The Mind Blowing Truth Why Filipino Christmas Starts in September

Summary

In this insightful video, the host discusses why Filipinos celebrate Christmas as early as September, marking the start of the 'ber' months. This tradition, rooted in indigenous customs, symbolizes the festive season of rebirth and rebuilding following the typhoon season. The arrival of migratory birds, which help protect crops, coincides with this time, highlighting a deep cultural connection to nature and harvest. The host also reflects on how these traditions have adapted through the introduction of Christianity while emphasizing the Filipino spirit of celebration and community. Viewers are encouraged to share their own holiday traditions in the comments.

Takeaways

• 😀 Filipinos start celebrating Christmas as early as September, marking the beginning of the holiday season.
• 🎶 The Christmas season is recognized with music, including traditional songs like 'Christmas in Our Hearts.'
• 📅 September is the first of the 'ber' months, a term that signifies the countdown to Christmas.
• 🎉 Many Filipinos view early Christmas celebrations as a way to countdown to the significant event on Christmas Eve.
• 💼 Some argue that the early celebration is driven by capitalist motives, aimed at boosting sales and profits.
• 🌾 The early celebration of Christmas is rooted in indigenous traditions, coinciding with agricultural cycles and the arrival of migratory birds.
• 🍚 Traditional foods that are essential for the holiday season, like sticky rice and ube, are harvested during this time.
• 🙏 Historical celebrations coincide with Catholic feasts, showing a blend of indigenous and Christian traditions.
• 🌬️ The season of 'Amihan' or the North Wind is traditionally a time for renewal and celebration in Filipino culture.
• ❤️ Celebrating life and finding reasons to rejoice is an intrinsic part of Filipino identity and culture.

Q & A

Why do Filipinos start celebrating Christmas as early as September?

Filipinos begin celebrating Christmas in September because it marks the start of the 'ber' months, which include September, October, November, and December. This period is seen as the countdown to the Christmas festivities.

What are the 'ber' months?

The 'ber' months refer to the months that end in 'ber,' specifically September, October, November, and December. These months are traditionally associated with the Christmas season in the Philippines.

What traditional Christmas music is commonly played in the Philippines during September?

One of the most popular songs played during the early Christmas season in the Philippines is 'Christmas in Our Hearts' by Jose Mari Chan.

What cultural significance does the early celebration of Christmas have for Filipinos?

The early celebration of Christmas reflects the Filipino tradition of countdowns to significant events and highlights the importance of family and community in their cultural practices.

How do capitalist influences play a role in the early Christmas celebrations?

Some argue that the early start to Christmas celebrations in the Philippines is a marketing strategy to boost sales during the holiday season, allowing businesses to profit from the increased consumer spending.

What are some indigenous roots related to the early Christmas celebrations?

The early celebration coincides with the arrival of the 'Amihan' or Northwind, which historically marked a time of rebirth and rebuilding for the ancestors, ending the typhoon season and allowing for agricultural prosperity.

What traditional foods are associated with the holiday season in the Philippines?

Many traditional holiday foods, such as 'puto bumbong' (a type of rice cake) and 'ube' (purple yam), are grown and harvested during this festive season, showcasing the agricultural abundance of the time.

What does the term 'Amihan' signify in Filipino culture?

In Filipino culture, 'Amihan' refers to the Northwind, which symbolizes the onset of a season that has historically been celebrated for its significance in agriculture and community rebuilding.

How have pre-colonial traditions influenced modern Christmas celebrations in the Philippines?

Many modern Christmas traditions in the Philippines have roots in pre-colonial practices. When Christianity was introduced, many of these traditions adapted and continued, blending indigenous customs with new religious beliefs.

What is the significance of the 'Fiesta of San Nicolas de Tolentino' during this season?

The 'Fiesta of San Nicolas de Tolentino' coincides with the arrival of the sacred birds that signal the start of the festive season, linking cultural celebrations with religious observances.