Festive tree lighting at NH Collection Colombo: Illuminating the season with style, spirit and hope

By Sanath Weerasuriya

NH Collection Colombo ushered in the festive season with its traditional elegant ‘Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony’ last week, bringing warmth and seasonal charm to the heart of the city. This year’s celebration embraced a meaningful new approach, reflecting not only the joy of the season but also a message of confidence, resilience and renewed positivity for Sri Lanka.

The hotel lobby transformed into a festive gathering space as guests, team members and well-wishers came together to witness the first illumination of the Christmas tree. Adorned in classic Christmas colours, the tree stood as the centrepiece of the evening, symbolising joy, togetherness and the enduring spirit of Christmas.

‘By lighting our tree here at NH Collection Colombo, we are sending a message to the world that Sri Lanka remains a warm, welcoming and safe destination to travel’ said Yann Decaix, General Manager of NH Collection Colombo.

In his welcoming address, General Manager Yann Decaix emphasised Sri Lanka’s renowned hospitality, its resilience, and the renewed sense of positivity returning to the country. ‘Our land of paradise is once again inviting tourists back with warmth and confidence, and our hotels continue to operate with the same passion, hospitality and spirit we are known for. Soft carols sung by our team members enhanced the atmosphere as the lights came to life, creating a moment filled with festive cheer and an extraordinary sense of seasonal magic’ he stated.

Guests were welcomed with a selection of festive delights, including cocktails, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and an array of hot and cold canapés complemented by mini mince pies. A graceful solo music performance added to the charm of the evening, building anticipation for the ceremonial lighting. Once illuminated, the celebration continued as guests enjoyed the warm, festive atmosphere.

Contestants from the NovaCosmo Worldwide Pageants were the main attraction at the hotel’s traditional ‘Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony’. NovaCosmo Worldwide Pageants, a Canadian-incorporated international pageantry organisation, partners with more than 25 countries across the globe. This year, Sri Lanka is hosting this prestigious event, with contestants set to showcase the nation’s tourism, culture and heritage to international audiences.

 ‘At NH Collection Colombo, we have curated a bundle of offerings for the festive season, designed to bring people together and create uplifting moments throughout December. This tree-lighting ceremony marks the beginning of a series of celebrations that reflect our commitment to extraordinary and memorable hospitality in the heart of the city’ added GM Yann Decaix.

To complement the ceremony, NH Collection Colombo has unveiled a thoughtfully curated festive programme throughout December. Guests can look forward to a range of seasonal experiences, including the Christmas Eve Buffet at AYU, joyful Christmas Day celebrations, a flavourful Thai-inspired Christmas Night feast at ‘Thai Rasa’ and multiple New Year’s Eve events such as the grand Masquerade Gala Dinner in the Ballroom, the vibrant Rooftop NYE celebration at Vistas, and a family-friendly Kids’ NYE Programme at ‘Adityaa’.

NH Collection Hotels & Resorts is a premium hospitality brand with over 100 properties across Europe and the Americas and a growing global footprint in Asia, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean. Offering worldly travellers stays that evoke extraordinary feelings, NH Collection perfectly combines comfort, innovation, intuitive service, an elegant atmosphere, and surprising flavours, all embedded in the local identity.

NH Collection Hotels & Resorts is a Minor Hotels brand and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY.