Philippines Christmas has earned the distinction of celebrating the world's longest Christmas season,with Christmas carols are heard as early as September and the season lasting up until January.
During Christmas time, belen are commonly seen in most Catholic and Protestant churches, homes, and buildings. In the Philippines, giant Belen displays have become popular attractions in shopping centers , malls,etc.
The Belen is a wonderful Christmas tradition in the Philippines. It is a clear depiction of the Nativity scene when Jesus Christ was born. Its most basic characters are Jesus Christ as an infant, Mary, and Joseph. However, it also often includes barn animals and the Three Magis (a.k.a. Three Wisemen) who paid Him homage.
Belen in Tarlac, Philippines that has won first place as best Belen in the province for two consecutive years (2007-2008). This is their entry for Christmas 2009. Buses stop in front of the Belen for a few seconds to allow their passengers a glimpse of the life-size display. The traditional Filipino Christmas lantern (parol) is also often part of the Belen. It represents the Star of Bethlehem that lead the Three Magis journey to find the King.
Belen in Tarlac, Philippines that has won first place as best Belen in the province for two consecutive years (2007-2008). This is their entry for Christmas 2009. Buses stop in front of the Belen for a few seconds to allow their passengers a glimpse of the life-size display. The traditional Filipino Christmas lantern (parol) is also often part of the Belen. It represents the Star of Bethlehem that lead the Three Magis journey to find the King.
