Ah, Christmas in the Philippines! If you haven’t experienced a Filipino Christmas yet, you’re in for a treat—literally and figuratively! Picture this: glittering lanterns lighting up the night sky, your stomach happy from an endless parade of sweet and savory dishes, and the warm, welcoming spirit of the Filipino people.
What makes a Filipino Christmas so special? Well, it’s the mix of heartfelt traditions, the vibrant culture, and of course, the food (lots and lots of food). Ready to dive into the ultimate Filipino Christmas Holiday Bucket List? Let’s go!
1. Experience the “Simbang Gabi” (Evening Mass)
Get your early morning mojo on with Simbang Gabi, the nine-day series of pre-dawn masses starting on December 16th. Sure, waking up at 3 a.m. sounds brutal, but the sense of community, devotion, and the promise of a Christmas wish come true make it worth every yawn.
2. Attend the Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve
Nothing says Filipino Christmas like Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve. After mass, it’s time for the Noche Buena feast. Picture this: a big spread of lechon (roast pig), Christmas ham, queso de bola (edam cheese), and bibingka (rice cake). Pure bliss!
3. Go Caroling with Friends and Family
If you’re in the mood for some fun, gather your gang and go caroling. Filipino Christmas carols are infectious, and you might score a few treats or small gifts in return. Trust us, it’s a blast!
4. Feast on Noche Buena
A Filipino Christmas dinner isn’t just a meal; it’s an event! Noche Buena features a delicious mix of savory and sweet dishes, with lechon leading the charge. Don’t forget the tsokolate (hot chocolate) to wash it all down!
5. Admire the Parol (Christmas Lanterns)
The parol, a colorful star-shaped lantern, is the symbol of Filipino Christmas. These beautiful lights can be seen everywhere—on homes, streets, and churches. For a parol overload, head to Pampanga and check out the Parol Makers. Prepare for some jaw-dropping designs!
6. Make Your Own Parol
Feeling crafty? Why not make your own parol! Visit a local market or craft store for supplies and turn it into a fun family project. You’ll have a lantern that’s as unique as your Christmas spirit.
7. Snack on Bibingka and Puto Bumbong
No Filipino Christmas morning is complete without these warm rice cakes, sold right outside churches. The sweet, comforting flavors are the perfect treat to combat the early morning chill.
8. Sip on Filipino Hot Chocolate (Tsokolate de Batirol)
Tsokolate is the perfect remedy for cool December nights. Made from thick cacao tablets, this rich Filipino hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with pan de sal or suman. Sip, savor, and repeat!
9. Indulge in Filipino Christmas Desserts
Leche flan, buko pandan, and suman—need we say more? Each region has its own take on holiday sweets, so make sure to try as many as you can. It’s a holiday calorie splurge that’s totally worth it.
10. Try Halo-Halo with a Christmas Twist
Why should halo-halo just be for summer? Some spots offer a festive Christmas version with red and green toppings, leche flan, and ube ice cream. It’s the holiday dessert we didn’t know we needed!
11. Watch Filipino Christmas Movies
Grab your popcorn and enjoy Filipino Christmas flicks like Tanging Yaman or Seven Sundays. Expect heartwarming stories, plenty of laughs, and all the Christmas feels.
12. Visit the Christmas Lights at Ayala Triangle Gardens
If you love Christmas lights (and who doesn’t?), a trip to Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati is a must. The Christmas light show set to festive tunes is a spectacular way to get into the holiday spirit.
13. Go Ice Skating at SM Megamall
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Well, in the Philippines, it’s all about ice skating! Head to SM Megamall and glide across the rink while checking out the mall’s amazing holiday displays.
14. Attend the Manila Ocean Park Christmas Show
Get aquatic with your Christmas cheer! The Manila Ocean Park’s Christmas show features dazzling lights, festive sea creatures, and interactive activities. It’s a splash of holiday fun for the whole family!
15. Explore Christmas Light Displays at Venice Grand Canal
For a magical Christmas experience, visit the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig. With its spectacular Christmas lights and boat rides through the canals, it’s like stepping into a festive winter wonderland.
16. Join the Christmas Parades
From Cebu’s Kahayag Festival to San Fernando’s Paskuhan Village, Filipino Christmas parades are an absolute blast. Floats, performers, and festive fun await—get in the spirit and join the fun!
