Christmas and New Year are just around the corner. A 14-meter-high Christmas tree has been lighted in Xintiandi, setting the stage for holiday programs.

Bright red poinsettia-patterned stained glass decorations and elegant silver ornaments have been put up at the Xintiandi South Block Plaza to create a holiday ambience around the tree.

This is the sixth season for year-end festivities at Xintiandi. "We hope all these decorations can convey our best wishes to the people of Shanghai," says Vincent Lo, chairman and CEO of Shui On Land, the developer of the entertainment complex.

The lighting ceremony and holiday programs are a collaboration with Wai Yin Assn, a charity formed by Miss Hong Kong contestants and title-holders.

To mark the 25th anniversary of both the association and Shui On Land's own charity organization, the Seagull Club, the two parties have donated 200,000 yuan (US$26,700) to the Shanghai Women's Federation Health Fund. The aim is to help more women receive medical and health care services.

A charity photo contest opens today. Around 100 photographers from Hong Kong and Shanghai capture Xintiandi's appeal, as well as Miss Hong Kong's charm. All the proceeds go to the women's federation health fund.

Starting next week, musical performances will be staged outdoors. From next Thursday to Sunday, the Christmas music showcase will feature the Australian band "The Bang!" The show blends upbeat percussion with a near-acrobatic performance that borders on chaotic.

The four-member American group Marcoux Corner, however, will offer a cappella vocal pleasure from December 21 to 25, singing Christmas tunes as well as Beatles' classics.

On New Year's Eve, Xintiandi will present its grand traditional gala - the 2008 Xintiandi Countdown Party at the Taipingqiao Lake. Taiwanese singer Emil Chau and girl group S.H.E will sing their best-known hits.

Through December 25, anyone who spends 500 yuan in credit card purchases at two or more Xintiandi or Corporate Avenue tenants will receive one ticket to the Countdown Party. For details, check www.xintiandi.com.

"The Bang!"

Date: December 13-16, 6:30-7PM, 8-8:30PM, 9:30-10PM

Marcoux Corner

Date: December 21-25, 6:30-7PM, 8-8:30PM, 9:30-10PM

Address: The South Block Plaza (intersection of Xingye and Madang roads)

Tel: 6386-1818, 6323-6006

(Shanghai Daily December 7, 2007)