The holiday season is here, and Compostela, Cebu, is shining brighter than ever.
Just today, I decided to visit the town center to experience the magic of the season. It was on the first of December that the town’s lights were officially turned on, and I felt like it was the perfect way to kickstart the holidays. The moment I started walking around, I could feel it in the air: Christmas. Lights across from trees, streets, even buildings, and everything around. The whole city seemed something from a Christmas movie. The best part was around Balay Lungsod sa Compostela because it was super amazingly colorful; there were big star-shaped lights with glowing flowers that made the whole place a Christmas dream.
I kept walking and came across a fair full of rides and games. What was the first thing I saw? The Ferris wheel, of course! It was totally lit up in neon light, with each cabin different from the others in color. I saw a number of families and friends riding it and appreciating the view from up above the town. Truth be told, I just had to stop and snap some pics because this Ferris wheel was simply glowing.
Next to it was the Boomerang ride, which was always a blast. You know, the one that does all those back-and-forth swings, making you feel as if you were flying? Just so much fun with people screaming and laughing. I actually had to stop and watch for a bit because the energy was contagious! Then there was this one ride called the Vikings, which just swung in this huge arc. You could hear screams of laughter a mile away. It looked so much fun!
If you weren't in the mood for crazy rides, there was also a carousel. It is just that calm, gentle type of ride where you just go around in those cute horses. I saw a few families on it, taking in the chill vibes, and that made me smile.
But the thing is that the weather was not exactly perfect during that time. The day I was there, it was raining, and that means it was not all that populated, and generally quite a bit quieter than normal. However, truth be told, that just seemed to make the whole thing just a bit more peaceful. If you go when the weather is good, well, believe me, this place is busy! A lot of people are sitting around, having fun on rides, and having a good time. Of course, when the sun is out, it gets a lot livelier.
But even with the rain, the best part of my walk had to be the street food. Seriously, every corner seemed to have food stalls, and just the smell alone made my tummy growl. I had grilled chicken skewers, fish balls, and isaw-that's grilled chicken intestines for the not so squeamish, which was quite good, mind you-and all of them were very affordable.
This Japanese snack that I tried was so good-takoyaki is with little pieces of octopus inside, and sauce is covering it. Despite the rain, every food stall was just full, people just enjoying the night. The vibe was just super chill and fun, you could feel Christmas here. Everybody was just around chilling, talking, enjoying food; that's what it made extra special.
The night stroll around Compostela really made me realize how simple things make this season magic: lights, rides, and food combined into just one amazing Christmas. It is not only all about the presents and grand parties, but with people, the community, a common cheer we shared all along with the season.
If you ever find yourself in Compostela, Cebu, during Christmas time, do take a walk around. The lights brighten up your night, the rides give you all the thrills, and the food will make your taste buds dance. It was such a memorable experience, and I know you'll love it, too!