Belen(a creche or nativity scene) can be seen in homes, churches, schools and even office buildings. The ones on office buildings can be extravagant, using different materials for the figures and using Christmas lights, parols, and painted background scenery.




Simbang Gabi(a series of nine masses) mostly Catholics,Filipino's begin a novena on December 16th.  Filipinos go to church at four o’clock in the morning and afterward have breakfast together. A traditional drink during this season is a warm ginger tea called salabat and a traditional treat is a flat but thick yellow rice cake called bibingka  not just at home but on almost every corner.On every block, especially the ones close to churches, there are food stands or stalls of these Pinoy Christmas goodies. And in the country side, a band might even play Christmas carols; medleys to awaken people and lure them to attend the service. On Christmas Eve, the final Christmas mass is celebrated with much ceremony, color and lights.