Araneta City upholds the magic of Christmas with traditional Belen lighting
A week after the successful lighting of its iconic 100-ft Christmas tree, Araneta City keeps its celebration more solemn with the lighting of its giant Belen on Thursday, November 18, 2021.
Located at Gen. MacArthur Avenue, the City of Firsts unveiled its traditional Belen, which depicts the nativity of Jesus Christ with Mary, Joseph, and the three kings. It is a tradition observed by the City of Firsts since Christmas of 1991.
Rev. Father Ronnie Santos, parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Brgy. Socorro and Father Diogo D’Souza led the Holy Mass and blessing of the Belen. It was followed by a peaceful offering of prayers led by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Brgy. Socorro Chairman Doc Ted Santos, and officials of the Araneta Group.
From left to right: Araneta Group Chief of Staff Noel Leonor; Araneta Group VP for Leasing Lorna Fabian; Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte; Brgy. Socorro Chairman Doc Ted Santos; Araneta Group SVP for Operations Antonio Mardo
During the solemnity of the Belen lighting, stringent social distancing measures and health protocols were enforced to secure the safety of the attendees.
This traditional Belen lighting kicks off a number of special Christmas events and activities in Araneta City under the theme "Believe in the Magic of Christmas". Just across the Belen display is the Parolan Christmas bazaar where one can find quality and affordable Christmas decors. It is open until December 31 from 4 am to 9 pm.
Other City of Firsts holiday offers to watch out for are: the Christmas Serenade in Araneta City malls at 3pm every Friday starting November 26; the Grand Fireworks Display at 7pm every Saturday starting November 27; and the Meet Santa in Araneta City malls at 7pm every Sunday starting November 28.