Lights, cheer and quiet reflection

As the winds of Ditwah, swept across the country, Colombo responded not with retreat but with quiet resilience.

- BY ZANITA CAREEM

The city's festive rhythm continued to be subtle yet assured reminding that celebration in Colombo has never been about spectacle but above spirit.From Galle Face to the heart of the city, hotels and public spaces were dressed in festive splendour. Lobbies echoed with seasoned melodies, tables were laid with delicious spreads, and December air carried the unmistakable promise of celebrations.

The month of December in Colombo has always been a time of warmth beyond cool weather, fairy lights strung along palm lined roads, carols drifting from hotel lobbies, and the gentle hum of families and friends reclaiming public spaces. This year, however the celebrations arrived tempered with empathy, while the capital regained its rhythm, memories of displacement and loss in other parts of the island lingered shaping a festive mood that felt more conscious, more human

Across the city roads and public spaces were alive again. Galle Road sparkled after dusk, traffic flowed steadily and Galle Face Green was a hive of activity

where children chased kites, couples lingered over street food and the sea breeze carried a sense of collective relief.

The hospitality sector for a long time, a barometer of Colombo's mood embraced the season with elegance and sensitivity.

At Hilton Colombo festive dining unfolded against polished interiors glowing with festive décor, while Taj Samudra offered seasonal menus that married tradition with comfort. Their newly opened Navaratne restaurant gave the diners a new Indian experience with authentic food.

At Galle Face Hotel history came alive in a series of traditions and celebrations that blended warmth, community and timeless charm.