HOW BIGUEÑOS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS SEASON DURING PANDEMIC IN THE HERITAGE CITY OF VIGAN

Christmas in the Philippines is one of the biggest holidays in the country. The Philippines, one of two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia, celebrates the world's longest Christmas season, with Christmas carols heard as early as September 1 and lasting variously until either Epiphany, the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9, or the Feast of the Santo Niño on the third Sunday of January. The official observance by the Catholic Church in the Philippines is from the first day of Advent until the Feast of the Epiphany on the first Sunday after New Year's Day.

Every year, Filipinos from around the world mark September 1 as the beginning of the countdown to Christmas. This countdown, which spans from September to December, otherwise known as the "Ber months", is one of the most important traditions that make the world's earliest and longest timespan of the Christmas season.

This year's festivities will inevitably be different. On top of a ban on gatherings, and restrictions on church attendance, the economic impact of the coronavirus has left millions without work.

For others, the challenges of 2020 make it especially important to celebrate Christmas, even if the usual shopping sprees and parties are not possible. Celebrating Christmas in the heritage city of Vigan during this pandemic focused on bringing out the artistry and creativity of the Bigueños, showcasing the city’s rich culture, tradition, and heritage, without dampening the city’s fight against Covid-19.

Due to the pandemic, the City Government restricted the public to attend this year’s opening ceremony but instead have them witness it live online through the City’s official Facebook Page.

The giant, glittering Christmas Tree illuminates hope and positivity to every Bigueño and Ilocano, especially during this time of the pandemic.

REFERENCES:

https://www.edmaration.com/2015/10/vigan-unveiling-of-christmas-tree.html

https://tawidnewsmag.com/christmas-in-vigan-city-2018/

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/21/philippines-the-longest-christmas-celebrations-in-the-world-.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_in_the_Philippines

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