Christmas is a magical time of year in the Philippines, celebrated with a unique blend of religious devotion, family gatherings, and vibrant traditions.
As the country with the longest Christmas season in the world, the Philippines offers a festive atmosphere that begins as early as September and culminates in joyous celebrations through to the New Year.
Here, we delve into some of the most cherished traditions that make a Filipino Christmas so special.
The Ber Months: A Prolonged Celebration
The Christmas spirit in the Philippines starts during the "Ber months" (September to December). Streets are adorned with colourful lights, and homes display the iconic parol, a star-shaped lantern symbolising the Star of Bethlehem. The air is filled with Christmas songs, both classic carols and Filipino favourites like "Pasko Na Sinta Ko" and "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit".
Simbang Gabi: A Spiritual Tradition
A hallmark of Filipino Christmas is Simbang Gabi, a nine-day series of early morning Masses beginning on 16 December and culminating on Christmas Eve. For many, attending these dawn services is an act of devotion, with the belief that completing all nine Masses grants a special wish. After Mass, churchgoers enjoy traditional Filipino delicacies like bibingka (rice cakes) and puto bumbong (purple steamed rice cakes).
Noche Buena: A Feast of Togetherness
On Christmas Eve, families gather for Noche Buena, a grand midnight feast symbolising love and togetherness. The table overflows with festive dishes such as lechón (roast pig), hamón (Christmas ham), queso de bola (edam cheese), and a variety of Filipino desserts. This meal is more than just food; it’s a cherished moment to bond with loved ones and celebrate the joy of the season.
Christmas Day and Beyond
On Christmas Day, families attend Mass and spend time visiting relatives and friends. Children perform the mano tradition, a gesture of respect where they take the hand of an elder and press it to their forehead, often receiving gifts or money in return. The festive spirit continues with parties, games, and carolling, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere.
Filipino Ingenuity: Creative Decorations
Filipinos are known for their creativity, and this is evident in their Christmas décor. The parol is the quintessential decoration, crafted from materials like bamboo, paper, or capiz shells. Public spaces feature grand displays, including Christmas trees, nativity scenes (belen), and elaborate light shows, transforming towns and cities into a holiday wonderland.
Epilogue: A Season of Faith and Joy
The essence of a Filipino Christmas lies in its focus on faith, family, and generosity. From the early dawn Masses to the sumptuous feasts and heartfelt traditions, every aspect of the celebration is imbued with love and gratitude. For Filipinos, Christmas is not just a holiday—it is a heartfelt expression of hope, unity, and joy.
As the year draws to a close, the Christmas season in the Philippines reminds us of the importance of coming together and cherishing life’s blessings. Whether you’re Filipino or simply curious about this vibrant culture, experiencing a traditional Filipino Christmas is sure to leave a lasting impression.