Grand Westside Manila Bay Welcomes Christmas with European Charm and a Filipino Heart

An evening of music, cherished traditions and heartfelt giving brings the spirit of Christmas to Entertainment City.

Christmas has a special way of bringing people together. Whether through familiar carols, shared meals or the simple joy of giving, the season is filled with moments that remind us of the people who matter most.

This was the spirit behind Grand Westside Manila Bay’s Christmas Tree Lighting celebration on 12 November, as the hotel welcomed distinguished guests, business partners, members of the media and friends for an evening inspired by “A European Christmas Village, Celebrated with a Filipino Heart.”

The celebration 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, alongside executives from Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, representatives from the tourism and hospitality industry, corporate partners and valued hotel guests.

Mayor Olivarez addressed the gathering, marking a special moment for Grand Westside Manila Bay and its home city of Parañaque. With 1,528 rooms, the hotel is recognised as the largest hotel in the Philippines by room count, adding to Entertainment City’s growing hospitality landscape.

The hotel’s festive transformation brought together the charm of a European Christmas village and familiar Filipino traditions. Twinkling lights, gingerbread houses, festive greenery and European-inspired market stalls were complemented by traditional Filipino parols, while the gentle melodies of a live harpist welcomed guests to the celebration.

In his welcome remarks, Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay, shared the inspiration behind this year’s celebration, bringing together the charm of European Christmas traditions and the warmth of Filipino hospitality.

“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,” said Fijardo.

The evening’s highlight came as the hotel’s executives and distinguished guests gathered for the ceremonial toast and Christmas Tree Lighting. As the tree lit up, its warm glow marked the beginning of a season of celebrations and shared moments.

Adding a particularly meaningful touch was a performance by Minstrels Rhythm of Hope – Little Singers, whose Christmas carols filled the celebration with the joy and warmth of the season.

Among the special guests were Yna Angela Uy, Ms. Chinatown Global Philippines 2026, and Jyron Ngo, Mr. Chinatown Global 1st Runner-Up, who joined the festivities and shared in the evening’s Christmas cheer.

A Village of Giving

Beyond the festive lights and celebrations, Grand Westside Manila Bay also launched A Village of Giving, its Christmas community initiative supporting the children of Minstrels Rhythm of Hope – Little Singers.

Guided by the message “Little Gifts. Big Smiles.”, the initiative reflects the Filipino tradition of sharing blessings, particularly with children and families during Christmas.

Minstrels Rhythm of Hope provides children from disadvantaged communities with opportunities to develop their musical talents, build confidence and pursue their education. Having the children share their music during the Tree Lighting made the initiative especially meaningful, connecting guests with the young voices behind the cause.

From 12 November to 21 December 2026, guests, visitors and hotel associates are welcome to share gifts and contributions through a dedicated donation house beside the Christmas tree in the hotel lobby. The contributions will be shared with the children in time for Christmas.

A Season of Festive Flavours and Traditions

The Christmas Tree Lighting also marked the beginning of Grand Westside Manila Bay’s festive celebrations. Guests can explore the Christmas Village Market, featuring seasonal gifts, festive cakes and holiday hampers, bringing a touch of European Christmas charm to the heart of Entertainment City.

At Café by Westside, the celebrations continue with Christmas Eve at the Village and A Golden New Year’s Eve Feast, alongside festive favourites World of Flavours, Grill & Rhythm and Sip ’n Splash, with a special 3+1 dining offer. The year concludes with A Golden Midnight, a New Year’s Eve countdown celebration at the hotel’s 5th Floor Open Deck. Special holiday stay packages offer more ways for families and friends to celebrate together.

With European Christmas charm and the warmth of Filipino hospitality, Grand Westside Manila Bay welcomes guests to a season of joy, togetherness and shared traditions.