Christmas Is More Fun in the Philippines, Here’s Why
Christmas is the most magical and exciting time of the year. The holiday spirit, love, and cheer are brimming and bringing happiness to everyone in every part of the world. However, there’s one place, in particular, that’s twice as fun and merry — the Philippines.
In the Philippines, the holiday season signifies love, peace, and joy. Everyone gets together and celebrates unity — people become kinder and enemies become friends.
But, that’s not the only reason why the country is a wonderful place to visit during Christmas. Christmas is more fun in the Philippines, and here’s why.
Locals are full of Christmas cheer.
Filipinos enjoy spreading Christmas cheer, and one way they do it is by caroling. As soon as the -ber months begin, you will hear famous Christmas carols, including Silent Night, Last Christmas, Feliz Navidad, and Jingle Bell Rock.
Children and adult groups visit one house to the next to spread the Christmas spirit, singing their own curated Christmas setlist. If you’re up for some fun, you can do it with your friends and have a good time all night.
You can attend Simbang Gabi.
Simbang Gabi refers to the nine masses leading to Christmas Day. As early as 4 am, you can see people walking in the streets on their way to church.
Filipinos believe that if you complete all the masses, whatever you wish for will be granted. This is also one of the reasons why even the children wake up early and come with their parents to church.
After the mass, they will eat local delicacies, including puto bumbong, bibingka, and puto, which they will pair with hot coffee or chocolate.
You will find countless Christmas attractions.
Of course, the Christmas season won’t be complete without festive attractions. Aside from Filipinos decorating their houses with dazzling lights and lanterns, you can also find beautiful Christmas displays and attractions, making the holiday a lot more enjoyable and memorable.
In San Fernando City, Pampanga, you can witness the Giant Lantern Festival, featuring hundreds of lanterns interplaying with lights and music.
You can also visit Cavite and experience Paskuhan sa Imus, which showcases trade fairs, beauty contests, and fireworks displays, to name a few.
Other attractions also include the following.
- UST Paskuhan Festivities at España, Manila
- Christmas Village at Policario Street, Mandaluyong City
- UP Lantern Parade at Diliman Quezon City
- Ayala Triangle Lights and Sounds Show at Ayala Avenue, Makati City
- Christmas-on-display at Araneta City
You will fill your belly with delicious food.
One of the highlights of Filipino Christmas is the food. Forget about your diet because you won’t be able to say no at a Filipino feast.
Filipinos do not take Christmas parties lightly. They will prepare an overflowing amount of food such as lechon, lumpia, Filipino-style spaghetti, crispy pata, and more.
Then, on Christmas Eve, Filipino families will prepare a feast to eat at exactly 12 midnight. Aside from the food, what makes this moment special is the warmth and meaningful time shared by these families.
Experience the Filipino Christmas spirit.
If you want to experience a truly merry Christmas, look no further. Come and visit the Philippines this holiday season. Plan your vacation with us today.