Even without snow or pine trees, there's no doubt it's Christmasin the Philippines. Filipino

 Christmas decorations are abundant and beautiful.

The bamboo parol (pah-role), or star lantern, is the symbol

 of Christmas in the Philippines, representing the guiding light,

 the star of Bethlehem. It emits a warmth unparalleled among holiday

 adornments and is unique to the Philippines.

Christmas Eve in the Philippines is one of the traditions most families celebrate. It is a night without sleep and a

continuous celebration moving right into Christmas Day. As December 24th dawns, the last Mass of Simbang Gabi is attended; then preparation begins for Noche Buena, which is a family feast that takes place after midnight.

As everyone begins arriving home after midnight Mass,
the little ones are awakened from their naps.
The food is brought out and the festivities begin.

SIMBANG GABI or MISA DE GALLO,
"midnight mass" or "mass of the rooster"
comes from the Catholic custom
of gathering for celebration of the
Eucharist in the pre-dawn hours of each of the nine days before
Christmas.

PUTO bumbong and bibingka
are two native holiday treats
that are bound to the
pre-drawn Misa de
Aguinaldo, which starts December
16 and is held everyday for
nine days until Christmas
Day.