17. Attend a Christmas Eve Mass at Cebu’s Basilica del Santo Niño
For a truly special Filipino Christmas experience, attend Misa de Gallo at Cebu’s Basilica del Santo Niño. The church’s beauty and the spirit of the service will make it a moment you’ll never forget.
18. Visit Paskuhan Village in San Fernando, Pampanga
Pampanga, the Philippines’ culinary capital, knows how to celebrate Christmas. Check out Paskuhan Village for stunning lantern displays and scrumptious local delicacies. It’s a feast for your eyes and your stomach!
19. Explore the Greenhills Christmas Market
Greenhills is the perfect spot to find unique Christmas ornaments, handmade gifts, and delicious Filipino snacks. Get your shopping game on, or just soak in the festive atmosphere.
20. Take a Christmas Day Dip in the Beach
Trade snow for sand this Christmas! Whether you’re in Boracay, Palawan, or Cebu, a beach Christmas is a tropical twist you won’t forget.
21. Enjoy the Pasko sa Intramuros in Manila
Take a romantic stroll through the historic Intramuros district in Manila, beautifully lit up for the holidays. Explore Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, or just enjoy the charm of the cobblestone streets during the season of joy.
22. Try Filipino Christmas Cocktails
For a local twist on your Christmas cocktails, try lambanog (coconut spirit) or sago’t gulaman (a sweet drink with tapioca pearls). Cheers to Filipino-style holiday drinks!
23. Cook Your Own Filipino Christmas Feast
Want to experience Filipino Christmas food in its full glory? Gather your loved ones and cook up a storm with traditional dishes like pancit palabok and kare-kare. It’s a great way to bond and fill your home with the smell of festive food.
24. Decorate Your Home with Filipino Christmas Décor
No Filipino Christmas is complete without decorating your home. Along with the parol, add some belen (nativity scenes) and bamboo Christmas trees for that unmistakable Filipino vibe.
25. Enjoy the ‘Christmas Eve Countdown’ at Luneta
Join thousands at Luneta Park in Manila for the Christmas Eve countdown. Sing carols, watch fireworks, and celebrate the joy of Christmas under the stars with friends and strangers alike.
26. Celebrate Christmas with a Filipino Family
The best way to experience Filipino Christmas? Celebrate with a local family! Enjoy the food, the laughter, and the genuine warmth that makes Filipino Christmases so special.
27. Take a Trip to Vigan for a Heritage Christmas
For a more heritage-filled Christmas, head to Vigan in Ilocos Sur. With its preserved Spanish-era architecture and charming Christmas lights, it feels like stepping into a holiday postcard.
28. Visit Christmas Villages
Filipinos go all-out with their Christmas decorations. Check out Christmas villages like Policarpio Street in Mandaluyong or Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati for an unforgettable light show.
29. Exchange Gifts with Monito Monita
Monito Monita is like Secret Santa, but with a Filipino flair. Exchange small, themed gifts over several days and end with a grand reveal. It’s a fun way to spread holiday cheer.
30. Sing Your Heart Out in a Christmas Karaoke Party
If you’re not singing Christmas carols at a Filipino karaoke party, are you even celebrating? Bonus points if you can belt out Christmas in Our Hearts like a true Filipino.
31. Attend a Christmas Bazaar
Looking for unique gifts or yummy treats? Filipino Christmas bazaars are the place to be. Greenhills and Circuit Makati are fan favorites.
32. Attend a Family Reunion
The Filipino Christmas party experience is next level! From parlor games to endless food, these reunions are legendary.
33. Participate in a Barangay Christmas Parade
Barangays all over the Philippines hold Christmas parades with floats, costumes, and even Santa on a tricycle. It’s a heartwarming display of community spirit.
34. Play Filipino Party Games
Who doesn’t love a good pabitin or palayok game? These classic Filipino party games are guaranteed to bring out the laughs and create unforgettable memories.
35. Shop at Divisoria for Affordable Christmas Finds
Want to score amazing Christmas deals? Divisoria is the go-to spot for budget-friendly gifts. Just bring your best haggling skills!
36. Reflect and Give Back to the Community
The Filipino Christmas season is all about giving back. Volunteer at a local charity or donate toys to those in need. It’s the perfect way to make your holiday even more meaningful.
A Filipino Christmas is a magical blend of tradition, joy, and lots of delicious food. Whether you’re soaking in the sights, savoring the treats, or spending time with loved ones, there’s no better way to celebrate the season. Ready to make your own Filipino Christmas Holiday Bucket List? Let the festivities begin!
