As the polished hotel doors glide silently open, and you step inside the white-decked halls; you can feel it instantly. The lobby of EQ has transformed into a perfect little holiday snow-globe, one where the electric shiver of Christmas hangs delicately in the air.

But don’t get it wrong, the hotel is also buzzing with that warm, festive cheer. If there’s one place that knows how to inaugurate the holidays, it’s definitely EQ.

For decades, long before it became the gleaming EQ we know today — back when it was known as the beloved Hotel Equatorial — this hotel has honoured a beautiful tradition: the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. And for this year? They’ve gone and collaborated with a symbol of haute horologerie: Grand Seiko.

The true star of the show, naturally, was the magnificent, towering tree. Standing a staggering 30 feet tall, it was a sight to behold, flawlessly executed to match EQ’s elegant ‘White Christmas’ theme. It looked like a pristine, snowy dream, but they made sure it wasn’t just white — they had also decorated it with these striking blue baubles from Grand Seiko. The gorgeous sapphire hue gave a perfect pop of colour right there in the sea of snowy white.

Now, here’s where the magic truly happened. If you thought you couldn’t get a proper, snowy White Christmas in hot, humid Malaysia? Think again!

As the merry carollers were belting out those jolly festive tunes — the kind that instantly make you smile — the entire lobby fell silent with awe. Suddenly, and completely unexpectedly, the air was filled with… snow! Yes, perfect, delicate white flakes began drifting down from high above the ceiling. It was utterly magical, giving everyone that classic, heart-lifting joy of a proper White Christmas. (And honestly? Whether it was foam or real frost, no one even cared — it felt like a movie moment, and that’s all that counts!)

Spreading the Warmth: The Angel Tree Initiative

Christmas, of course, is about much more than twinkling lights; it’s about spreading warmth and love. And for EQ? They have their annual Angel Tree Initiative.

At the lobby, guests can visit the Angel Tree and pluck a wish card. This simple act allows you to make a donation towards fulfilling the Christmas dreams of children under the thoughtful care of Shelter Home. It’s a beautiful way to ensure the festive spirit reaches those who need it most.

As an additional celebration to spread more warmth and love, EQ’s team are going the extra mile. They will host a special Christmas celebration for the children of Shelter Home on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, featuring a proper festive meal, games, and gifts.

Right up front in the lobby, you’ll also spot EQ’s very own retail shop, which is now running until 4 January 2026. Showcased here is a curated selection of gifts, hampers, and festive treats. For those planning a cosy, warm celebration right at home, you can also choose to bring home a luscious roasted turkey, complete with all the trimmings, prepared by the hotel’s expert culinary team. Now that’s a Christmas dinner done right!

Grand Seiko in the EQ Lobby

Now, while you’re enjoying the festive buzz of the lobby, you absolutely must pop over to the special Grand Seiko “Alive in Time” Exhibition, which is running until 4 January 2026. Presented by Sincere Fine Watches, this elegantly curated exhibition is a celebration of Japanese watchmaking. Inspired by frosty landscapes and the unhurried passage of time, it genuinely couldn’t be a more perfect fit for EQ’s White Christmas theme!

For watch enthusiasts, they’re debuting the new Spring Drive Caliber 9RB2 from the luxurious Evolution 9 Collection. And for a truly rare treat, there’s a live watchmaking demonstration by Master Watchmaker Kato Tomoya on 4 and 5 December 2025. Click here for more details.

More Festivities at EQ

Of course, the festive warmth extends beyond just the lobby. From now until the New Year, the whole of EQ fully transforms into a glittering wonderland of feasts and fun.

For a bit of whimsical indulgence, you absolutely must try The Teddy Bear Tea at Bottega Lounge. It’s an afternoon tea inspired by pure childhood joy, complete with teddy-shaped treats. And of course, EQ’s acclaimed dining outlets such as Nipah, Kampachi, and Sabayon all have their own Christmas and New Years offerings that you surely don’t want to miss.

Finally, make sure you’re around for the spectacular skyline views and countdown celebrations at Blue and Sky51, culminating in EQ’s signature New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop right back down in the lobby.

For more information on the EQ festivities, visit their website here.