How Do The Philippines Celebrate Christmas

The Philippines is known for its colorful and joyous celebrations, and Christmas is no exception. In fact, Christmas is arguably the most celebrated holiday in the country, and the preparations start as early as September. Here’s a glimpse into how Filipinos celebrate Christmas.

Simbang Gabi

Simbang Gabi, which means “Night Mass,” is a series of nine dawn masses that start on December 16 and end on Christmas Eve. These masses are usually held at 4:00 or 5:00 am and are attended by Filipinos of all ages. The Simbang Gabi is a Catholic tradition that originated in Mexico in the 16th century and was introduced to the Philippines by Spanish colonizers.

After attending the mass, people buy local delicacies such as bibingka and puto bumbong from vendors outside the church. Bibingka is a rice cake made with coconut milk and baked in a clay pot lined with banana leaves, while puto bumbong is a purple rice cake served with grated coconut and muscovado sugar.

Parol

The parol is a traditional Filipino lantern made of bamboo sticks and colored paper or cellophane. It symbolizes the star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Kings to the manger where Jesus was born. The parol comes in various shapes and sizes, but the most common design is the five-pointed star.

Parol-making is a popular activity in schools and communities, and there are even parol-making contests held during the Christmas season. Parols are usually hung outside houses, offices, and even on streets and highways, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Noche Buena

Noche Buena is a Spanish term that means “good night” and refers to the Christmas Eve feast that Filipinos have with their families and friends. The Noche Buena feast is a grand affair that usually consists of traditional Filipino dishes such as lechon (roast pig), hamon (ham), queso de bola (Edam cheese), and various desserts such as fruit salad, leche flan, and buko pandan.

After the feast, families usually attend the Misa de Gallo or the Midnight Mass, which is the culminating event of the Simbang Gabi.

Aguinaldo

Aguinaldo is a Spanish term that means “gift” or “bonus” and is usually given to employees, friends, and family members during the Christmas season. Aguinaldo can come in various forms, such as cash, gift certificates, or even food items such as ham or queso de bola.

Gift-giving is a big part of the Filipino Christmas tradition, and it is customary to exchange gifts on Christmas Day. Children usually receive gifts from their godparents, a tradition known as “pamamasko.”

Pasko sa Pamilya

Pasko sa Pamilya or “Christmas with the Family” is a time-honored tradition in the Philippines. It is a time for families to bond and spend quality time with each other. Families usually decorate their homes with Christmas lights and ornaments and prepare special meals and desserts.

In some provinces, families celebrate Christmas with a “salu-salo,” which is a communal feast where neighbors and relatives share food and drinks. This tradition highlights the Filipino value of hospitality and generosity.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time of joy, love, and giving, and Filipinos take this holiday seriously. The Simbang Gabi, parol-making, Noche Buena, aguinaldo, and Pasko sa Pamilya are just some of the many ways that Filipinos celebrate Christmas. The Christmas season in the Philippines is truly a time of great celebration, and the festive atmosphere is something that every Filipino looks forward to.