Taal Vista Hotel celebrated the start of the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 23, 2024. This year’s event, themed “Timeless Christmas,” was particularly special as it also marked the hotel’s 85th anniversary. The ceremony combined the spirit of Christmas with a celebration of the hotel’s long-standing legacy and contributions to the community.
General Manager Ramon Makilan shared a heartfelt message during the event. He expressed, “On our 85th anniversary, we are grateful to have been part of your lives, big or small, and we are thankful to each and every one of you for always making us your home.” His words underscored the hotel’s deep connection with guests, both past and present, and its commitment to being a home away from home.
The ceremony was led by a group of distinguished individuals, including Ms. Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Ms. Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, and Mr. Ramon Makilan. The celebration included a ceremonial gift-giving activity for the children of the Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus and Mary, who were the beneficiaries of the event. This thoughtful gesture highlighted the hotel’s commitment to giving back to the community as part of the anniversary celebrations.
A Legacy Celebrated Through History and Culinary Art
Before the Christmas tree lighting, Taal Vista Hotel relaunched its A Walk Through Time exhibit, a key component of the anniversary celebrations. This exhibit, which was first introduced in 2022, provides guests with an educational experience that showcases the hotel’s rich history, along with the history of Tagaytay and the Taal Volcano. The exhibit’s immersive approach offers a deeper appreciation of the hotel’s place in the region’s development over the past 85 years. The short program and guided tour allowed visitors to learn about the hotel’s founding and the cultural milestones of the area, enhancing the overall experience of the event.
A standout feature of the evening was the six-course wine pairing dinner, which was a highlight of the anniversary celebration. The dinner was carefully crafted by a team of talented chefs, including Chef Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability of SM Hotels & Conventions Corp., Executive Chef Jayme Natividad, and renowned chocolatier and pastry chef Chef Ely Salar. Ms. Treena Tecson, who contributed to the event’s culinary concept, helped shape a menu that paid tribute to milestones in Filipino history.
The menu included a variety of exceptional dishes, each paired with Italian wines from Wine Hub. The courses featured:
- Homemade Chocolate Ravioli
- Paella Marisco Soccarat
- Kitayama Striploin with Trio of Tagaytay Mushrooms
- Chocolate Eruption, made with 60% Aton cacao dark chocolate
These dishes were designed to highlight the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, while the wine pairings enhanced the overall dining experience. The attention to detail in the preparation of each dish was a testament to the culinary team’s dedication to excellence.
Timeless Entertainment and Elegant Atmosphere
Following the dinner, guests were treated to a musical showcase titled “As Time Goes By,” which featured timeless classics from the 1930s—the decade when Taal Vista Hotel first opened as Taal Vista Lodge. The performances brought nostalgia to the event, with renditions of popular songs from that era. The musical numbers were performed by notable artists, including television and musical theater singer and actress Kayla Rivera, television, film, and musical theater actor and singer Vien King, saxophonist Josh Espinosa, and young pianist Kim Dominik Sarmiento.
The grand ballroom was transformed into a beautifully decorated venue, with Christmas lights and fresh flower centerpieces designed by Julius Villamante of Amante Fleurs. The event’s ambiance was further enhanced by the professional lighting and sound design provided by Artuz, ensuring that every aspect of the evening was sophisticated and memorable.
Looking Ahead to the Holidays
The Christmas tree lighting and 85th anniversary celebration were a truly memorable occasion for Taal Vista Hotel. It not only marked a significant milestone for the hotel but also provided an opportunity for the community to come together in the spirit of the holiday season. With more exciting offers throughout the holidays, Taal Vista Hotel continues to welcome guests to experience its timeless elegance and hospitality. Whether attending future events or simply enjoying the festive season at the hotel, guests can expect to be immersed in the warmth and charm that has made Taal Vista Hotel a beloved destination for over 85 years.
