Christmas in Manila: 15 Must-visit Places During the Holiday Season
By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV
The blend of Filipino customs and modern celebrations makes Christmas in Manila special. Dazzling parols light the streets, and the aroma of traditional favorites like bibingka and lechon fills the air.
The holiday spirit comes alive in every inch of the sprawling city, and families all over the country aim to make the most of it. There are plenty of things to do and sights to see during Christmas in Manila. You wouldn’t want to miss out on this once-a-year celebration.
15 Places to Celebrate Christmas in Manila
Metro Manila offers an array of experiences that capture the essence of the Christmas season you can’t find anywhere else. Hop in your car (or on the nearest kalesa) and visit these venues while they’re here.
1. Experience the Ayala Triangle Lights Show
Visit the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati CBD this Christmas and watch a spectacular light show that’ll stop you in your tracks. The Ayala Triangle Lights Show is one of those sights people living in Paseo de Roces or anywhere nearby must see. It features a symphony of lights, colors, and projections set to classic Christmas tunes.
2. Attend the Grand Marian Procession in Intramuros
The Grand Marian Procession in Intramuros is a solemn Christmas tradition that pays homage to the Virgin Mary. It features a grand parade with carriages adorned with flowers, carrying images of the Blessed Mother.
The procession is deeply rooted in Filipino’s religious background and takes place in one of the most historical sites in the country. It’s a captivating experience that intersects faith and festivities.
3. Marvel at Manila Ocean Park’s Christmas Underwater
For a truly one-of-a-kind holiday experience, dive into the festivities at Manila Ocean Park—a must-visit venue easily accessible to anyone living in a condo near Taft Avenue.
Watch in awe as their underwater tunnels and Christmas attractions give you a unique view of marine life. Anyone, from the youngest kids to the eldest grandparents, will surely enjoy them. Exclusive Christmas discounts make this a perfect outing for families looking for a festive twist on marine exploration.
4. Take a gander over at the Meralco Liwanag Park
It shouldn’t be surprising that the largest electric company has one of the most stunning light displays. Meralco’s Liwanag Park transforms into a mesmerizing display of lights illuminating the surroundings as night falls at the heart of Ortigas.
Take your family on a delightful stroll through the park’s pathways filled with vibrant holiday-themed decorations and embrace the spirit of the season together.
5. Watch a few (or all) Metro Manila Film Festival movies
Films become nothing short of magical during Christmas. Theaters across Metro Manila showcase a diverse selection of local films, allowing you to enjoy captivating stories and exceptional filmmaking with your friends or family.
Whether you’re a film enthusiast or just looking for a cozy indoor activity, the MMFF provides a cinematic touch to your holiday celebrations.
6. Go Christmas shopping in nearby malls
Christmas is not only a time for coming together with your family but also a season of massive discounts and exciting promotions. Brands offer highly appealing product deals, slashing prices to a level that makes checking off your Christmas list too easy.
Beautifully decorated malls like MET Live in Pasay or MITSUKOSHI BGC elevate the shopping experience, making each gift even more special. You’ll find diverse treats from stores, whether a high-end boutique or a local market.
7. Explore the French Christmas Market in Makati
Get a taste of European holiday traditions at the French Christmas Market in Makati, hosted by the French Chamber of Commerce. This charming market features authentic French delicacies, handcrafted goods, and holiday-themed treats. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts and indulge in artisanal cheeses, wines, and pastries. Held in the heart of Makati, this event offers a delightful twist to your typical holiday shopping experience.
8. Complete all nights of the simbang gabi
It wouldn’t be Christmas without simbang gabi—a series of nine masses celebrated every day leading up to Christmas Eve. As one of the most popular family Christmas traditions, attendees all over the country gather in churches to celebrate this cherished religious observance.
In the air, you’ll hear traditional hymns and smell festive delicacies like puto bumbong, a treat you can buy and eat once the mass ends. Simbang gabi is not only a testament to devotion and faith but also an opportunity to connect with the deep-rooted spirituality that defines Christmas for many Filipinos.
