A Magical Cirque Christmas at John Hay Hotels

“We love Christmas, it’s a special time for reflection and for bringing together family and loved ones to reconnect and share joy. Life can get overwhelming, and everyone is carrying something we may not see. But when you step into John Hay Hotels, let us welcome you, take care of you, and make you feel at home. Our hope is that the beautiful moments you create here become part of your fondest holiday memories, and that you experience the true magic of Christmas in the highlands.” ~Erickson Y. Manzano, Landco Pacific Corporation and Landco Lifestyle Ventures President and CEO 

A Magical Christmas at John Hay Hotels

Experience Wonder, Whimsy, and the Spirit of Renewal in the Christmas Capital of the Philippines

Everyone is invited to a party unlike any other this holiday season at A Magical Cirque Christmas, which will take place in the well-known alpine resort until January 15, 2026. This wonderful celebration has brought joy, magic, and fresh hope to Baguio City's beloved hills.

Baguio, formerly known as the Summer Capital, is now even more radiant as the Philippines' Christmas Capital, where sparkling lights, chilly, crisp air, and pine-scented winds provide the ideal atmosphere for treasured holiday memories. John Hay Hotels is ushering in a new era of warmth, community, and holiday magic under the revitalized leadership of Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV). This year's Grand Christmas Tree Lighting, which was recently held at the Garden Wing and Forest Wing, respectively, is a celebration of hope, renewal, and unity.

A Symbol of Hope and Renewal: The Grand Tree Lighting

Celebrities Kelly Misa, Alice Dixson and Maricar de Mesa graced the John Hay Hotels Christmas Tree Lighting

The season's high point is the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 21, which lights up the highlands with wonder and coziness. The illumination this year symbolizes John Hay Hotels' revived vision under LLV, a commitment to revitalizing historic buildings, enhancing local communities, and producing unforgettable experiences for future generations. It is more than just a dazzling show.

John Hay Hotels Holiday Wonderland

A Magical Christmas at John Hay Hotels

This year's festivities include the Garden Wing (formerly The Manor), the Forest Wing (formerly The Forest Lodge), and the John Hay Convention Center, the two iconic wings of John Hay Hotels that come together to create a magical holiday experience that blends festive fantasy, highland charm, and heartfelt customs.

At the Garden Wing: A Magical Cirque Christmas

At the Garden Wing, guests can fully immerse themselves in a wonderful vacation getaway with everything from captivating light shows and funny cirque acts to enchanted evenings that transform the highlands into a winter fantasy. 

Cozy bonfires foster warm chats, and carefully selected food vendors and outdoor movie evenings offer seasonal delicacies.   Carnival attractions provide a little enchantment and whimsy to every corner with daily circus booths, a classic merry-go-round, and themed acts. Whether you're with family, a special someone, or a group of friends, every moment spent at The Garden Wing feels like a scene from a Christmas story come to life.

At the Forest Wing, the Christmas Carnival Spectacle 

John Hay Hotels Forest Wing’s Christmas Tree Ceremony

Visitors are welcome to experience a world of quirky and happy celebration every day from 11 AM to 10 PM.   The holiday mood is brought to life by a vibrant program of activities, including seasonal harmonies and acoustic nights, happy encounters with Santa and his elves, and cherished traditions like Simbang Gabi, Misa de Gallo, and Misa de Año Nuevo. 

Visitors can also take part in the vibrant Countdown and feast at the New Year's Eve Dinner, enjoy the Christmas Eve Cocktail Party, explore the Christmas Day Carnival Market with thrilling giveaways, and greet the new year with the festive Parade of the Three Kings.

Inspired by the beloved Dap-ayan of the Cordillera, where tales are told and community thrives, the Dap-ayan Spirits is a unique festive beverage prepared with Sagada Gin, Tapuy, and a dash of Etag for that smoky, soulful mountain flavor.   It's a joyful toast to custom, comfort, and community rather than merely a drink.   Enjoy Dap-ayan Spirits exclusively at St. Patrick's Bar in the Forest Wing.

Holiday Market 

Christmas is brought to life by a vibrant holiday market that links the heart and soul of the Cordillera.  Local farmers, artists, and craftspeople showcase their rich history via woven fabrics, woodcarvings, hand-beaded jewelry, and farm-fresh delights.   Visitors can also discover the highlands' bounty, which includes delicious fruits, crisp vegetables, freshly picked strawberries, and handmade jams that are all purchased straight from neighboring farms. 

Landco Pacific Corporation and John Hay Hotels President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano rendered his inspiring holiday message at the John Hay Hotels Christmas Tree Lighting

John Hay Hotels General Manager Roberto Garcia welcomed guests for an unforgettable Christmas at the highlands.

This thoughtfully designed pop-up market turns the Garden and Forest Wing into a friendly marketplace where guests can explore, engage with the locals, and bring home a little bit of the Cordilleras.   Instead of just shopping, it's a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and seasonal foods.

A New Chapter Under LLV

Holiday melodies from the choir at John Hay Hotels Forest Wing’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

This festive season marks an important milestone as John Hay Hotels, under LLV’s new management, moves towards a unified brand identity with a renewed commitment to crafting premium, meaningful lifestyle experiences.

For John Hay Hotels inquiries and reservations: trunkline: (074) 637 4720; email: reservationsatmanor@campjohnhayhotels.com  or reservationsatforestlodge@campjohnhayhotels.com ; book via: https://www.johnhayhotels.com  or follow The John Hay Hotels on social media: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok