Are you celebrating Christmas in the Philippines? We’ve gathered the complete guide for Filipino Christmas traditions to help you out – including how they celebrate, gifting etiquette, and more.
To help you explore their Christmas traditions, this article is organized into:
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Unique Christmas Traditions in the Philippines
- Early Start to Christmas: The Christmas season in the Philippines begins as early as September, marked by the arrival of the “Ber” months. Decorations and Christmas carols can be found in malls and homes long before December, showcasing the Filipinos’ enthusiasm for the holiday.
- House-to-House Caroling: Caroling is a beloved tradition where groups of singers visit homes to perform Christmas songs in exchange for treats or small gifts. This practice not only spreads holiday cheer but also strengthens community ties.
- Iconic Decorations: One of the most recognizable symbols of Filipino Christmas is the “Parol”, a star-shaped lantern traditionally made from bamboo and colorful materials. These lanterns are displayed outside homes and public spaces, symbolizing hope and guiding light.
- Simbang Gabi: This tradition involves attending a series of nine dawn masses from December 16 to 24, known as Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo. It is believed that completing all nine masses will grant a person’s wishes. This custom fosters community spirit as families gather for worship early in the morning.
How to Say “Merry Christmas” in Tagalog?
Extend Christmas wishes in Tagalog with the phrase, “Maligayang Pasko!”
Do you need more variety of Christmas wishes? Here is our full article on Christmas Wishes in Tagalog.
Filipino Christmas Gifting Etiquette
Gifting is an important part of Filipino Christmas culture. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do’s in Gifting
- Participate in Unique Group Gift Exchanges: Engaging in traditions like manito-manita, where gifts are exchanged among groups (often involving drawing names), is common during Christmas celebrations.
- Choose Thoughtful Gifts: Filipinos greatly appreciate gifts that show consideration for the recipient’s preferences and needs. Personal or sentimental items often hold more value than expensive ones.
- Wrap Gifts Beautifully: The presentation matters significantly in Filipino culture. A well-wrapped gift with attention to detail demonstrates effort and respect for the recipient.
- Express Gratitude: When receiving a gift, it is customary to say thank you immediately. However, gifts are usually opened later in private unless insisted upon by the giver.
- Bring a Small Gift When Visiting: If invited to someone’s home, it is polite to bring a small token such as flowers, chocolates, or candies. This gesture shows appreciation for the host’s hospitality.
Don’ts in Gifting
- Don’t Expect Gifts to Be Opened Immediately: It’s common for recipients to set aside gifts after thanking the giver. This practice emphasizes respect and appreciation rather than immediate gratification.
- Steer Clear of Certain Items: Some gifts carry negative connotations; for example, giving shoes may imply that you want the recipient to walk out of your life. Handkerchiefs are also avoided as they symbolize tears and sadness.
- Don’t Neglect Cultural Nuances: Be mindful of local customs and superstitions when selecting gifts. Understanding these cultural nuances can help avoid unintentional faux pas.
- Avoid Generic Gifts: While practical items are appreciated, generic gifts may lack personal touch. Aim for something that reflects your relationship with the recipient or their interests
Traditional Filipino Christmas Food
The Christmas season in the Philippines is a vibrant and lengthy celebration, marked by unique culinary traditions that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Bibingka: This sweet rice cake is made from glutinous rice and coconut milk, traditionally baked in clay pots lined with banana leaves. It is often enjoyed during the nine-day Simbang Gabi (dawn masses) leading up to Christmas.
- Puto Bumbong: A traditional dessert made from purple glutinous rice steamed in bamboo tubes, puto bumbong is served with butter, sugar, and grated coconut.
- Hamon: Filipino-style glazed ham (hamonada) is often featured prominently during Noche Buena, representing prosperity for the coming year.
Noche Buena
On Christmas Eve, families gather for a late-night feast called Noche Buena. This meal often includes traditional dishes like lechon (roast pig), ham, queso de bola (edam cheese), and various sweets. It’s a time for family reunions and sharing stories, and many attend the midnight mass before dining together.
“Paskong Pinoy” Events
Many cities and towns host “Paskong Pinoy” (Filipino Christmas) events that include food fairs, street dancing, and cultural performances. These events celebrate Filipino heritage and bring communities together during the holiday season.
Merry Christmas Songs
The Philippines has its own repertoire of Christmas songs, many of which are sung in Filipino languages. Songs like “Pasko Na Naman” and “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit” are popular and often performed during caroling, family gatherings, and church services.
Conclusion
Celebrating Christmas in the Philippines goes beyond food and gifts. It’s a time to honor love, cherish family, and embrace timeless traditions. Christmas is imbued with cultural richness and meaningful celebrations. Have a happy holiday!
Sophie is an etiquette coach who has the rare ability to make the intricacies of etiquette approachable and fun. She travels around the world coaching families, individuals, corporates and independent schools. Sophie has honed her craft without losing her easy-going charm.