Get Ready for a Radiant Holiday Experience in Makati

This post was last updated on November 8th, 2024 at 12:58 pm

Experience radiance at its brightest during the most awaited holiday celebration in Makati, featuring a city-wide visual extravaganza, enchanting performances, festive street markets, and the grandest NYE countdown party

Come together in the city that continues to bring cheer to the community, year after year! Make It Makati and Ayala Land bring the magic of Christmas, once again—and this time with holiday experiences that are even bigger and brighter! ‘A Radiant Holiday Experience in Makati’ is officially happening on November 6, with the Ayala Avenue lighting ceremony signaling the start of the season. Witness the city’s transformation into a picturesque holiday haven, celebrating the colors of Christmas through enchanting lights, lively performances, cultural encounters, and well-loved traditions—all throughout the world’s longest holiday celebration.

Ayala Land executives with some members of the PSYO at the media launch of A Radiant Holiday Experience in Makati

A Feast for the Senses: Festival of Lights 2024

Makati is unveiling a spectacular display of Christmas lighting, illuminating more places than ever before! From the Makati Central Business District (MCBD) to Circuit Makati, the city will glow with a warm and inviting atmosphere, welcoming everyone to come together and remember the essence of the season.

Festivities officially begin with the iconic lighting ceremony of Ayala Avenue. This year’s decorations feature a new design approach on traditional Filipino symbols. Trees adorned with Kapampangan parol-inspired patterns will twinkle alongside beloved classics, such as stars and capiz-adorned lights. Spanning the entire stretch of Ayala Avenue, at 1.9 kilometers, this enchanting display aims to honor the beauty and intricacy of Filipino heritage.

Another must-visit is Ayala Triangle Gardens, which presents a multi-sensory corridor designed to awaken the senses. Mirror frames emit a neon glow and starbursts cast a celestial radiance across the landscape. Beyond the sparkle of lights, the corridor incorporates elements that stimulate sight, scent, and sound—offering a medley of encounters and creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

The spirit of festivity extends to Jaime Velasquez (Salcedo) Park and Legaspi Park, where the holiday décors weave a magical tapestry throughout the MCBD. Furthermore, South Avenue reflects the awe of the season with parols stretching all the way to Circuit Makati, which stands as another festive wonderland, bedazzled with trees, lights, and glimmering installations.

Teddy Tan, founding member and current concertmaster of the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra (PSYO)

A musical merriment: Festive Melodies at Ayala Triangle Gardens

Witness the spirit of Christmas come alive, with mesmerizing daily performances set to fill Ayala Triangle Gardens. Throughout the weekdays, the Gardens will host a selection of Makati’s most beloved buskers—such as sax busker Jolo Ramiro, TetViolin, Rose Ko, and The Accordionist—bringing the holiday spirit to life with their unique styles and captivating performances. Random Smiles, a caricature artist, will also be present to draw Christmas themed portraits.

Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra

Meanwhile, on weekends, the Gardens transform into a grand stage, where special headliners elevate the experience with orchestral music and choirs. Among the highlights include the Stellar Diva, Bituin Escalante with the Habemus Pappas, the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, the internationally acclaimed UST singers, The Luminaries (Arman Ferrer, Floyd Tena, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, Kayla Rivera and Yanah Laurel), Ballet Manila and Steps Dance Project and many other top Filipino artists such as balladeer Gian Magdangal, Soprano Lara Maigue and the multi awarded acapella group Acapellago. 

Amidst the melodic beauty of the season, Ayala Triangle Gardens is hosting Simbang Gabi services starting December 15 until December 23, inviting families to express their gratitude and faith in keeping with tradition.

Sax busker Jolo Ramiro
Schedule of performances

Meeting of cultures: Festive markets and activities at Paseo De Roxas

Embrace the spirit of unity at Paseo De Roxas, where a vibrant array of festive markets and activities await. The celebration kicks off with A Spectrum Holiday on November 9 to 10, featuring an eclectic mix of merchants offering food, fashion, cosmetics, pet essentials, and more, catering to every taste and preference.

Street market and cycling event schedules

Additionally, Makati offers a multicultural Christmas experience in collaboration with embassies, showcasing unique traditions and flavors from around the globe. The French Beaujolais event on November 16 to 17, in partnership with the French Embassy, invites guests to savor the finest wines produced in the Beaujolais district of southeastern France, complemented by culinary offerings that celebrate French gastronomy. From December 7 to 8, Makati launches Sleigh the Streets, an event organized in partnership with the Cycling Community. Known for its bike-friendly roads, Makati invites cycling enthusiasts to enjoy a refreshing course around the city, promoting outdoor fun and camaraderie.

Of course, the festivities would not be complete without the French Christmas Market on December 14 to 15 and 21 to 22. Following last year’s success, Makati is once again partnering with the French Embassy to offer a taste of traditional French delicacies, gifts, and experiences.

NYE event schedule

Countdown to 2025: Best of the Best Filipino Talent at Ayala Avenue

Get ready for an epic night at the Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown, as the grandest and biggest NYE’s celebration returns featuring the best of the best artists! Welcome the Silver Jubilee of the Millennium with a bang—commemorating 25 years of exceptional milestones and transformative moments. True to its mission in providing a platform for global Filipino artists, the New Year’s Eve celebration will once again feature the biggest Filipino talents of 2024. Celebrate a new chapter whilst reveling in the iconic sounds of artists and changemakers that have shaped the artistic and entertainment landscape over the years.

The event promises a powerhouse, high-energy concert celebration highlighted by musical artists that have had the biggest impact in 2024. The stage will span the width of Ayala Avenue standing several storeys high, counting down to the new year in style. The night kicks off as the DJ sets the vibe with our favorite dance hits, followed by performances from artists who headlined the most attended and talked about concerts we had this year. The main event is the grand countdown as Makati welcomes 2025 with a massive fireworks display and continues on with an afterparty, filling the celebratory air with joy, laughter, and a lot of dancing!

A timeless city that transcends generations

It has been decades since Makati began its quest to spread holiday cheer to Makatizens. With its pioneering initiatives, the city rose to popularity as the destination for festive celebrations. Rich with fond encounters, heartwarming reunions, and unforgettable conversations, Makati is home to a trove of memories, enriching the community with stories that are forever priceless. In this city, these stories are never ending. And it continues to make the magic happen.

Revel in A Radiant Holiday Experience at Makati this 2024 and welcome 2025 in the most vibrant spirit!

For complete details and updates, follow @MakeItMakati on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, X and Threads.

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