First, to introduce an outdoor giant tree light ceremony way back in 1981, the Araneta City takes pride in this annual tradition that attracts people from all walks of life, from different parts of the country.

The iconic Araneta City giant tree will light up on November 8 at the Times Square Food Park. Now on its 38th year, it is still one of the most anticipated events in the City of Firsts. The centerpiece of the festivities will be adorned with 50 pieces of 9-foot pipe garlands: diamond ornaments some as large as 30 inches; 250 cascading lights; sputnik and strobe lights; and over 1,500 Christmas balls in silver and gold, as well as teal in line with the new colors of the recently rebranded Araneta City.

More than the glitz and fun of the tree lighting, this event underlines the Araneta Group's commitment to giving back and helping those in need. The Araneta Group, in partnership with the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, will be pledging its support to UNICEF's Alternative Learning System for out of school youth in the Philippines through a recommitment signing, UNICEF Education officer Ms. Giti Mohn will be present.

It is only fitting, then, that Araneta City's annual giant Christmas tree lighting will be headline by UNICEF National Goodwill Ambassador Anne Curtis. She's become quite the familiar face Around City as she's had her first major solo concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with several successful follow-ups, and even hosted the country's first and most prestigious national pageant, the Binibining Pilipinas.

Aside from the giant Christmas tree, the Times Square Food Park will also serve as the home of the Christmas Animated Display, which will have its own festive and ceremonial launch on November 13. With fun rides and a plethora of dining options, the Times Square Food Park is one of the must-visit destinations in Araneta City.