In the Philippines, Christmas Eve, also known as 'Bisperas ng Pasko', is often celebrated with a midnight feast called 'Noche Buena'. This feast is a big family event which is an integral part of holiday celebrations. The dishes served often vary from family to family, but traditional foods include lechon (roast pig), ham, fruit salad, and rice cakes.
The celebration of Christmas Eve in the Philippines also includes the 'Simbang Gabi' or 'Night Mass' tradition. This is a series of nine pre-dawn masses, beginning on December 16 and culminating with the Misa de Gallo or 'Rooster's Mass' on Christmas Eve. Families attend these masses as a sign of reverence and commitment to faith, with the belief that completing these nine masses will have a wish granted.
Additionally, Philippine Christmas Eve celebrations are characterized by the display of beautiful and vibrant 'parols' or Christmas lanterns, a distinctly Filipino decoration. On this night, children often perform the 'Panunuluyan', a reenactment of Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. Christmas Eve in the Philippines thus merges culinary delights, spiritual devotion, and cultural performances in its celebration.