Gridcrosser: Baguio Lights Up for Christmas

Baguio City's Christmas tree is made of stained-glass windows showing Chrstmas images (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Visitors and vacationers flocked to Baguio City during the last weekend of November and as December arrived. The commercial hub in the mountainous Cordillera Region has been a favorite getaway of Filipinos, especially during the dry, hot months and holiday, including the Christmas season. Perhaps the nippy weather is closely associated with the one of most beloved holidays, perhaps making the air of Christmas much more intense. And Baguio City has prepared events and attractions to delight holiday excursionists.

Last December 1, the city government unveiled its own Christmas tree in a well-attended lighting ceremony at the upper portion of the city’s busiest and most historic stretch, Session Road. The program, graced by local government officials and employees, included performances by the SLU (Saint Louis University) Marching Band, University of Baguio Voices and the University of the Cordillera Dance Company.

Erected on a central island of a roundabout, Baguio City’s Christmas tree is of modern design by architect Nikki Monica Perez—an assemblage depicting stained-glass cathedral windows that show classic Christmas images—visible even from the end of Session Road and Burnham Park. It is described as “a fusion of art and faith that is meant to be more than just decoration. It aims to reflect the values of our city charter and the aspirations of our city as we continue to move forward and celebrate our milestones and cherish our learnings this year with faith, love and hope. The tree is deemed to be a place of reflection and also as a visual prayer. As we gather around it, we are transported to the first Christmas night, experiencing anew the wonder and joy of that sacred moment. The tree is envisioned to become a symbol of hope, reminding us of the promise of salvation and the enduring power of love. In a world often filled with chaos and uncertainty, this stained-glass nativity tree would stand as a testament to the enduring light of Christmas, a beacon of faith and hope for all who behold it.”

“It truly tells us the story of Christmas and the characters and events that surround it,” Baguio City mayor Benjamin Magalong enthused. “This year's design will remind us right away of the real reason for the season, the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

In his speech during the lighting ceremony, he explained: “As we light this sacred edifice tonight, may it serve as a reminder of the values of faith, hope, and love. Faith in the goodness of humanity and the divine plan that guides us even in uncertain times. Faith in each other and faith in our city's leaders. Hope amidst all the challenges that we face today—climate change, diseases, pandemics, political instability and corruption. Just as these lanterns illuminate our path tonight, may hope light our way as we rebuild, renew, and aspire for a better tomorrow for the city and the whole Filipino nation. And above all, love, the greatest gift of all. It is love that drives us, our acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. It is this season of giving and let us embrace the spirit of love, not only for our families and friends, but for those in need, for our environment, and for the generations that will follow.”

The lighting ceremony was followed by another annual city attraction, the 16th SLU Lantern Parade. This year, the lanterns were in the shape of cultural icons of different countries. The parade went down Session Road, which sparkled with Christmas lights and lanterns.

The Christmas tree lighting ceremony and the lantern parade are part of An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2024, a series of events and attractions prepared by the city government and the Baguio Tourism Council.

Last November 28, the Baguio Christmas Market was opened at the Rose Garden of Burnham Park. Inspired by the Christmas fairs of Europe, it features stores in thematic designs, rides and regular shows. Baguio Botanical Garden was also spruced up for Botanical Christmas Garden with Faith, Hope and Love. Another popular attraction is the Baguio Country Club Christmas Village.

Every weekend, the city mounts free shows together with the city’s academic institutions and performing arts groups. Notable ones include The Nutcracker Suite by the Ballet Baguio; the “University of Baguio Christmas Cantata: A Journey to Bethlehem;” the “YesUCan Concert” by the University of the Cordilleras; and a drag show, “Frost and Fierce: An Enchanting Christmas Drag Race” on December 21.

The Simbang Gabi (Anticipated Mass) tradition will be held at Rose Garden from December 15 to 23.

For local communities, different contests and activities are also lined up.

An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2024 will culminate with New Year’s countdown event at the Melvin Jones Grandstand on December 31 and An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2024 Closing Ceremony on January 5, 2025.