Someone once said, “In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary.” But what if the lights weren’t just right—they were magical, plentiful, and turned a regular evening into a dazzling festival of wonder? That’s precisely how it felt to be at the light-up ceremony of Eko Hotels’ Tropical Christmas Wonderland – Prideland 3.
The magical evening unfolded at the heart of Eko Hotels, where the main lobby and its picturesque garden were transformed into a festive wonderland.
Rows of pristine white chairs were arranged at the entrance for special guests, facing the lush garden which had been transformed into a picturesque wonderland, and offering them a perfect view of the spectacle ahead.
As dusk settled, the event began with a bang—literally. A spectacular fireworks display lit up the Lagos sky, ushered in by a collective countdown led by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. For five enchanting minutes, the night sky glittered like a canvas of shooting stars, as gasps of awe filled the air. Phones were whipped out in unison, each person vying to capture the dazzling scene. The governor’s security detail had their work cut out as they repeatedly asked eager attendees to “move back, please.” But who could blame the crowd? Everyone wanted to freeze this magical moment in time.
However, the event wasn’t just about lights and fireworks—it drew a stellar guest list. Among the attendees was the illustrious Chief Mrs Nike Davies-Okundaye, founder of the renowned Nike Art Gallery, whose presence added an extra sparkle to the night.
As the fireworks faded, the atmosphere shifted seamlessly from light to song. A majestic choir of nearly 100 voices, clad in flowing white garments adorned with dazzling ornaments, took centre stage. With angelic voices, they serenaded the audience with classic Christmas carols, ushering guests into the festive season while spreading a warm holiday spirit. Their backdrop? A garden transformed into a colourful dreamscape of Christmas decorations, reminiscent of an enchanting amusement park.
Bright, colourful Christmas decorations lit up the greenery, creating the perfect stage for the singers and a mesmerising visual feast for the audience.
Though the ceremony was brief, it was unforgettable. Lights, laughter, joy, and music made it a night that will linger in the memories of those fortunate enough to attend. As the choir wrapped up their melodious medley, guests were invited to enjoy drinks and finger foods before departing. However, for those who lingered, the night wasn’t over.
The MC turned the lobby into a dance floor, teaching the crowd some groovy moves. He even led a choreographed routine to Rema’s infectious hit song, “Azaman.” Children and adults alike joined in the fun, dancing with abandon, while others soaked in the energy, chatting and enjoying the music. It was a heartwarming sight: dancing shoes on, laughter ringing out, and the holiday spirit alive and well.
Chief Mrs. Nike Okundaye, renowned Nigerian artist and owner of Nike Art Gallery, shared her delight, saying, “Today made me happy. You know, every time, Nigeria is getting bigger and bigger, stronger and stronger, but today, they just lighted all the whole Nigeria up. This is a great day of our life, of the year.”
She added, “When I was younger, you would hardly see Christmas light, I hardly eat rice, but here, there is so many different things, and I’m just so happy to see Christmas like this in Lagos, especially Zenith [Bank] and Eko Hotel making everybody happy.”
Professor Duro Oni, Retired Professor of Creative Arts at the University of Lagos, remarked, “It’s a great idea because one, they’ve got a place where people can stay, they’re introducing the entertainment that is of tremendous value. So, I think that they should just continue this, because what we have seen with the governor being present and the hierarchy of Eko Hotel being present, and the number of people here, I think it’s a great event.”
In a surprising turn, Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, was present at Eko Hotel during the festivities.
The Nigeria representative who was Runner Up Miss Universe 2024 said, “I’m really excited, it’s my first time spending Christmas here in Nigeria overall, so I’m really looking forward to how much fun I’m going ti have in this festive period.”
Remarking on the activities ongoing for the tropical Christmas programme, she said, “It’s actually really nice to see. Like, I just got here and I’m seeing pretty cool things, so, it’s really exciting to see.”
Eko Hotels’ Tropical Christmas Wonderland – Prideland 3 Tree Lighting Ceremony was more than an event; it was an experience that captured the essence of the holiday season—joy, togetherness, and the magic of light and sound. It reminded everyone that in moments like this, life truly becomes extraordinary.
The Tropical Christmas Wonderland will begin on the 20th of December, and if the tree lighting ceremony was any indication for what is to come, then this is one thing that you definitely don’t want to miss this Christmas season.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi and Melissa Enoch
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