The world anticipates Christmas eve in less than a week, but in the Philippines, the Christmas celebration does not only start and ends on December 25.
Filipinos prepare and celebrate Christmas way longer compared to other countries. After all, the Philippines is acknowledged as the country with the longest Christmas celebration.
Beginning in August, we can see several social media memes of the singer, songwriter, and “Mr. Christmas” Jose Mari Chan peeking.
Jose Mari Chan became a national icon for Christmas carols because playing his song “Christmas in Our Hearts” is a hint for the Christmas Season.
Several houses and establishments are decorating for Christmas as early as September, while some do it after the All Souls Day every November 2.
Some people are starting to buy Christmas gifts in November to prevent the holiday rush. Christmas sales and vouchers are also being offered.
Many restaurants, private resorts, and other events places are being reserved for Christmas parties. Workers, students, organization members, and families are already planning and rehearsing for Christmas party performances.
Christmas parties are everywhere in December. Feasts are not only done on Christmas day but also on numerous December dates because of several parties held, most especially this week– less than a week before Christmas eve.
Online searches of party game ideas and Christmas Party performances can also dominate your online algorithm.
There are also long lines in banks, not just to withdraw the Christmas bonus, but also to get pieces of 20 or 50-peso bills for the kids, or party game prizes.
Mall hours are extended because of the holiday rush, and last-minute gift shopping. Receiving parcels from online shopping is taking longer than usual because of the high number of customers and bulk deliveries.
You may hear people singing in karaoke everywhere during this month. You may also hear children singing Christmas carolings in front of houses in neighborhoods, while others are posting their QR codes for e-money pamasko.
Christmas spirit is always in Filipinos’ hearts but let us not forget the true purpose of Christmas that aside from parties and gift-giving, the Christmas celebration celebrates Christ’s birth. We may join the nine-day Novena, attend the Christmas holy mass, and give thanks to the Lord.
Photo courtesy from Jun Pinzon
