By Xander Ledesma
Cebu City’s Tree of Hope will once again mark the beginning of the holiday season with its annual lighting ceremony on December 1, 2024, at Fuente Osmeña Circle. This 10-story tree, a hallmark of Cebu’s Christmas traditions, has been a symbol of unity and hope for the city for the past 24 years.
The Tree of Hope, which has become a key feature of the Christmas festivities in Cebu, is adorned with thousands of lights each year, drawing crowds from across the city and beyond. The lighting ceremony officially kicks off the holiday season in Cebu, a time marked by family gatherings, cultural events, and community celebrations.
The Tree of Hope was first introduced in 1999 as part of an initiative to bring the people of Cebu together during the Christmas season. It has since grown into a major event, not just for Cebuanos but for visitors from other parts of the Philippines and abroad. Over the years, the tree has become a symbol of Cebu’s resilience, particularly during difficult times, such as after Typhoon Odette in 2021, which caused widespread damage in the region.
The tree’s 10-story structure is a focal point for thousands of people who gather at Fuente Osmeña Circle every year for the lighting ceremony. The event is also marked by cultural performances, music, and community activities.
For many Cebuanos, the lighting of the Tree of Hope is more than just a visual display. It serves as a reminder of the city’s collective strength and hope in the face of challenges. The tree has become a symbol of optimism, particularly in difficult times, providing the people of Cebu with a sense of unity and purpose.
The 2024 illumination ceremony will continue to follow the tradition of previous years, with performances by local choirs, bands, and cultural groups. The event is expected to draw large crowds, both from the local community and from tourists, who come to witness the official start of Cebu’s Christmas celebrations.
The lighting of the Tree of Hope is more than just a decoration—it’s a community event that encapsulates the spirit of the season and the resilience of the Cebuano people. As Cebu continues to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges, the tree lighting is seen as a renewal of hope and a celebration of the strength that has helped the city rebuild and move forward.
The lighting ceremony on December 1 marks the beginning of the holiday season in Cebu, a time for both locals and visitors to come together and celebrate the city’s enduring spirit of unity.