December 21, 2023

Christmas in Manila: 10 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. 

10 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 Pasay.

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. As part of their Christmas season online discount, the park marked down tickets from PHP 3,300 to only PHP 699, making now the best time to visit.

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. Celebrate Paskuhan at the Mehan Garden

The holidays turn the historic site Mehan Garden into a must-visit venue, as this is where Pasko sa Maynila Grand Bazaar happens.

This Christmas event features more than 100 small local businesses in the city where families can buy holiday goodies. You can also see Filipino favorite snacks and treats here, bringing communities together to celebrate the season in a uniquely Filipino way.

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.

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 Manila properties from Federal Land. Federal Land is the premier real estate Philippine developer 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.