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History
History
This tradition was introduced by the Spanish friars to allow farmers to hear mass before going to the fields early in the morning.
In the olden days, the church bells across the nation start ringing as early as three o'clock, waking people up so they can get ready for four o'clock masses at the break of dawn.
Today, Simbang Gabi is truly a universal celebration of Advent all around the world. It is not just exclusively a Filipino tradition but has become a form of spiritual preparation for everyone who wishes to welcome Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.
Traditions
Traditions
The Paról (Lantern)
The Paról (Lantern)
Nothing is more iconic of the Filipino Christmas spirit than this star-shaped lantern. From simple to extravagant designs, in all shapes and sizes, the paról can be seen hanging outside houses and along streets, many leading to churches. It symbolises the Star of Bethlehem that led the Magi to the manger where Christ was born.
The Aguinaldo (Gift)
The Aguinaldo (Gift)
Similar to other cultures, children would often wear their latest or finest clothes, and visit their elder relatives as well as godparents to pay their respect. During the visit, children would practice the old-age tradition “mano”, where the back of the elder's hand is brought up to touch one's foreheard. For the most part, children are rewarded and presented with aguinaldo such as toys, candies or money by their relatives or godparents.
The Carols
The Carols
Christmas carols are integral to many Christmas traditions, but so much so with the Filipinos that carols start playing as early as September in anticipation of the festive preparations, filling shopping centres, on taxis and public transport, to every house on the street. A popular Filipino song in English immediately recognizable by all Filipinos is "Christmas in our Hearts".
Noche Buena ("A Good Night")
Noche Buena ("A Good Night")
Christmas tradition is not complete without noche buena. It is a feast partaken after the midnight mass with family and friends. It is also when seasonal dishes not served anytime in the year shared proudly by the families. Some popular dishes are hamon, lechon, embutido, bibingka, queso de bola, leche flan and puto bumbong, to name a few.
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