The spirit of enchantment will be the defining feature of this year’s Christmas festivities, which were planned and curated by the Baguio Tourism Council (BTC).
BTC Chair Gladys Vergara unveiled an array of activities to celebrate “An Enchanting Baguio Christmas,” headlined by the creation of a Christmas Market at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park.
The village promises a festive haven for park goers and revelers throughout the Yuletide season. Vergara assured visitors would be enveloped in the cozy charm of the Baguio Christmas Market.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed the city’s gladness over the events the BTC has laid out.
“Christmas has always been celebrated with spiritual piety as blended with contemporary practices, a much-visited pageant our people have been known for,” he said.
The BTC thanked government agencies and offices for the public support in holding the various Christmas events throughout the holiday season, among them the City Tourism Office, the City Environment and Parks Management Office for enlivening the city parks including the Botanical Garden, the City Engineering Office, and the City Building and Architecture Office for the infrastructure needs of the stage and other platforms, the City Budget Office for the funding needs.
“We’re all doing these events hand in hand between the public and private sectors. By the splendid collaboration of everyone, we’re celebrating Christmas the enchanted way, bewitching returning locals and visitors to spend Yuletide in a city closest to the Philippine skies,” he said.
Highlighting the European-themed Christmas market, Vergara emphasized the irresistible aroma of seasonal treats, ranging from freshly baked gingerbread to roasted chestnuts.
Park goers and revelers are invited to wander through cobblestoned pathways, exploring handcrafted gifts, unique ornaments, and artisanal delights.
The festivities commence with a spectacular light show on Nov. 29, marking the grand launch of the Baguio Christmas Market at the Burnham Park Rose Garden.
On Dec. 1, experience the traditional lighting ceremony, bringing the Baguio Christmas tree atop historic Session Road to life.
Delight in the enchanting Christmas Metamorphosis at the Botanical Garden, open daily, and on Dec. 3, indulge in the whimsical Nutcracker Ballet – a delightful collaboration between the Philippine Military Academy and Ballet Baguio and a PMA Silent Drill will be showcased at the Melvin Jones Grandstand. On Dec. 9, immerse yourself in the melodious notes of the University of Baguio Annual Christmas Cantata at the Rose Garden.
The Baguio Cosplay Community will pay tribute to Filipino heroes with “Pagpupugay sa mga Bayaning Pilipino” on Dec. 30, followed by the grand 2024 New Year’s countdown extravaganza on the next day.
Throughout December, a diverse mix of other festive events and shows will keep the spirit of the season alive.
“From the heartwarming ambiance to the delightful sights and sounds permeating all around, everyone will have a magical Christmas experience worth cherishing long after the essence has dissipated,” she said. – Press release
