2023-12-14 23:05:35
The Christmas season in the Philippines begins in September – including the associated decorations and music. The Asian island kingdom has the longest Christmas season in the world.
From December 16th, masses will be held in the early morning hours for nine days. The tradition is called Simbang Gabi (English night mass) and dates back to the Spanish colonial period. Tradition says that God grants a wish to those who attend all early masses during the novena. An important part of the Christmas decorations are star-shaped lanterns, called paról, which are believed to date from the time when they lit the way for believers into church and to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem.
There is no Advent in the Philippines and therefore no Advent wreath with four candles, but there are large wreaths with up to 20 candles.
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