Shangri-La Plaza Unveils Its Dazzling Christmas Tree in a Spectacular Holiday Ceremony

Shangri-La Plaza ushered in the Christmas season with grandeur and heartfelt festivity as it held its much-awaited annual Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 15 at 6:00 PM in the Grand Atrium. Far from being a simple flip of a switch, this year’s celebration unfolded as an immersive holiday showcase titled A Symphony of Sparkle, a moving musical narrative that illuminated the cherished traditions of a Filipino Christmas—Songs & Splendor, Gatherings, Giving, and child-like Wonder. Guests were invited not only to witness the lighting of the iconic tree but to experience a story brought to life through performance, artistry, and emotion.

Guided by the creative vision of musical director Farley Asuncion and musical arranger Rory Fortich, the spectacle blended live music, dance, narration, and multimedia elements with finesse. Each act highlighted familiar scenes and customs deeply rooted in the Filipino holiday spirit: the warmth of family gatherings, the comforting ritual of Simbang Gabi, and the joy of caroling that fills neighborhoods with harmony. A live band and orchestra provided the rich musical backdrop, setting the tone for an evening of nostalgia and wonder. The performance lineup featured esteemed groups and artists, including the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, the talented musicians of the Manila String Machine, powerhouse vocalists Johann Enriquez and Sheena Lee Palad, and dynamic performances by the Speed Dancers and Ballet Manila, all contributing to the night’s tapestry of sound and movement.

Adding to the sense of celebration, Gucci elevated the day’s festivities with an exclusive event that offered guests a first look at its Cruise 2026 Collection. The fashion showcase was complemented by a curated cocktail experience crafted by Juniper by Josh Boutwood, a restaurant recognized in the Michelin Guide, further enhancing the evening’s atmosphere of refinement and indulgence.

This year, Shangri-La Plaza’s holiday décor enhances the mall’s signature elegance with a theme that marries crystal brilliance and timeless ornaments. Intricately designed elements appear to float midair, culminating in a magnificent suspended Christmas tree installation that commands attention at the center of the mall. A palette of vivid gold and lush green enriches the environment, inviting visitors into a space where nostalgia meets luxury. With its glowing lights, shimmering surfaces, and thoughtfully arranged displays, the décor transforms the mall into a warm, multi-sensory haven of holiday enchantment.

The Christmas celebration continues to build momentum beyond the Grand Tree Lighting, with a series of events and activities throughout the season. Beginning November 15, shoppers can participate in the Wishes & Wheels: Holiday Raffle Promo, where every single receipt worth PHP 2,500 or more earns a chance to win one of two Hybrid Lexus LBX vehicles—an exciting opportunity that captures the spirit of giving and delight.

December at Shang becomes even more festive with Christmas Ensembles: Weekend Showcases of Motion and Melody, a lineup of performances designed to inspire joy and community spirit. Audiences can enjoy the OB Montessori Greenhills on December 12, the Ateneo Boys Choir on December 13, Studio Dance by Lina on December 14, St. Theresa’s College Quezon City on December 20, and the Mandaluyong Children’s Choir on December 21—each offering its own unique expression of holiday cheer.

Families and friends can also gather for a Christmas Day movie tradition as the Metro Manila Film Festival begins screening at the Red Carpet Cinema on December 25. The celebrations continue with Shangri-La Plaza’s Boxing Day Sale on December 26, giving shoppers another chance to snag fantastic deals after the holiday rush.

Finally, Shangri-La Plaza closes the year with brilliance through the Encore of Lights fireworks display on December 30 at 8 PM at the Streetscape, providing a sparkling sendoff to 2025 and a luminous welcome to the New Year.