Simbang Gabi
Simbang Gabi is traditionally celebrated for this number of consecutive days leading up to Christmas.
What is nine?
This delicacy, served with salted egg and grated coconut, is a staple during Christmas celebrations.
What is bibingka?
Caroling in the Philippines traditionally begins on this day, marking the start of the Christmas spirit.
What is December 16?
This star-shaped Christmas lantern symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem.
What is a parol?
This is the Filipino term for godparents, who are expected to give gifts to their godchildren during Christmas.
What are ninong and ninang?
This term refers to the Filipino belief that completing all nine Simbang Gabi Masses brings blessings.
What is "panata" or devotion?
This purple rice cake, often paired with tea or hot chocolate, is a staple after Simbang Gabi.
What is puto bumbong?
Caroling groups often say this phrase to wish well to households that don’t give any rewards.
What is "Thank you, thank you, ang babait ninyo, thank you"?
The annual Giant Lantern Festival is held in this city, known as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.”
What is San Fernando, Pampanga?
Filipino Christmas celebrations often stretch into this month, a feature unique to the Philippines.
What is January?
Simbang Gabi was introduced to the Philippines by this group of Catholic missionaries.
Who are the Spanish friars?
This type of meat stew, often prepared with raisins and bell peppers, is a Noche Buena staple.
What is morcon?
Caroling songs in the Philippines are often influenced by this genre of music introduced during the Spanish era.
What is rondalla music?
This is the Filipino term for the Nativity scene displayed in homes and churches during Christmas.
What is belen?
During Christmas fiestas, Filipino communities often organize this large communal feast for everyone to enjoy.
What is a boodle fight or potluck?
This the color used for the Misas de Aguinaldo except on those days falling on the Sundays of Easter
What is white?
This rich and creamy Spanish-inspired Christmas dish made with egg yolks and milk is served as a dessert.
What is leche flan?
“Pasko Na Sinta Ko” is a popular holiday kundiman that expresses this kind of longing.
What is romantic longing or yearning?
This Filipino Christmas tradition reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus, often accompanied by singing and a procession.
What is panunuluyan?
This festive Christmas Eve dinner is central to Filipino celebrations.
What is Noche Buena?
The four day of the Misas de Aguinaldo is also called this.
What is Misa Aurea or Golden Mass?
This is a symbol of abundance and is usually served during Noche Buena.
What is hamon?
The popular carol “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit” was originally written in this regional language before being translated to Tagalog.
What is Cebuano?
Parols were originally lit to guide this group of people to the church for early morning Masses.
Who are churchgoers or Simbang Gabi attendees?
Filipino children often receive these monetary gifts placed inside small envelopes during Christmas.
What is aguinaldo or pamasko?