Our country has several well-loved Christmas traditions that we have observed for years and are treasured by generations of families.
Simbang Gabi
Many Filipinos believe that completing the nine-day novena masses will make Christmas wishes come true.
Caroling
Filipinos sure love to sing and during the holiday season, this fondness for music is manifested through caroling. Neighborhood kids sing with hand-crafted tambourines while adult carolers have ventured into more high-tech versions, with microphones, mobile speakers, and even lights as they render their song and dance numbers.
Exchange gifts
This sharing of blessings often comes in the form of Aguinaldo (usually from godparents), small funny items (monito monita), and of course, the much-awaited exchanging of gifts with the family on Christmas Eve.
Noche Buena
On Christmas Eve, families get together at 12 midnight to partake of a lavish banquet. The Yuletide table is filled with all kinds of dishes including King Sue’s Chinese Bone-in Ham and other premium meat products. Its Pear Shape, Piña and Sweet Hams, bacon, sausages, cold cuts, and chorizos, are also favorite ingredients in some recipes, including lasagna, paella, pasta, tacos, sandwiches, and salads.