Living in the Philippines, one cannot help but feel the excitement building up as Christmas approaches. The Christmas air is everywhere, signaling the arrival of this joyous season. Filipinos embrace the holiday spirit from when September hits and the “Ber Months” begin. Our country is known for having one of the world’s longest and most festive Christmas seasons, often starting as early as September and extending until January.

What do you think are the common indications that Christmas is coming? Aside from the Christmas songs played in malls, the Christmas lights, and countdowns. What else are there?

Here are the telltale signs that the Christmas season has started in the Philippines:

1. “Ber” Months: Filipinos often say that the Christmas season officially starts once the months with “ber” in their names begin—September, October, November, and December.
2. Radio and TV Stations, Malls: Radio stations start playing Christmas songs early in September. 
3. Christmas Decorations: Malls, streets, and public spaces create elaborate Christmas decorations, including lights, giant Christmas trees, and lanterns called “parols.”
4. Night Markets and Bazaars: Night markets and bazaars offering Christmas goods, decorations, and gifts become prevalent in many areas.
5. Christmas Countdowns: TV programs, radio shows, and online platforms start counting the days to Christmas.
6. Sales and Promotions: Stores and malls offer special sales, promotions, and discounts in anticipation of the holiday shopping rush.
7. Christmas-Themed TV Shows and Movies: Filipino television networks start airing Christmas-themed shows, movies, and soap operas during this time.
8. Nativity Displays: Nativity scenes (Belens) are displayed in churches, homes, and public places, depicting the birth of Jesus.
9. Holiday Traffic or the Christmas Rush: As the season progresses, you’ll notice increased traffic and larger crowds in malls and shopping centers due to the holiday preparations and gatherings.
10. Christmas Parties: Offices, schools, and organizations plan Christmas parties, gatherings, and events.
11. Food Preparations: Traditional Filipino Christmas foods like bibingka, puto bumbong, and lechon become more available in markets and food stalls.

Living in the Philippines means being surrounded by signs of Christmas coming. From September’s “Ber Months” to November’s parols and December’s festive atmosphere, our country embraces the spirit of Christmas like no other.

Are there other signs that make you feel and realize Christmas is coming? Share them with us! Comment them below.