CEBU, Philippines — It is perhaps odd to think of spending time in Baguio during the Christmas season. December just ushers in cold days everywhere in the country. And Baguio being known as the summer capital of the Philippines for its cold climate may seem like not an ideal destination.
But those planning on a Christmas trip may not have to pass off Baguio completely. While it may not be the cold weather that draws visitors to Baguio at this is time of the year, the City of Pines actually has other attractions. The biting cold up there can probably be assuaged with a thick coat and a hot drink.
Zyla Macayan’s article at www.outoftownblog.com lists other attractions Baguio City has at Christmas. Colorful neon lights, carolers crooning around, decorations that give the merry character to the season are just for starters. The festive vibe is everywhere, and Baguio City has lots of things for visitors to discover and enjoy.
Macayan mentions a few of the things that make Baguio sizzle at Christmastime:
Lantern Parade
The Panagbenga is not the only festival that Baguio is famous for – there’s also the city’s Lantern Parade that is annually held on the first day of December. Tourists – both foreign and local – would also not want to miss the ceremonial lighting of the city’s giant Christmas tree.
The parade is the launch of the city’s full calendar of events for the whole month. It is spearheaded by Saint Louis University, the biggest school in Baguio City. Students, as well as faculties, showcase their own hand-crafted lanterns, creating quite a spectacle of lights, colors, and music. Since its inception in 2012, the event has gotten bigger and more extravagant, to the great delight of the crowds.
Christmas Villages
There’s several to visit:
Baguio Country Club Christmas Village
The Christmas here usually has a theme, either a “White Christmas,” or one inspired by the movie “Frozen” etc. It may be set up from mostly recycled materials; about 80 percent, with only the paint and snow machine solution aren’t recycled. It is also a display of the creative ideas of the Club’s employees.
A little entrance fee is charged visitors, to help defray the cost of the project. But it’s worth it, especially on weekends where there’s a program for everyone’s entertainment. The Village usually stays until the first week of January.
The Manor Christmas Village
Here, the Christmas Village also takes on a special theme.( One time it was carnival.) And there are a lot of activities, game booths and live entertainments to fill visitors’ time. To get there is easy, since there are shuttle services that takes passengers to and from The Manor and SM Baguio. Visitors that participate at the fun activities at the Manor may win prizes.
Burnham Park Christmas Village
The city’s Rose Garden has already undergone rehabilitation. It is undoubtedly one attraction that those that come to Baguio for the Christmas season would not want to miss to visit. The Christmas Village set up here is free for the general public to enjoy. Especially with loved ones’ company, it is a nice place for taking “selfies” or “groupies.”
Night Market
Night life in Baguio City is very lively especially at this season. The parks are well lighted and mall hours are extended. From 9 p.m. onwards, people may also visit the night market on Harrison Road, which has since become a landmark in the city for its famous “ukay-ukay” stalls. Various products are in abundance – from previously owned items (or “ukay”), to souvenirs, budget-friendly food items etc.
These attractions are not all there is to enjoy in Baguio, for sure. But to discover more, one would first have to go there. The city offers many things to warm visitors and make them forget the cold of the season. (FREEMAN)