This takes place annually on December 1st. The lobby at the E & O (Eastern and Oriental) Hotel here has one of the loveliest Christmas trees, ever. And I’ve been backing up the hotel choir for the past five years, so it’s always an event to look forward to. Of course, there are lots of guests (see picture), appetizers and drink flow merrily (to get them in the mood), and the hotel General Manager Mike Saxon gives a short message wishing all those present a Merry Christmas before the lights on the Christmas tree are switched on (hence the Lighting ceremony).
This year, under the able guidance of Mr. Khoo Boo Lin and also a new “teacher,” aka Miss Mazeta, the choir belted out a string of Christmas carols, and had the crowd singing along. Yes, it’s always a noisy and boisterous affair, but that’s where the fun and Christmas spirit begin, right?
Rehearsal began at around 3:15 PM, and we didn’t really get done until 4:30 PM. I was ready to crash, and fortunately had one of the Georgetown suites to do this in, thanks to my friend and boss, Mike. Expect to pay about $184 USD for this suite per night. It’s fully air-conditioned with lovely wooden flooring. Anyways, I reported back to the lobby at 6 PM, set up my keyboard, and played some Christmas carols to get the crowd into the festive mood. An hour later the General Manager Mike Saxon gave his short but eloquent speech, and then the Christmas tree lights were turned on. The hotel choir sang a medley of carols, and the whole ceremony ended around 8 PM.
Hours later, here I am, at my computer. Finished downloading the pictures, typing the text, and here’s the post for all to see. Hope you enjoy reading it. Season’s Greetings to everybody.
Hi Philip,
Those are absolutely beautiful pictures of the festivities. That is one of the most wonderful trees I think I have ever seen.
Wish I could have been there dear friend!
Love from the States,
Leisa
Oh, thanks for the lovely comment, Leisa. Yes, the tree is a sight to behold. It’s probably one of the largest here in Penang.
All you need to come over is an air ticket, lol.
There it is — that smile I have been looking for. And I had to go all the way back to the beginning to find it.
Hey pr–seek and ye shall find!!