A Thousand Stars, A Thousand Lights

Christmas is just a month away! Indeed, time flies so fast. I am getting more and more excited although I have not yet started with gifts shopping (I still have time, right?). I look forward to the Noche Buena, the family reunions and friends get-together parties. I'm sure you are as thrilled as I am!

Speaking of that Christmas spirit, I have been hearing about this 'Christmas in Ayala' and so last night I got the chance to visit the newly-developed Ayala Triangle Gardens near Makati Stock Exchange. It is a popular "green spot" for joggers and for those who simply want to take some time off and have a great walk after an exhausting day at work. Ayala Land included restaurants which are a sure hit to professionals working around the vicinity and for residents of nearby condominiums. (I will make  a separate post about the Restaurants at The Ayala Triangle Gardens.)

If you are along Ayala Avenue this Nativity scene will greet you before you arrive at the Ayala Triangle. It is life-sized and really eye-catching. The Nativity is one of the most popular symbols and displays during the Holiday seasons. During the previous years, buildings along Ayala Avenue put up their respective versions of the Nativity. I remember walking my way home to Makati Avenue (then) just to see them and the sights would complete my day.

 This is the 'Symphony of Parols', a lights and sounds show every 30 minutes from November 17 to December 23 (6pm to 8pm). This spot is like an enchanted forest with glowing lights and stars. Very captivating! It can take away your stress even for a night only.

Lights director Voltaire de Jesus is behind this masterpiece. His inspirations are the movies 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Avatar'. He used 100-percent eco-friendly LED lights which consume 78 percent less energy than regular ones. From 58,000 watts used last year, power consumption now drops to 5,000 watts with the LED upgrade.

Sound director Jetro Joaquin created an instrumental medley of Christmas classics ('Sleigh Ride', 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town') and contemporary hits (José Mari Chan’s 'Christmas in Our Hearts').  

Would you believe that the planning for this took six months? Yes, six months! Well, you can see the result of the creative ideas and dedicated efforts of the organizers in this very delightful and spectacular display. If you have time, visit Ayala Triangle Gardens and enjoy the sight!