Christmas light, Christmas tree, Belen, snowman, santa claus and reindeers. Spaghetti, cake, ham, barbeque and ice cream. Christmas carols, gifts, Noche Buena and “Simbang Gabi”. These are the things Filipinos thought of when Christmas is approaching.
After the Halloweens, people were busy putting decorations all over the place. A Christmas tree with a star on the top was often the center of attraction. A big “parol” and poinsettia were present, too. Filipinos were very creative on putting up decorations for the Christmas season.
Buying presents for all of their loves ones was always on the list. Toys for the children, clothes and sweets. Big or small, with ribbons and cards, gifts are placed under the Christmas tree, waiting to be open for the Christmas hoping it was their wish.
Children were making musical instruments from used bottle caps, cans, and sticks. To be used for Christmas carols to sing within the neighborhood. “Sa may bahay ang aming bati. Merry Christmas na maluwalhati”, is what you’ll hear, from children who’s hoping for “aginaldo”.
“Misa de Gallo” or “Simbang Gabi”, was one of the things family, especially the teens, was waiting for during Christmas season. It was a nine night or dawn of mass, that when you’ve complete, will grant you a wish. And after every mass “puto bumbong” was waiting.
Mommies were busy making list of what to cook for the Christmas Eve. Noche Buena, for Filipinos, was like fiesta. Foods and drinks were spread on the table, to be shared by the family as the time for Christmas approach.
