Araneta City lives up to its Yuletide tradition with this year’s lighting of the annual giant Belen display on November 17.
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 Mayor Joy Belmonte, and other officials of Quezon City LGU and Brgy. Socorro, and Araneta City executives and personnel. The blessing was made solemn by the ensemble performance of the Rizal Technological University Grand Alumni Association Inc. Singers.
The lighting of Belen is part of the many Christmas events and activities in Araneta City this year under the theme “City of Firsts, Your Home This Christmas”. It follows other exciting Araneta City festivities such as the star-studded lighting of the iconic Giant Christmas tree on November 10, and the very first tree lighting event at the New Gateway Mall 2 on November 14.
Other traditional Christmas attractions at the City of Firsts include the Parolan bazaar, where one can find quality and affordable Christmas decorations; the Times Square Park for a cool al fresco dining with an up-close view of the Giant Christmas tree; the spectacular Grand Fireworks Display every Fridays to Sundays at 7 PM; and the Santa Claus and friends meet-and-greet and parade at Araneta City malls every weekend.