BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
In just a few hours, it’s Noche Buena!
Families are bustling with excitement, cooking and preparing food to share as they welcome Christmas Day!
Some are eager to open gifts from mom and dad, older siblings, and of course, from godparents.
For the older ones, they’d prefer cash as a gift!
But why do we celebrate Noche Buena on the night of December 24?
Let’s go back to its origins.
Noche Buena is a Spanish term that means “Good Night.”
It typically refers to the evening of December 24, Christmas Eve, when families gather for a grand feast.
This tradition started as part of the religious celebration of Christmas.
Noche Buena was established by Catholics in Spain as a way to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
It’s a time for people to give thanks for being with their families and for the arrival of our Savior.
This tradition was brought to the Philippines by Catholic missionaries during the Spanish colonial period.
These missionaries introduced this celebration to our ancestors as part of spreading Christianity.
Noche Buena holds great significance for Filipinos as it represents more than just celebrating Christmas.
It strengthens family bonds despite life’s challenges, bringing everyone together to celebrate and give thanks for their blessings.
For Filipinos, it’s not just a simple feast; it’s a symbol of love and family unity.
And so, we wish everyone a joyful, meaningful, and love-filled Christmas celebration.
Merry Christmas to us all!
