15 Fun Things to Do in the Philippines During the "Ber" Months: Embrace the Holiday Spirit!
The "Ber" months in the Philippines—September, October, November, and December—mark the most festive time of the year. As soon as September hits, the air fills with anticipation of Christmas, lights twinkle on homes, and holiday tunes start playing in malls. If you’re looking for activities that capture the true essence of the "Ber" months, here are 15 fun and exciting things you can do in the Philippines to make the most of the holiday season!
1. Visit Christmas Bazaars and Markets
Christmas bazaars pop up everywhere in the "Ber" months, offering a wide variety of goods from local crafts to delicious holiday treats. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or simply browsing, bazaars are a great place to soak in the festive atmosphere while supporting local businesses.
2. Attend Simbang Gabi
The traditional "Simbang Gabi" or Misa de Gallo, a series of nine dawn masses leading up to Christmas, is an essential part of Filipino culture during the holidays. This centuries-old tradition is often accompanied by delicious Filipino street food like bibingka and puto bumbong outside churches.
3. Plan a Staycation in Tagaytay or Baguio
The cooler months make Tagaytay and Baguio the perfect getaway spots. With a chilly breeze and picturesque landscapes, these destinations are ideal for enjoying the holiday season. Make sure to sip on hot chocolate while admiring the view of Taal Volcano or take a stroll through Burnham Park.
4. Christmas Light Displays
Throughout the Philippines, you’ll find dazzling Christmas light displays. Cities like Makati, San Fernando in Pampanga, and even private homes put up elaborate light shows that will surely spark the holiday spirit. The Festival of Lights at Ayala Triangle is one not to miss!
5. Indulge in Filipino Christmas Food
Nothing says the "Ber" months like indulging in traditional Filipino Christmas food. From lechon to hamon, queso de bola, and holiday desserts like buko salad, there’s a feast waiting at every corner. Make a food trip out of it and try dishes from different provinces.
6. Attend a Parol-Making Workshop
The parol, a star-shaped lantern, is a symbol of Filipino Christmas. Many communities offer parol-making workshops during the "Ber" months, where you can create your own lantern. This is a fun and creative way to immerse yourself in local culture while making a personalized holiday decoration.
7. Experience Paskuhan Village in San Fernando
If you’re looking to fully embrace the Christmas spirit, a trip to San Fernando’s Paskuhan Village, known as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines," is a must. The annual Giant Lantern Festival is a breathtaking display of artistry and craftsmanship.
8. Explore the Cultural Heritage of Vigan
As the holidays approach, Vigan in Ilocos Sur transforms into a magical place with its cobblestone streets and colonial houses adorned with Christmas lights. Take a calesa ride and explore the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
9. Go on a Christmas-Themed Road Trip
Take a road trip across different provinces known for their grand Christmas celebrations. From San Fernando’s lanterns to Cavite’s Belenismo (Nativity scene displays), there’s so much to see as you drive through towns that celebrate the holidays in their unique way.
10. Host a Virtual Christmas Party
If you’re unable to gather in person, hosting a virtual Christmas party can still bring the holiday spirit to life. Prepare some Noche Buena favorites, set up festive Zoom backgrounds, and plan fun online games like charades or karaoke with friends and family.
11. Decorate Your Home with a Filipino Christmas Theme
Spruce up your home with traditional Filipino Christmas decorations. Aside from parols, you can incorporate handwoven decorations, indigenous materials, and native textiles to give your home a festive and uniquely Filipino feel.
12. Go on a Food Crawl in Pampanga
Known as the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines," Pampanga is a haven for food lovers, especially during the "Ber" months. From tamales and sisig to decadent Christmas dishes like morcon and tibok-tibok, your tastebuds are in for a treat!
13. Join Charity and Outreach Events
The "Ber" months are the perfect time to give back. Join charity events, volunteer in feeding programs, or donate gifts to those in need. Many organizations and churches organize outreach activities, making it easy to spread joy and kindness this season.
14. Watch a Christmas Concert or Play
Various malls and cultural centers host Christmas concerts and plays during the "Ber" months. From local artists performing carols to Christmas-themed theater productions, there’s plenty of entertainment to enjoy with your family.
15. Experience New Year’s Eve in the Philippines
Wrap up the "Ber" months by experiencing the unique way Filipinos celebrate New Year's Eve. With a mix of fireworks, parties, and traditional "media noche" feasts, it’s the perfect way to close out the year with a bang!
The "Ber" months in the Philippines are filled with warmth, celebration, and joy. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are countless activities to enjoy during this festive season. From Christmas bazaars to parol-making, these months bring out the best of Filipino culture and hospitality. Be sure to plan ahead and make the most of the holidays with this list of things to do in the Philippines during the "Ber" months!
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