Written by: Isabel Villavert
If there’s a holiday that would best define us Filipinos, it would definitely be Christmas. As the festive air begins the moment we enter the “ber” months and we start hearing our favorite Christmas tunes on the airwaves, it also marks the beginning of months-long series of catching up with barkadas, reuniting with family, and just about every occasion to go out, dine, and shop.
As this is also the most wonderful time to create and share memories, it is only right that it should be set in the most enchanting of spaces. Filinvest City, with its deepest understanding of Filipinos’ love for the holidays, carries on its tradition of weaving together all the elements of that perfect Christmas into one space for the community.
Central Park at Filinvest City becomes the ideal holiday destination, being an accessible outdoor escape. While still at the heart of the city, Central Park is setting itself up to be the best gift for the community this season, providing inspiring and soothing views of nature over a skyburst of a colorful sunset, fresh air from open spaces, and a mix of exciting events that would make it the most joyous place to be this season.
A sight to behold
As the jewel of all greens of Filinvest City, Central Park is transforming its sprawling one hectare expanse into a whimsical Christmas Garden. They’re taking the word “shine” seriously, as the park will be filled with enchanting life-sized decorations in a kaleidoscope of colors.
These stunning displays are strategically set to further highlight the sweeping green scenery across the park. Families can enjoy the festive spirit as they immerse in the lights and decorations intertwined and embraced by nature.
Central Park’s centerpiece is its grand, 42-foot tall Christmas Tree, which was lit up on Nov. 17. At this tree lighting at the Central Park, Filinvest City’s building decoration contest winners were also awarded, capped off with an awe-inspiring fireworks display.
The night sky will continue to sparkle with fireworks on December 1, 15, and 22, as part of Filinvest City’s regular weekly festivities.
Let music fill the air
It’s not Christmas without good music, so Filinvest City has also prepared a lineup of some of the best local acts to serenade Cityzens on special evenings.
Electropop rock band Gracenote took the stage on Nov. 17, which will be followed by groovy multi-genre trio Of Mercury on Dec. 1. Cityzens can vibe to the tunes of indie-alternative rock band Autotelic on Dec. 15, and the psychedelic rock vocals of Unique Salonga on Dec. 22.
Dining destination
Food is always at the center of every celebration, and Christmas at Filinvest City proves just that. Family and friends can relish the beautiful sights across Central Park while enjoying a variety of food options at Eats by the Park Food Bazaar.
Every Friday to Sunday from 4 p.m., food stalls will be offering the best delights to take you on a gastronomic journey.
Upholding Christmas traditions
One more thing to make the Filipino celebration of Christmas complete is attending Simbang Gabi. Filinvest City holds this tradition dearly, too. This season, the Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel is set to become not just a sanctuary for serene reflection, it will also be a place where Cityzens can celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, in worship with the community.
To make coming together a bond and celebrate with loved ones even more special, it’s essential to have a space that is welcoming and comforting for all senses. First Vice President for Townships Don Ubaldo shares that this is the purpose of creating Central Park. By crafting the ideal outdoor space—one that is rich in greenery, and now also filled with delightful decorations and meaningful activities—the community can enjoy the festivities of the season by coming together at the park while still basking in the vibrance of the city. Notably, Central Park is an integral part of Filinvest City’s interconnected park system that links all of the city’s open spaces. This master-planned park network not only enhances the overall green landscape of the city but also makes it easier for people to move around comfortably. It makes the city a walkable haven where everyone can have a vibrant experience as nature harmoniously coexists with the life of a business district.
The brilliant lights and decorations within Filinvest City’s open spaces serve not only as a feast for the eyes, but also as a symbol of Filinvest City’s commitment to creating a brighter future together with the community.
With something striking for each sense and sensibility, Christmas here at Filinvest City is sure to be a core memory we’ll keep close to our hearts. One that we’ll continue to look back on—and look forward to repeating—for many more holidays to come.
ADVT.