Courtyard by Marriott Shillong kicked off the holiday season in style with the Second Edition of its Cake Mixing and Tree Lighting Celebration on the 8th December,2024. The magical evening blended warmth, tradition, and festive cheer, bringing together two iconic events to mark the perfect start to the season. The venue was transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland with elaborate decorations, and a magnificent Christmas tree adorned with twinkling lights symbolizing the warmth and joy of the season. City enthusiasts, loyal patrons, in-house guests, and hotel associates gathered to celebrate, creating cherished memories in the heart of Shillong. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills District – Smt. Rosette Kurbah, Rev. Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong – Victor Lyngdoh, Rector of St. Anthony’s College Shillong – Father Joby Joseph and MDC of Rambrai-Jyrngam – Bajop Pyngrope bringing them all together and celebrating Shillong.
The evening’s centerpiece was the Cake Mixing Ceremony at The Courtyard, a beloved tradition symbolizing community bonding and festive joy. Guests and dignitaries enthusiastically joined hands to mix a medley of dried fruits, nuts, spices, and spirits, preparing the base for Christmas cakes. This was followed by the highly anticipated Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Poolside, where the crowd came together for a lively countdown to illuminate the Christmas tree. The tree’s warm, golden glow, accompanied by carol singing by a talented choir, left everyone in awe and filled the air with the true essence of Christmas. The festivities included the launch of the new Shillong Baking Company menu which Smt. Rosette Kurbah inaugurated the opening, giving guests a first taste of innovative culinary delights and seasonal specialties such as Avoc-Broc Vegan Salad, Pulled Barbeque Chicken Calzone, Quinoa Bocconcini Salad, and others complemented by mulled wine and hot chocolate—favorites of the season. A curated showcase of Christmas hampers filled with handcrafted goodies from the Shillong Baking Company added a perfect gifting option for the festive season.
Entertainment added to the charm of the evening with live performances, including a mesmerizing saxophone recital and soulful music by Colours – Shillong’s popular live band. Santa Claus delighted children with gifts and warm wishes, spreading cheer and smiles among the little ones. The ambiance was enhanced by a cozy bonfire area for guests to relax and connect, and a vibrant festive photo booth captured magical moments for everyone to cherish. On this joyous occasion, Mr. Tushar Nagar, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, commented: “The holiday season is a time to come together, celebrate, and spread joy. By hosting the Cake Mixing and Tree Lighting together this year, we aimed to create an evening filled with magical moments and cherished connections. It was our way of spreading festive cheer and making this season truly memorable for our guests and Shillong as a whole.” The event celebrated the essence of Christmas—joy, giving, and togetherness—while reinforcing Courtyard by Marriott Shillong’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences. The Second Edition of the Cake Mixing and Tree Lighting Ceremony proved to be an unforgettable evening of unity, joy, and holiday cheer, setting the perfect tone for a festive season to remember.
