuncion and musical arrangement by Rony Fortich. Scored live by a band and an orchestra, it brought to life the spirit of a truly Filipino Christmas and created a festive atmosphere that is both heartfelt and timeless.
The rest of the evening was packed with astounding performances from the Philippine Madrigal Singers, the Manila String Machine, vocal powerhouses Johann Enriquez and Sheena Lee Palad, and captivating performances by the Speed Dancers and Ballet Manila. The musical performance enchanted the guests, reimagining the Grand Atrium into a living stage where tradition and creativity met in graceful cadence.
Philippine Madrigal Singers
Philippine Madrigal Singers
Sheena Lee Palad and Johann Enriquez
Sheena Lee Palad and Johann Enriquez
Ballet Manila
Ballet Manila
Shangri-La Plaza also made sure that the season is indeed felt with its iconic holiday décor that blends crystal brilliance with timeless ornaments, thoughtfully arranged to give the illusion of floating in midair. A massive Christmas tree installation, notable for being the only hanging tree of its scale in the Philippines, suspended at the center, is wrapped in gold details that match the backdrop for a rich, nostalgic vibe, enhanced by luxurious and festive accents.
As Shangri-La Plaza fully embraces the holiday season, a lineup of exciting events and activities awaits guests following the Grand Tree Lighting. Starting Nov. 15, the Wishes and Wheels: Holiday Raffle Promo offers the chance to win one of two Hybrid Lexus LBX vehicles with a single receipt purchase of P2,500 or more.
This December, enjoy a delightful lineup of performances with “Christmas Ensembles: Weekend Showcases of Motion and Melody,” featuring OB Montessori Greenhills on Dec. 12, the Ateneo Boys Choir on Dec. 13, Studio Dance by Lina on Dec. 14, St. Theresa’s College Quezon City on Dec. 20, and the Mandaluyong Children’s Choir on Dec. 21.
The magic of Christmas is revealed in moments that feel personal, heartfelt, and beautifully curated. These festive events, performances, and gatherings create lasting memories, binding families and communities together in celebration. As the season unfolds, Shangri-La Plaza invites all to come together and let their holidays shine brighter than ever.
Follow their official Facebook page for more updates.

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