Once Upon A Christmas Tree

'Tis X'mas at the Araneta Center 

  By Earl D.C. Bracamonte 

Araneta Center green-lighted its circus-like Holiday celebrations for the entire family with an ABS-CBN all-star cast extravaganza very recently. Dubbed “Once Upon a Christmas Tree: An Araneta Center Fairy Tale,” spectators discovered the spirit of the season by experiencing first-hand the enchantment of its fabulously-lighted giant Christmas tree. Now on its 29th year, this annual tradition started way back in 1981 as a commemoration to the start of the Yuletide season. 

With a spruced-up look and an exciting live show put together by corporate sponsor Coca-Cola, the Holiday Special featured games, contests, and performances by Kapamilya stars that included Anne Curtis, Erik Santos, Karylle, Gretchen Barreto, Sheryn Regis, Nikki Gil, Rachelle Anne Go, Rhap Salazar, Gab Valenciano, Sinosikat, Kris Lawrence, Yeng Constantino, Claire dela Fuente, Princess Velasco, Mickey Perz, Sam Concepcion, Enchong Dee, and Kim Chiu together with the reigning Bb. Pilipinas titlists - Ms. Universe 4th Runner-up Ma. Venus Raj, Bb. Pilipinas-International Krista Kleiner,and Bb. Pilipinas-World Czarina Gatbonton. 

Explore the ultimate in unique bargain shopping at the newly-opened Farmers Plaza Bazaar where shoppers are sure to find something for everyone on their list. The bazaar is located at the 3rd Level and showcases a wide assortment of toys, clothes, gift items, and a whole lot more. 

This weekend, celebrate the true meaning of the Holidays with the Belen Lighting ceremony at the Farmers Market, featuring life-sized images of the Holy Family depicting the Nativity scene. Also, don't forget to check out the dazzling display of lights and the special window dressing that adorn the parol shops dotting the vicinity. 

For your tykes, treat them and the rest of the family to a splendid Christmas show with the Great China Circus at the Big Dome and/or catch the 'Angels of the Sea' with the dolphin & sea lion show at the Telus parking area. You'll be thrilled to see both these amazing feats from Christmas Day throughout the New Year. 

 Kiddie dreams will come true with the return of the classic children shows Batibot, Manang Bola, Ging-Ging & Ning-Ning with your favorite PBA cagers holding storytelling sessions at Gateway, Ali Mall, and Farmers Plaza malls. 

Holiday shoppers will definitely enjoy the bustle and good cheer of Yuletide with periodic spectacular fireworks displays and Christmas chorale performances every weekend of November throughout the whole of December. All these plus a fantastic photo opportunity with Santa himself makes Araneta Center the perfect one-stop Christmas shopping destination! 

Join the many festive extravaganzas that'll surely put you in the best Holiday spirit. Thrill to the sights and sounds of the Yuletide season and experience a truly splendid Christmas at any of the Araneta Center shops.