By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga
AS THE PANDEMIC finally winds down and people return to their normal routines, I’ve recently noticed that this year’s celebration of the holidays in Negros Occidental has a different vibe compared to previous years.
Lately, I’ve seen some private individuals and even the province’s local government units (LGU) going all out with their holiday gimmicks.
One particular LGU that really peaked by interest is the town of Hinigaran – the pyrotechnics capital of Negros Occidental and now also dubbed as the province’s Christmas capital in the south.
Hinigaran opened their “Winter Wonderland”-themed Christmas display on Dec. 1, an event that surely garnered thousands of spectators.
Hinigaran vice mayor Grace Arceo particularly stated that they want to bring back the smiles and joy of the town’s residents.
Their Christmas display aims to revive the town’s tourism following two years of restrictions brought by the coronavirus pandemic.
In Victorias City, thousands of people witnessed the switching on of the ceremonial Christmas tree on Nov. 15 – the first in the province to do so this year.
Mayor Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez said they used 106,800 light bulbs to light up their Christmas tree, belen, and other decorations which are located in the city’s public plaza.
He pointed out their grand lighting ceremony was made in order to make up for the lost two years, wherein the city had to tone down their celebrations brought by the pandemic.
In Bacolod City, despite the evening downpours on Dec. 4, thousands also showed up to witness the lighting ceremony at the Bacolod City Public Plaza.
Dubbed “Christmas Festival of Lights”, the endeavor was made possible through cooperation between the city government of Bacolod, STI-West Negros University, and the City Christmas Village.
Aside from the Bacolod City Public Plaza, another well-known place in the city to enjoy the Christmas holidays is in front of the Stonehill Suites.
The Christmas Village is a yearly event held by businessman Jerry Sy.
This year’s theme is Yo-yo land and features Disney characters, as well as the traditional belen.
The Christmas Village is also a perfect spot for families, especially the kids who will definitely enjoy the holiday vibes./PN
