Richard, Sarah & Zion at Marriott’s Christmas tree lighting

MANILA, Philippines - The holiday season has officially started at Marriott Hotel Manila following its Christmas tree lighting led by Richard Gutierrez and Sarah Lahbati with their Baby Zion.

As soon as the lights began to sparkle, a burst of harmonious angelic voices echoed through the lobby courtesy of Himig Roseña, the choral ambassador of Colegio de Santa Rosa-Makati. Followed by a grand entrance of Santa Claus, where kids excitedly lined up to whisper their Christmas wish.

Part of the gleaming decor is the life-size gingerbread train parked at the center of the lobby, filled with Christmas treats such as Chocolate St. Nicholas (P300), Big Belly Chocolate Santa (P310), Chocolate Santa in Sleigh (P340), Chocolate Angel (P320), Gingerbread Cookie Man (P120), Gingerbread Sweet Nutcracker (P300), Marriott Gingerbread House (P600), White Chocolate Disc with Dried Fruits and Nuts (P380), Milk Chocolate Disc with Dried Fruits and Nuts (P380), Chocolate Coated Pretzel Sticks (P500), German Coconut Macaroons (P500), Almond Sliver Christmas Tree (P480), Traditional Dark Fruit Cake (P550), Lemon and Pistachio Christmas Cake (P650), Dresden Stollen Bread with Marzipan (P530) and Holiday Cookie Box (P610).

Marriott also launched the One Hour Drive Spirit to Serve activity where guests can sign up for 60-minute classes, including Zumba (P200 registration fee), DIYís and crafts (P300) and kids baking lessons (P500 inclusive of apron and certificates).

Marriott Manilaís Christmas tree and gingerbread train are on display until Dec. 26. For details, call 988-9999 or like Facebook.com/marriothotelmanila or follow @marriottmanila on Twitter and @manilamarriott on Instagram.