MANILA: In many parts of the world, the holiday rush has just begun, but for Filipinos, it is already in full swing as they embrace local traditions and the festive spirit of what is known as the world’s longest Christmas season.
Christmas songs begin airing on the radio as early as September and continue through October, November, and December — the so-called “ber months,” a time when the northeast monsoon brings cooler weather.
“As soon as September rolls around, Christmas songs start playing, and the festive spirit begins to take over. Personally, I love it — it’s such a reflection of our celebratory and joyful nature as a culture. Stretching out the season just gives us more time to embrace the happiness and togetherness that Christmas brings,” Noelle Lejano, 24, a writer and brand strategist, told Arab News.
For her, Christmas is a time that brings people together like no other.
“Christmas in the Philippines stands out because it’s not just a day or even a week — it’s a months-long celebration that showcases our strong sense of community and joy,” she said. “The blend of our festive spirit, the warmth of our traditions, and our love for making every moment count makes Christmas in the Philippines truly one-of-a-kind.”
A blend of the country’s deep-rooted Catholic influences, indigenous folk traditions, and adopted Western commercial practices has created a unique holiday season for Filipinos.
Its significance is especially felt in provinces such as Pampanga, about 80 km north of Manila, where the season also marks a surge in livelihood opportunities.
The province is known as a food capital and a hub for lantern makers, with traces of the holiday spirit season felt even earlier in the year.
Parol, the traditional star-shaped lantern that Filipino households hang in front of their homes each year, is one of the most famous items produced in Pampanga’s capital city, San Fernando. The parol symbolizes the star that guided the Three Wise Men to the manger of Jesus in Bethlehem.
“The festive spirit begins as early as July, when lantern makers start crafting their giant creations for the famous Giant Lantern Festival. By August, streets are adorned with vibrant lanterns of all shapes and sizes. From the food to the atmosphere and various festivities, Pampanga truly embodies the essence of Christmas,” said Gerald Gloton, a Pampanga-based photographer.
Many Filipinos believe in the spirit of the holidays as a time for families to reunite, with Filipinos in the country and abroad traveling to their native towns to be with their loved ones.
“That is the only time we can spend time together as a family. They are staying in Sorsogon while I’m currently working and living in Quezon City,” said Nicca Parico, a government employee.
“It’s magic. It’s also a time for reconciliation. Those who do not speak for months suddenly smile at each other or have small talks.”
While Christmas is marked by traditional delicacies that many Filipinos eat only once a year, what truly matters is not what is on the table, but the time spent reuniting with loved ones and witnessing the joy of children like never before.
“This is the season where kids are anticipating so many things to happen and of course for them to receive gifts,” said Paul Caneda, an executive at a sporting company. “(Christmas for me) is mainly for family gatherings, being with people you love most.”
