It's already November and already we're counting down the days until Christmas! The Philippines has been a predominantly Christian nation ever since we were colonized by Spain around four hundred years ago with over 80% of the population practicing the Christian faith. Thus, Christmas has been celebrated by Filipino families for over four centuries and a deeply rooted tradition in our country.

Christmas celebrations would start as early as September or what we call "ber months" where one can hear Christmas songs played on the radio. People will also decorate their houses with "parols" or stars and Christmas trees. When I was a child, I would be excited for Christmas because of the gifts and cash that I will receive from my parents and extended family.

Activities During Christmas Season

Since this is a long holiday, there are a lot of activities as December 25 approaches.

Simbang Gabi or Night Mass it's actually starts at dawn. Filipinos go to mass starting at four AM where the air is so cool you have to wear warm clothes. After the mass we would eat hot treats like bibingka and puto bungbong.

Christmas parties are practiced in the office, schools and even in barangays. A lot of food is served and there are raffles and prizes given away. We also exchange gifts in these parties.

Kids and even adults will visit houses and sing Christmas Carols. The houseowners usually give money. I remember doing this when I was a kid.

Family gatherings are usually done in Christmas. I would meet our extended families like cousins and second cousins during during Noche Buena or Christmas eve. Clans, not just families meet and I'm surprised how many relatives we have. Filipino families can get so big that a twenty-something officemate was already a grandma because her much older cousin's daughter gave birth. We called her "lola" or grandma since then 😅

Christmas celebrations culminates with a feast and usually lechon or roasted pork is served.

Christmas started in our country over four hundred years ago as a religious celebration but nowadays it's a joyful celebration not only to remember the birth of Christ but also for families to get together. It's a time for gift giving, festivities and most importantly, fellowship. At my age I'm still excited whenever Christmas is coming no longer for the gifts but to meet and celebrate with my extended family.