Do you yearn for the spirit of Christmas? Search no longer, because Simbang Gabi is here to help make this season extra special! Celebrated all over the Philippines, Simbang Gabi is an age-old tradition that signifies hope for a hopeful and prosperous new year. By joining us in many commercial and residential areas throughout the country, you’ll be able to experience a one-of-a-kind gathering with family and friends that will last long after the festivities have ended.
With festivities spread across churches and chapels, it’s a magical time of year guaranteed to put festive cheer in your air. From traditional Filipino choirs singing Christmas carols at Ateneo de Manila University in Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City to the mesmerizing lighting of campus decorations at the University of Santo Tomas in Sampaloc, Manila, there’s something spectacular for everybody.
This centuries-old tradition has its roots in Spanish colonialism. During the 16th century, when Christianity was first introduced to the Philippines by Spanish missionaries, they wanted to make their services more accessible to Filipinos who had to get up at dawn or before sunrise to tend their farms and rice paddies. As a result of this effort, Simbang Gabi was born, with it the beloved tradition of attending mass for nine consecutive days before Christmas.
Simbang Gabi is celebrated in many churches, including Baclaran Church in Parañaque City, Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned in Marikina City, Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Tagaytay, and Quiapo Church in Manila.
Enjoy traditional Filipino choirs singing carols while you’re greeted with spectacular decorations and lights at Ateneo de Manila University’s Simbang Gabi sa Gesú.
And get a unique twist on your Simbang Gabi experience at the University of Santo Tomas’ Christmas Concert and Lighting of Campus Decorations.
Take a trip to Makati and experience SM Supermalls’ holiday festivities. Spend some time with loved ones reflecting on the season by visiting famous chapels like The Chapel of Sacred Heart of Jesus in Rockwell Center, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls – St John Paul II Parish in Eastwood City Bagumbayan Quezon City, St Gabriel The Archangel Chapel 4F Uptown Mall Taguig or Saint Raphael’s Church 3F Venice Grand Canal in McKinley Hill.
Throughout these 9 nights of merrymaking, there’s something for everyone to take part in! From activities perfect for kids to soulful music filled with joyous tunes from the past, the events are designed to give everyone the chance to express their festive spirit while they form bonds with other revelers. Best of all, people can enjoy authentic dinner menus filled with cuisine loved by locals — dishes such as puto bungbong, suman, bibingka, and more!
It’s no exaggeration when we say these 9 days offer something magical for everyone to behold. So don’t miss out on this energetic feast – come celebrate today!
