Media

Penang, 1 December 2015 – Cheers and applause broke out as a gigantic Christmas tree was lit up amid much fanfare at a cocktail reception in the Eastern & Oriental Hotel (E&O Hotel) heritage wing lobby.

The towering, resplendent 6-metre Christmas tree, which was decked with 5,500 twinkling fairy lights, candy canes and shiny bells in brilliant Christmas hues of red and gold, was lit at about 7.30pm to the delight of some 450 guests.

With brightly-wrapped presents lining its base, the stunning tree was the result of over 18 hours spent by hotel staff to decorate it.

Guests who included expatriates, in-house hotel guests, corporate clients and government representatives added to the evening’s festive mood.

E&O group hospitality and lifestyle director Michael Saxon said the annual tradition of lighting up the Christmas tree was a customary practice since the hotel’s revamp in 2003.

“Since then it has been on the social calendar of our guests and business partners who look forward to returning to celebrate the festive season with us at E&O Hotel.

“The giant tree also stands as a symbol of the spirit of giving and sharing and we take this opportunity to thank our guests and business partners for their support throughout this wonderful year,” he said.

Saxon later announced the winner of the 130th anniversary lucky draw contest for one year free dining and presented the prize to Ms.Ng Jen Yee. 

Guests were feted to cocktails and canapes throughout the night. Saxon also led the guests and hotel staff during the Christmas carolling session with the warm notes reverberating through the famous E&O Hotel dome.

Young guests and children were thrilled when Santa Claus joined the party with his hearty laugh as he gave out goodies.