The magic of Christmas comes alive through traditions, music, beautiful decorations, and moments shared with the people who make the season meaningful. At Grand Westside Manila Bay, this festive spirit took center stage during its Christmas Tree Lighting celebration held on November 12.
Welcoming distinguished guests, corporate partners, media representatives, and friends, the hotel presented an enchanting holiday experience under the theme “A European Christmas Village, Celebrated with a Filipino Heart.” The celebration brought together the elegance of European Christmas traditions and the warmth of Filipino hospitality in one memorable evening.
The event was graced by Hon. Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez, Mayor of Parañaque City; Hon. Councilor Pablo “Paolo” A. Olivarez II, First District of Parañaque City; Undersecretary Capt. Stanley Ng of the Department of Tourism; Ms. Anna Liza Vergara, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hospitality; and Pastor Dr. Rafael Alfonso. Executives from Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, industry representatives, business partners, and hotel guests also joined the celebration.
Mayor Olivarez shared a message highlighting the significance of the occasion for Grand Westside Manila Bay and the city of Parañaque. The hotel, with its impressive 1,528 rooms, holds the distinction of being the largest hotel in the Philippines based on room count and continues to contribute to the development of Entertainment City's hospitality and tourism sector.
Stepping inside the hotel's festive setting felt like entering a charming European Christmas village. Twinkling lights, gingerbread houses, lush holiday greenery, and European-inspired market stalls created a picturesque holiday atmosphere. Adding a distinctly Filipino touch were traditional parols, while the graceful performance of a live harpist provided a beautiful musical welcome for guests.
Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay, welcomed everyone and shared the inspiration behind this year's Christmas celebration. The concept reflects a beautiful blend of European holiday charm and the heartfelt warmth of Filipino Christmas traditions.
“Christmas has always been about the people we share it with. This year, we wanted to bring a little European Christmas charm to Grand Westside Manila Bay while keeping the warmth of a Filipino Christmas at the heart of our celebration. More than the lights and decorations, it's about family, friendship, gratitude and finding ways to share our blessings with others.” ~Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay
The magic of Christmas became even more special when the executives and distinguished guests of Grand Westside Manila Bay gathered for the ceremonial toast and Christmas Tree Lighting. As the tree sparkled with festive lights, it marked the beginning of the hotel's holiday celebrations and a season filled with togetherness, joy, and shared memories.
The evening became even more touching with the performance of Minstrels Rhythm of Hope – Little Singers. Their heartwarming Christmas carols brought the spirit of the holidays to life, reminding everyone of the simple happiness that music and sharing can bring. Joining the celebration were Yna Angela Uy, Ms. Chinatown Global Philippines 2026, and Jyron Ngo, Mr. Chinatown Global 1st Runner-Up, who added to the festive atmosphere.
A Village of Giving
For Grand Westside Manila Bay, Christmas is not only about beautiful decorations and celebrations but also about sharing blessings with others. This spirit inspired the launch of A Village of Giving, a special Christmas community initiative supporting the children of Minstrels Rhythm of Hope – Little Singers.
Carrying the heartfelt message “Little Gifts. Big Smiles.”, the initiative celebrates the Filipino value of generosity and reminds everyone that even simple acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in a child's life.
Through Minstrels Rhythm of Hope - Little Singers, children from disadvantaged communities are given opportunities to explore their musical abilities, strengthen their confidence, and pursue their education. Seeing the young singers perform during the Christmas Tree Lighting made the cause even more personal, giving guests a chance to connect with the children whose lives the initiative hopes to brighten.
From November 12 to December 21, 2026, guests, visitors, and hotel associates can participate by leaving gifts and donations at the dedicated donation house beside the Christmas tree in the hotel lobby. These contributions will be shared with the children in time for Christmas.
It's a beautiful reminder that the true magic of the season is not just found in sparkling lights, but in the kindness we share and the smiles we help create.
A Season of Festive Flavours and Traditions
The festive atmosphere at Grand Westside Manila Bay continues beyond its Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, welcoming guests to enjoy a variety of holiday experiences throughout the season.
One of the attractions to explore is the Christmas Village Market, featuring seasonal gift selections, festive cakes, and holiday hampers. Inspired by the charm of European Christmas markets, it offers guests a wonderful opportunity to discover holiday treats and gifts right in the heart of Entertainment City.
For those looking forward to festive dining, Café by Westside presents special seasonal celebrations, including Christmas Eve at the Village and A Golden New Year's Eve Feast. Guests can also enjoy its festive dining selections, World of Flavours, Grill & Rhythm, and Sip ’n Splash, with a special 3+1 dining offer.
The excitement continues into the New Year with A Golden Midnight, the hotel's New Year's Eve countdown celebration happening at the 5th Floor Open Deck. Guests who want to make their holiday celebration even more memorable can also explore the hotel's special stay packages, perfect for families and friends looking to spend quality time together.
With its combination of European-inspired Christmas experiences, festive culinary offerings, and Filipino hospitality, Grand Westside Manila Bay creates more reasons to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
About Grand Westside Manila Bay
Located in Westside City, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Grand Westside Manila Bay is a 1,528-room hotel under Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and the largest hotel in the Philippines by room count. The hotel offers contemporary accommodation, dining experiences, leisure facilities and versatile event spaces, complemented by warm Filipino hospitality.
For reservations and enquiries, visit www.grandwestsidemanila.com.
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