Here in the Philippines, we take pride in celebrating Christmas longer than any other place in the world.   

Truth is, many locals haven't fully realized what it's really about, not until they've celebrated the season in Cebu, Queen City of the South. As early as September followed by the rest of the 'ber' months, Cebuanos can't help but get cheery and festive, sprucing up houses, malls, restaurants, and bustling streets.  

Do they take down and fold away decors past New Year's Eve? Not even close. After the fireworks ring in January, their excitement reaches its peak late in the month for Sinulog, a colorful festival honoring Señor Santo Niño or the Child Jesus.  

If you want to soak in the longest and merriest Christmas celebration in the country, these spectacular spots in Cebu are worth a visit where you can gather with family and friends over warm hugs, fond memories, mouthwatering dishes, and exciting Engkanto beers.  

1. The Pig & Palm

Michelin-starred British chef Jason Atherton and his wife Irha, a native of Cebu, invite everyone near or far to indulge in European gastronomy in The Pig & Palm. Modern tapas-style dishes, many of which feature the finest Filipino produce, are stars of the menu. Meanwhile, the cozy dining place amid a contemporary environment is sought-after in the heart of Cebu Business Park.  

Chef Jason's culinary mastery, sharpened in Gordon Ramsay's kitchen, has laid the foundation for his specialties that include Roast Salmon Fillet, Poached Red Grouper, and Confit Pork Belly. Appreciate a sense of the busy-yet-laid-back Cebuano culture while sharing Umami Bomb Croquettes with your close ones followed by a toast and sip of Live It Up Lager or Green Lava Double IPA. 

2. Draft Punk

Live music, comfort food, craft beer. It’s hard to ask for anything more at Draft Punk. Add in the chill ambience in one of Cebu’s top pubs that never fails to impress newcomers and loyal guests. There’s always something that can make anyone groove from the lineup of bands, events, and festivals, most notably last year’s soulful Fete de la Musique.  

Foodies and hungry tummies will rejoice in Draft Punk’s skewers, sandwiches, and most notably the Punked Out Sisig. It’s their version of the popular Kapampangan delicacy, which has been topped with egg and chicharon. What makes this stand out from the rest? For one, it’s voted as the Best of Cebu in 2021. It’s also the only sisig worthy of pairing with Live It Up Lager and Green Lava Double IPA. 

3. Ripple Bar

Life’s too short to feel sorry about the things you’ve never done, so go ahead and make your holiday merry at Ripple Bar, the only Japanese curtain bar in Metro Cebu. It’s not your typical place for merriment since the set up here is totally intimate. Invite your tight circle to come together in one of the cozy spaces or ruminate your own successes by the softly lit bar. 

Whichever you prefer, they’re serving only drinks here, including the award-winning core lineup of Engkanto beers. No better variant to ease your mood with good company than the juicy Mango Nation Hazy IPA as you lounge amid the calm ambience. 

4. The Reef Island Resort Mactan

A balmy Christmas morning in front of the beautiful shores of Mactan? We can never say no to that. The Reef Island Resort Mactan is an architectural icon designed in harmony with nature, with its 180-degree unhindered view of the ocean, stunning infinity pools, and panoramic view of the city and nearby mountains.  

We haven’t even reached the best part yet. Make a splash of memories with your family by the infinity pool and then satisfy everyone’s craving at The Kitchen where sumptuous lunch that include Katong Laksa is served. Catch the bright of day or unwind for the gorgeous sunset where a glass of Paint Me Purple Ube Lager, High Hive Honey Ale or any of the Engkanto beers is always a delightful pair. 

5. The Vault Room

In the lifestyle district of Banilad, The Vault Room offers exclusivity and luxury of a speakeasy where you can expect discreet pleasure among the elite members. That’s not to say access is strict since you can make a reservation for you and your squad as walk-in guests.  

While the finest liquor names are mainstays in the bar, bespoke drinks and other concoctions from head mixologist Jude are made for those who know how to hush. From the house beats and gastro food such as Grilled Salmon with Ogo Soba Seaweed Salad in Samurai Dressing, a glass (or two) of Green Lava Double IPA will make you warm up as the holiday season gets a little cooler.