The Philippines proclaims that their celebration of Christmas is the longest in the world. The celebration can be felt as early as the Ber months came in, by this time radio stations are starting to air Christmas songs and jingles. Filipino’s believes that this season is the most important celebration of the year; it is the time to give and share their blessings, the time when families are reunited, the chance to reconcile with your enemy and ultimately it is the season in which our Messiah was born, the savior of mankind.
It is the merriest time of the year in the country; however it is also the most expensive time wherein we spend much on material things. Since the Christmas in the Philippines is mainly adapted from Western culture; Santa Claus, Christmas tree, Christmas card and Noche Buena are usually the icon, nevertheless there is still a Filipino touch.
It is the merriest time of the year in the country; however it is also the most expensive time wherein we spend much on material things. Since the Christmas in the Philippines is mainly adapted from Western culture; Santa Claus, Christmas tree, Christmas card and Noche Buena are usually the icon, nevertheless there is still a Filipino touch.
Lanterns hanged in every houses is a common view during the entire season, it is a must to decorate their homes not only with star lanterns, belen, Christmas tree, Christmas lights but also with all sort of colorful Christmas décor. Parol is the most common and the cheapest Christmas décor, it is usually made with colored paper and bamboo stick with lighting devices to bring out colors during the evening.
Simbang Gabi
The beginning of Simbang gabi is a sign that no one can stop the celebration, this nine days mass in the early morning is a tradition with deep roots in the country’s religious culture because the country is predominated with Roman Catholic practices. There is a belief that if someone completed the nine day mass, his wish will be granted. This may be a reason why some are so eager to attend the morning mass.
The main event of the celebration is the Noche Buena, it is usually held at the night of Christmas Eve. The houses were open to family members, friends, relatives and neighbors who drop by to greet “Maligayang Pasko” carrying “Pamasko” or a Christmas present. These provide the opportunity for reuniting the distant family members and old friends.
The main event of the celebration is the Noche Buena, it is usually held at the night of Christmas Eve. The houses were open to family members, friends, relatives and neighbors who drop by to greet “Maligayang Pasko” carrying “Pamasko” or a Christmas present. These provide the opportunity for reuniting the distant family members and old friends.
Noche Buena
Together they eat traditional Noche Buena cuisines such as ham, spaghetti, pancit canton, sweets, kakanin, queso de bola and fruit salad that are often served in a buffet style. It is an overnight fun and happiness, also a lot of alcoholic drinks is being served up to the day of Christmas which is on the 25th.
On the Christmas day itself, the children are visiting their Lolo and Lola and their Ninong and Ninangs. In return the children are given with gifts, sweets, toys, food and money and everyone is greeted with “maligayang pasko”, kiss and pagmamano is a must on this day, if you miss it, you will not receive any aguinaldo from your ninong and ninang.
For every Filipino home, this is the season to thank our mighty creator for all the blessing they received for the whole year, together they bond as one again, no hatred in their hearts, they just think of giving and sharing.
Some Filipinos may wish that every day is Christmas, every day is a special day, no pain no poverty, the aura of the environment is always happy, and the food is abundant. A weeklong vacation to spend with loved ones, no work, no stress.
This is the way we Filipinos spend our Christmas season, the merriest in the world. We may not have snow and reindeer, but we have adopted this far, that we are all proud to say that the Christmas in our country is celebrated in each and everyone’s heart.
On the Christmas day itself, the children are visiting their Lolo and Lola and their Ninong and Ninangs. In return the children are given with gifts, sweets, toys, food and money and everyone is greeted with “maligayang pasko”, kiss and pagmamano is a must on this day, if you miss it, you will not receive any aguinaldo from your ninong and ninang.
For every Filipino home, this is the season to thank our mighty creator for all the blessing they received for the whole year, together they bond as one again, no hatred in their hearts, they just think of giving and sharing.
Some Filipinos may wish that every day is Christmas, every day is a special day, no pain no poverty, the aura of the environment is always happy, and the food is abundant. A weeklong vacation to spend with loved ones, no work, no stress.
This is the way we Filipinos spend our Christmas season, the merriest in the world. We may not have snow and reindeer, but we have adopted this far, that we are all proud to say that the Christmas in our country is celebrated in each and everyone’s heart.
