Christmas In The Philippines by Joanne Valenzuela

“Pasko” is the Filipino term for Christmas. In the Philippines, the Christmas celebration begins as soon as the calendar enters the “-ber months.” Christmas is a time for Filipinos to express their love for God and family, relationships, creativity, and food. When the “-ber months” begin, the streets light up with the traditional Filipino Christmas décor called the parol—beautiful lanterns that showcase Filipino creativity. Various kakanin or rice-based desserts are sold along the streets, and music in every home and public establishment fills the air, amplifying the festive season.

Every year, there is a celebration in the Philippines—specifically in Pampanga—called the Lantern Festival. Each barangay works together to create its own giant lantern, which is then showcased during the festival. The lights of these giant lanterns move in sync with the rhythm of the music, reflecting the culture and values of the barangay that created them. People from all over the world come to witness this festival.

Churches begin gathering from December 16 to December 24 for nightly worship services, a tradition in the Philippines known as Simbang Gabi. On December 25, usually at around 5:00 in the morning, most churches hold a special service where families come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Christmas in the Philippines is a time to share—a time to light up every corner not only with lanterns and Christmas lights but also through gestures of kindness and love that flow from a spirit of generosity, especially among Christians. Christmas in the Philippines is also a time to sing together. One of the most famous Filipino Christmas songs, written and sung by Jose Mari Chan, is “Christmas in Our Hearts.” This song beautifully describes how Filipinos celebrate Christmas and is played as soon as the calendar strikes the first day of September. Here is the first stanza and chorus:

Whenever I see boys and girls selling lanterns on the street

I remember the child in a manger as He sleeps

Whenever there are people giving gifts, exchanging cards

I believe that Christmas is truly in their hearts

Let’s light our Christmas tree for a bright tomorrow

Where the nations are at peace and all are one in God.

*Let’s sing merry Christmas and a happy holiday

This season may we never forget the love we have for Jesus

Let Him be the One to guide us as another new year starts

And may the spirit of Christmas be always in our hearts.

Christmas in the Philippines is unlike any other celebration in the world—an unforgettable blend of early festivities, deep faith, vibrant creativity, and overflowing generosity. From glowing parols and grand lantern festivals to heartfelt worship and joyful songs that begin months before December, Filipinos transform the season into a living expression of hope and togetherness. It is a Christmas where community becomes family, tradition becomes art, and faith becomes a daily celebration—making “Pasko” in the Philippines a truly unique and heartwarming experience for all who witness it.