Why Christmas is More Fun in the Philippines
James Aquino After visiting more than thirty international cities in three continents (and still counting), James is on a quest to visit at least two new countries each year. A registered nurse, a stage father, and a grumpy husband, he has always believed that travelling offers something that you will never learn from school. His best advice is to always take pictures along your way, but never forget the stories behind them.
Image credit: Deepa Paul Plazo
September. The start of the “-ber” months also marks the start of the happiest season in the Philippines. Christmas season comes with the most sought after activities by both Filipinos and Filipinos at heart. A season filled with joy, lights, and sounds, we list down the reasons why Christmas season is such an awesome experience in the Philippines.
Also read: 7 Christmas Traditions that Will Always Be in Every Filipino’s Heart
The Philippines has, technically, three seasons: Dry, Rainy, and Christmas Season
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Having a tropical climate, the country has only the hot dry season and the rainy season. What is in between is casually called the Christmas season because there is a loose margin that separates it from the dry and rainy seasons, and sometimes, it even overlaps with one of them. During the Christmas season, the breeze becomes cooler, and it is harder to wake up in the mornings because of the mild weather, which is so inviting for an extended snooze.
The country has arguably the longest Christmas Season in the world
Image credit: Keith Bacongco
In some countries, you will only feel the holiday season in late November. In the Philippines, September is the unofficial start of the Christmas Season. Countdowns and sales typically start from this month. Also, the roadsides start to sparkle both day and night due to the vendors of lanterns and Christmas decors that illuminate the roads and highways with vibrant colours.
Christmas songs are literally everywhere
The original pinoy music, or OPM, shines bright during the Christmas season. These songs are played literally everywhere, from the taxi, to the malls, to that convenience store in the corner, and even in the office. Songs such as the perennial favourite, "Whenever I see girls and boys selling lanterns on the street..." (I'm sure you sang that part) and Ang Pasko ay Sumapit fill the air with excitement. There are also bittersweet songs like Sana Ngayong Pasko and Pasko na Sinta ko. Newer favourites include Pasko ng Pinas and Sa Araw ng Pasko. Whether heard through the soft crooning of an OPM artist or the lively voices of carolers on the street, Christmas songs always evoke feelings of celebration among the Pinoys.
There are delicacies that are only available during the Christmas Season
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Unless you pay a visit to a specialty restaurant or grocery, some local delicacies are only available during this particular season. Puto Bumbong and Bibingka magically appear on the roadside and near chapels and churches. The smell of freshly cooked puto bumbong coming from that contraption with two baby chimneys and clay pots add a hearty atmosphere that will make you feel warm and fuzzy. These delicacies are also perfect with coffee or tea, whether in the morning or late afternoons. Other special dishes are only more visible during Christmas, like Jamon de Bola, Queso de Bola, Lengua, and other main courses that trace their roots to influences from the Spanish and Chinese cuisines.
Also read: 25 Popular Street Food & Snacks to Try in the Philippines
Simbang gabi
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A country where the majority of people are Roman Catholics, Simbang Gabi is one of the most prominent activities that happen during the month of December. It is a series of masses held daily from December 16 to 24. The schedule varies, but generally, the mass is held very early in the morning. The last day of the series is called Misa de Gallo, literally translated from Spanish as "Rooster's Mass."
Reunions are Everywhere during Christmas
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From massive family reunions to simple gatherings of smaller families, reunions are everywhere during Christmas. It is the only season where balikbayans prefer to stay longer because of the happy vibe and the completeness of the family members. It shows the tight-knit relationship of a typical Filipino family, spending time together with the grandparents and grandchildren.
Also read: 7 Unique Ways to Celebrate Christmas in the Philippines
Lots of celebrations on the side
Image credit: Ilocos Norte
From sales, to office parties, to town celebrations and other festivities that are connected to Christmas, there are surely a lot of events that happen during the season to be jolly. Bargains are also one of the reasons to celebrate, as they occur as early as September to make way for consumers who don't want to get stuck with the last-minute Christmas rush. Also, you can add a more meaningful event to your Christmas activities by participating in charity and civic events, which are more commonly held during this season.
A symbol of hope, a season of love, a moment of sharing and caring
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Regardless of religious upbringing or economic background, this season is a great way to enjoy the time with the family and friends, and a perfect way to appreciate the essence of caring and sharing as well.
Also read: 9 Philippine Destinations to Spend Your Christmas Vacations
Nowadays, the saying that Christmas is only for children is starting to become more and more evident, especially for the working population. In a world heavily influenced by technology, and when work is getting heavier by the day, wouldn’t it be great if we spend more time with what matters most–our family? Let the holiday spirit live long and healthy in every Filipino home.
Any plans of going home for Christmas?