Araneta City ushers Christmas bliss with traditional Belen lighting
Araneta City lives up to its Yuletide tradition with this year's lighting of the annual giant Belen display on November 22.
Located at Gen. MacArthur Avenue, the City of Firsts unveiled its annual life-sized Belen, which depicts the nativity of Jesus Christ with Mary, Joseph, and the three kings. It is a holiday tradition observed by Araneta City since 1991.
Rev. Father Ronnie Santos, parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Quezon City, led the blessing of the Belen. It was followed by a ceremonial lighting led by Quezon City Councilors Wency Lagumbay and Chuckie Antonio, LGU officials from Brgy. Socorro, and Araneta City executives and personnel. The blessing was made solemn by the ensemble performance of the Octava Chorale Society.
The lighting of Belen is part of the many Christmas events and activities in Araneta City this year under the theme "A Christmas Bliss, Making New Memories". It follows exciting Araneta City festivities such as the star-studded lighting of the iconic Giant Christmas tree on November 14 which was reinstalled in its original location beside the Smart Araneta Coliseum, and a series of mall and office Christmas tree lighting.
Other traditional Christmas attractions at the City of Firsts include the Parolan bazaar where one can find quality and affordable Christmas decorations; the Fiesta Carnival which is open daily for a fun and exciting day with family and friens; the spectacular Grand Fireworks Display every Fridays to Sundays at 7 PM; the Santa Claus and friends meet-and-greet and mascot parade at Araneta City malls every weekend; and the ongoing “70 gifts for 70 years” digital promo for a chance to win amazing prizes from the City of Firsts