The Spirit of Christmas, Filipino Style

The Philippines, a tropical paradise, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Unlike other countries, our Christmas celebration is a grand affair that stretches over four months, starting as early as September, which we affectionately call the "ber" months.

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A Festive Atmosphere

As soon as September hits, the air is filled with excitement and anticipation. Streets, houses, and malls are adorned with dazzling lights, creating a magical ambiance. One iconic symbol of the Filipino Christmas is the Parol, a colorful star-shaped lantern that illuminates the night sky.

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A Family Affair

Family plays a central role in the Filipino Christmas tradition. One of the most cherished customs is attending the Simbang Gabi (Misa de Gallo), a series of nine dawn masses held in the nine days leading up to Christmas Day. Waking up before dawn, often around 4 AM, to attend these masses is a unique experience. The sound of hundreds of voices singing Christmas carols fills the church, creating a truly spiritual atmosphere.

Devotees take part in the first of a nine-day pre-dawn Mass, locally called "Simbang Gabi," before Christmas at a church in Manila, Philippines, Dec. 16, 2016. (CNS photo/Erik De Castro, Reuters)

After the mass, a delightful treat awaits: freshly baked Pandesal, a soft and fluffy Filipino bread. The aroma of warm bread fills the air, tempting both young and old. Another popular Christmas treat is Puto Bumbong, a purple rice cake steamed in bamboo tubes and topped with sugar and butter. Let's not forget those delicious Bibingka!

A Festive Feast

Christmas Day is a time for feasting and family gatherings. A traditional Filipino Christmas Eve dinner, or Noche Buena, often includes a roasted pig, or lechon, along with a variety of dishes like pancit (noodles) and lumpia (spring rolls). After dinner, families gather to sing carols or do karaoke, exchange gifts, and enjoy each other's company.

These are just a few of the many traditions that make a Filipino Christmas truly special. While the holidays may look different from year to year, the spirit of Christmas remains the same: a time for family, faith, and joy.

Share your fond memories of Filipino Christmas!

How do you celebrate Christmas away from home? What traditions do you hold dear? Your stories can inspire others and keep the spirit of Filipino Christmas alive, no matter where you are in the world.

Join the conversation and let us know your favorite Filipino Christmas moments in the comment section below!