Cebu lights up every December with dazzling displays, festive events, and holiday cheer. From towering trees in Cebu City to glowing plazas in nearby towns, locals and visitors can enjoy the magic of Pasko across the province. Whether for family outings, romantic strolls, or Instagram-worthy photos, Cebu’s Christmas lights promise a season of hope, joy, and togetherness.
1. Fuente Osmeña: The Tree of Hope
Cebu City welcomed the season with the 120-foot M. Lhuillier “Tree of Hope,” celebrating 25 years of tradition. The tree symbolizes Cebuano faith, generosity, and resilience, surrounded by street decorations and festive performances around Fuente Osmeña Circle.
How To Get There?
Location: Fuente Osmeña Circle, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Car: From Cebu City downtown, drive along Osmeña Boulevard toward Fuente Osmeña Circle. Parking is available along the side streets and nearby commercial areas.
- By Commute: Take any jeepney or bus heading to Fuente Osmeña or Colon Street. Alight at Fuente Osmeña Circle and walk toward the center of the circle.
2. Mall Wonderland: SM City Cebu, SM Seaside, and Ayala Center Cebu
Cebu’s top malls transform into holiday wonderlands with giant Christmas trees, themed installations, and festive lights. Seasonal shows, treats, and shopping make these malls perfect for families, friends, and couples.
How To Get There?
Location: Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- SM City Cebu: Drive or Navigate via Waze or GoogleMap SM City Cebu; parking is available at the mall. From downtown, take a jeepney bound for SM City Cebu or a taxi.
- SM Seaside City Cebu: Drive via the South Road Properties (SRP). Commuters can take vans or buses from Fuente Osmeña Circle or Cebu City downtown, dropping off at the mall entrance.
- Ayala Center Cebu: Drive via Osmeña Boulevard or Juan Luna Avenue; parking is available inside the mall. Jeepneys bound for Ayala or taxis are convenient alternatives.
3. City of Naga: Kahayag sa Paglaum
The City of Naga celebrated its annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony for over 20 years. The 2025 theme, “Kahayag sa Paglaum” (Light of Hope), featured a Cebuano-inspired Christmas tree, light tunnel, cultural performances, and fireworks at Naga Baywalk and the city plaza.
How To Get There?
Location: City of Naga, Cebu, Philippines
- By Car: From Cebu City, drive south along the Cebu South Coastal Road. Take the Naga City exit, then follow signs to Naga Baywalk or the City Plaza. Ample street parking is available nearby.
- By Commute: Take a Ceres bus or van bound for Naga from the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Ask the driver to drop you at Naga City Plaza or Baywalk; it’s a short walk to the light displays.
4. Bogo City: Light and Renewal
Bogo City lit its Christmas tree at the Public Plaza on December 7, coinciding with the reopening of the Kids Playground. Mayor Mayel Martinez emphasized that this year’s celebration offers hope as the city recovers from the 6.9 magnitude earthquake.
How To Get There?
Location: City Hall Aisle, Bogo City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Car: Drive north along Cebu North Road (N. Bacalso Ave). Turn toward Bogo City proper at the Bogo exit and follow signs to the Public Plaza. Street parking is available near the plaza.
- By Commute: From Cebu City, take a Ceres bus bound for Bogo City at the Cebu North Bus Terminal. Alight at the city proper and walk 3–5 minutes to the Public Plaza.
5. Mandaue City: Pasko sa Mandaue
Mandaue City Hall lit its Christmas tree and plaza on November 28, symbolizing hope and brighter days ahead. Despite recent typhoons, residents celebrated their community’s resilience, making the city hall area a perfect spot for family strolls and festive photos.
How To Get There?
Location: Mandaue City Hall and Plaza, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines
- By car: From Cebu City, take M.C. Briones Street or A.C. Cortes Avenue to Mandaue City Hall. Parking is available inside the city hall compound.
- By public transport: Take any jeepney or bus heading to Mandaue City Hall or the North Reclamation Area. Alight at City Hall and walk a few minutes to the plaza.
From Cebu City to Mandaue, Naga, and Bogo, Cebu’s Christmas lights illuminate more than streets, they light up hearts. These festive displays remind Cebuanos and visitors that the season is about hope, resilience, and community. Whether chasing bright lights, festive treats, or family memories, Cebu shines brightest at Christmas.
