Christmas celebrations are starting early at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo, where new holiday displays are welcoming families to enjoy the season together. Each mall has introduced a different Christmas theme, offering colorful backdrops for family photos, festive outings, and moments with loved ones.
Part of SM’s 2026 Super Magical Christmas celebration, the installations feature woodland-inspired scenery, candy-themed decorations, and an outdoor Christmas camp. The malls will also host Santa Claus appearances on select dates and introduce the latest Besties of Joy collectibles, adding more activities to the holiday experience.
What Christmas Displays Can You Visit at SM Malls in East Metro Manila?
Each participating mall has its own holiday centerpiece, with a character guiding visitors through a themed Christmas setting.
SM City Marikina: Holiday Twinklewoods
SM City Marikina welcomes visitors to Holiday Twinklewoods, a whimsical woodland filled with glowing Christmas trees, storybook-style mushrooms, and forest-inspired details.
Mika, the mall’s official character, leads the theme, giving children and families a playful setting to explore. The woodland design also offers plenty of opportunities for holiday photos, whether visitors are stopping by after shopping or making the display part of a family day out.
SM City Masinag: Macy’s Holiday Candyland
At SM City Masinag, Macy’s Holiday Candyland brings a sweeter take on Christmas decorating. The display features pastel-colored Christmas trees, candy-inspired ornaments, and oversized lollipops.
Led by Macy, the colorful installation offers a cheerful backdrop for families, friends, and anyone looking to capture festive photos during a mall visit.
SM City San Mateo: Matt’s Christmas Camp
SM City San Mateo takes an outdoor-inspired approach with Matt’s Christmas Camp. The holiday centerpiece features a festive Christmas tree, a cozy campfire setting, and cheerful companions.
Matt leads this camping-themed Christmas experience, which brings a different atmosphere to the mall’s seasonal decorations. Families can explore the display and take photos while enjoying a holiday outing.
Where Can Families Meet Santa Claus This Christmas?
Santa Claus will make special appearances at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo on select dates. These visits will give children and families opportunities to meet Santa and take photos together.
Families planning a visit should check their preferred mall’s official social media pages for the specific appearance dates, schedules, and any registration or activity requirements.
For parents, these meet-and-greet opportunities can become part of a simple holiday tradition. A photo with Santa, a walk through the Christmas displays, and a shared meal can turn an ordinary shopping trip into a seasonal family outing.
Who Are the New Besties of Joy for 2026?
The 2026 Besties of Joy collectibles feature four characters: Maki, Matty, Sera, and Sasha.
The collectibles are part of SM’s Christmas initiative focused on sharing joy with children in need. The malls will showcase the new characters as the holiday season gets underway.
Details about how to obtain the collectibles and how the initiative supports beneficiaries were not included in the announcement. Visitors can check official SM channels for additional information about availability and participation.
How to Make the Most of a Christmas Mall Visit
With themed installations and seasonal activities available, a little planning can help families enjoy their visit without rushing.
Here are a few ways to make the outing more memorable:
Visit during quieter hours. Weekday mornings or early afternoons may offer a more relaxed experience, depending on mall traffic and activity schedules.
Plan family photos. Coordinate outfits or choose a simple holiday color palette if you want your photos to feel connected.
Check Santa’s schedule first. Since appearances will take place on select dates, confirm the schedule before traveling.
Look for additional activities. Check each mall’s announcements for performances, workshops, promotions, and other seasonal events.
Make time for a shared meal. Pair the Christmas display visit with lunch, merienda, or dinner to turn it into a fuller family outing.
These suggestions are especially useful for families visiting with young children, who may enjoy the experience more when there is enough time to explore and take breaks.
Where Can You See SM’s Super Magical Christmas Displays?
The three Christmas destinations are located at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo in the East Metro area.
Each location offers a distinct theme, so families can choose the display closest to home or visit all three for different holiday photo opportunities. Before heading out, check the malls’ official channels for updated event information, operating hours, and activity schedules.
With Christmas displays, planned Santa appearances, and the new Besties of Joy characters, SM’s 2026 holiday celebration offers families more reasons to spend time together during the season.
Whether you prefer the woodland charm of Holiday Twinklewoods, the playful colors of Macy’s Holiday Candyland, or the outdoorsy feel of Matt’s Christmas Camp, these installations offer a festive way to welcome the holidays close to home.