You know it’s Christmas when... {UP celebration}

You know it’s Christmas when...

          Another sign of Christmas for me is when the University of the Philippines (Diliman) or U.P. celebrates the Christmas season with various activities.

          The first activity, or the opening ceremony of all the events for the Christmas season, is the Pagilaw [ pagilaw means “to light” in Filipino]. During the Pagilaw, lights from different college buildings are lighted to signify that it is the start of the Christmas celebration in U.P. The next activity is the Karol Fest. This activity is an amateur choir singing contest among student choruses, wherein they sing various Christmas carols. The finals of this contest will be held at the Asian Center GT Toyota Hall of Wisdom in U.P. at December 13, 2010, 4 pm. Everyone is welcome to this event. Simultaneous to this event is the Pagandahan ng Belen contest. It is about making the best manger scene or the belen out of recycled materials. The winners of this contest will be announced on the day of the most anticipated Christmas event in U.P. … the Lantern Parade!

          The Lantern Parade is the main attraction/activity that culminates the celebration of the Christmas Season. Each college and some organizations have a theme and they show their theme through lanterns, floats, and other things that light. I love watching and being part of the parade because of the beautiful lanterns and floats. This is open to everyone! [This makes it even more fun]

          Here are some reminders and tips on the Lantern Parade. The parade starts at 4 p.m. of December 17 at the Academic Oval (Acad Oval). Be sure to go early because the Acad Oval would be swelling with people at around 5 pm. As they say the early bird catches the early worm [such a cliché], if you come early you are not only guaranteed with a good view but you also get to park your car easier.  Bring your cameras, but make sure you keep it safe and near you at all times. Same goes to children because the place will be field with people it is best to hold on to children. Bring some snacks and water because the parade can go on till 8 or 9 in the evening. If you forget your snack or water do not fear! There will be food kiosk or food vendors around. After the parade… stay for some fireworks. Don’t forget to enjoy and have fun! J

-DOT-
P.S. I will be updating you guys on the happenings regarding the UP Christmas Celebration :D

reference: http://www.upd.edu.ph/~updinfo/index144.html
photo source: http://www.coolwindsresidences.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/lantern-parade.jpg