As one of Asia’s two mostly Catholic nations, the Philippines celebrates Christmas with the longest season in the world, making it one of the most important festivals of the year. Christmas music and decorations start to flood the air around September. Caroling, the unique Misa de Gallo served on Christmas Eve, and the early morning services called Simbang Gabi are all part of this Christmas tradition. New Year’s Eve dinner, or Media Noche, is the last celebration of the holiday season. Aguinaldo, or gifts, given to children by their parents, godparents, and other elder relatives, are also a significant aspect of Christmas in the Philippines.
Christmas Traditions in the Philippines
There are many colorful ways to celebrate Christmas in the Philippines. Here are a few of the Philippines’ most famous Christmas customs:
Simbang Gabi
The nine pre-dawn masses that Filipino Catholics attend as part of the Simbang Gabi are a part of the country’s Christmas custom. It all comes to a close on Christmas Eve after starting on December 16.
Christmas Lanterns (Parols)
One of the most recognizable signs of Christmas in the country is the parol, a traditional Filipino lantern. Adding to the mood, these multi-colored lanterns decorate houses and streets, often crafted from paper and bamboo in the Philippines.
Belen
The Belen, a nativity scene representing the birth of Christ, is another classic Filipino Christmas emblem during the holiday season. This is a typical Christmas decoration for many Filipino homes.
Manito-Manita
Manito-Manita is a Filipino gift-giving ritual that is similar to Secret Santa in that participants exchange presents with a designated receiver, often within a certain budget.
Extended Celebrations
Christmas in the Philippines is celebrated for a very long time, starting in September, and it is well-known for its length around the world. From the beginning of the year until the first Sunday in January, there is a continuous celebration with music, lighting, and feasts leading up to the Feast of the Three Kings, a reference to the Three Wise Men.
Christmas Foods in the Philippines
Many classic Filipino dishes are served around Christmas in the Philippines, which are the staples of the festivities and Filipino cuisine:
- Lechon: Lechon, a meal made of gently cooked pork, is quite popular.
- Bibingka and Puto Bumbong: Rice cakes that are often offered around Christmastime include Bibingka and Puto Bumbong.
- Filipino-style Spaghetti: A sweet spaghetti dish with a taste that is uniquely Filipino.
- Buko Salad: Dessert salads like buko, which are created with young coconut and sweetened milk, are also delicious.
- Lumpiang Ubod: A classic Filipino cuisine, Lumpiang Ubod consists of spring rolls filled with a heart of palm.
- Embutido: A Filipino meatloaf known as embutido is seasoned with ground pork, veggies, cheeses, and raisins.
- Pancit Malabon: One of the most famous Filipino noodle dishes, pancit malabon is characterized by its yellow-orange sauce with a variety of seafood and sliced cooked eggs served over it.
Places to Visit at Christmas in the Philippines
Several cities in the Philippines have special celebrations throughout Christmas. Whether you’re looking for seaside festivities or urban Christmas charm, these places offer a broad choice of experiences that exhibit lively Christmas customs and celebrations throughout the country. When planning a Christmas trip to the Philippines, you can consider visiting these destinations:
- Boracay: It is an island in the Philippines, famous for its stunning beaches and Christmas festivities. The island is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) off the northwest coast of Panay.
- Makati and BGC: Among the several Metro Manila metropolitan hubs that host Christmas celebrations are Makati and BGC (Bonifacio Global City, a financial business district).
- Vigan: The Spanish colonial architecture and traditional Christmas festivities of Vigan make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Philippines.
- Cebu: Cebu has exciting scenery and Christmas celebrations, in addition to its urban attractions. This province consists of 167 surrounding islands and islets.
- La Union: Famous for its beaches and easygoing holiday vibe, La Union is also a popular Christmas destination in the country.
- Siargao: A less hectic Christmas season and beautiful beaches make Siargao a popular vacation spot.