9. Enjoy the concert over at UST’s Paskuhan
The University of Santo Tomas is one of the oldest universities in Asia and holds an annual holiday event that turns the campus into a venue of lively celebration. Paskuhan celebrates Christmas in Manila in its special way, featuring musical acts, grandiose lights, and a festive atmosphere.
Although the concert is exclusive to students and alums, the UST Museum and Santísimo Rosario Parish are open to other attendees.
10. Attend the UP Lantern Parade
The University of the Philippines’ Lantern Parade isn’t just a display of artistic talent. For many, it’s also a celebration of unity, creativity, and festive spirit that thrives throughout the campus. Watch the UP community as they compete to create the most stunning lanterns and win a cash prize while celebrating the end of yet another eventful academic year.
Gaze at the illuminated night skies at UP Diliman’s Lantern Parade, a stone’s throw away from The Capital Towers.
11. Attend the Simbang Gabi at San Agustin Church
San Agustin Church in Intramuros, the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a uniquely historic setting for Simbang Gabi. The stunning Baroque architecture, candle-lit ambiance, and traditional Christmas hymns create a reverent and festive atmosphere. After the mass, treat yourself to traditional Filipino delicacies like bibingka and puto bumbong from nearby street vendors.
12. Experience the Paskong Kultura Festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)
For decades, the CCP has honored the rich tradition of Filipino holiday culture through a vibrant mix of music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Enjoy classical holiday concerts by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, colorful folk dances by the Bayanihan Dance Company, and contemporary interpretations of Christmas themes. The CCP grounds are also beautifully decorated, making it a delightful cultural experience.
13. Join the Christmas Carol Concert at the Manila Cathedral
The Manila Cathedral in Intramuros hosts an annual Christmas Carol Concert that showcases choirs, orchestras, and soloists performing beloved holiday classics. The stunning neo-Romanesque interior and rich acoustics of this historic church create a magical setting for a night of music and reflection. It’s a heartwarming event perfect for families, music lovers, and those seeking the true spirit of Christmas.
14. Celebrate at the Malate Church’s Christmas Festival
The historic Malate Church, overlooking Manila Bay, celebrates the season with a festive Christmas festival. The event includes community masses, choir performances, and a lively parol (lantern) competition. The adjacent Malate Plaza transforms into a hub of activity with food stalls, craft booths, and live music. The festival culminates in a joyous Christmas Eve mass and fireworks display, making it a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
15. Immerse Yourself in the Paskotitap Festival in Pasig City
Pasig City’s Paskotitap Festival is a vibrant celebration featuring a grand parade of illuminated floats, street dancers, and performers in dazzling costumes. This colorful event highlights Filipino creativity and holiday spirit, with themes ranging from traditional nativity scenes to pop culture references. The festival ends with a spectacular fireworks display, making it a fantastic outing for families and anyone looking to experience a modern twist on Filipino Christmas festivities.
Create a Lasting Memory of Manila’s Holiday Offers
Christmas in Manila isn’t just a holiday—it’s a generational tradition for many families. There’s something for everyone, from the Ayala Triangle Lights Show to the UP Lantern Parade.
The holidays turn Manila into an even more glorious city to live in, with warm celebrations happening at every corner. Christmas decor lines the streets and the front of every home, illuminating the city as families gather for this special occasion.
If you’ve been looking for a new home in a neighborhood that celebrates Christmas as seriously as you do, consider condo for sale in Pasay and other Metro Manila properties from Federal Land. Federal Land is the leading real estate developer in the Philippines, offering thoughtfully designed, ready-for-occupancy units.
Contact us to discover a place for your family to call home this Christmas and every year after.
Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV
Digital Marketing Head
Martin is an experienced marketer with over 16 years of experience across various industries including real estate, banking and finance, technology, and advertising.
Martin has a broad range of expertise in having handled campaigns, brand launches, activations both in the traditional and digital space. Currently serving as the Digital Marketing Head at Federal Land, Martin leads a team focused on managing digital sales and platforms for the residential, estates and commercial business units.