What Are the "Ber Months"?
In the Philippines, the term "Ber Months" refers to the last four months of the year: September, October, November, and December. The moment September 1st arrives, an extraordinary transformation sweeps across the archipelago. Christmas music fills the air, decorations appear overnight, and the unmistakable voice of Jose Mari Chan heralds the start of the world's most extended festive season.
This four-month celebration isn't just a quirky cultural habit — it's deeply embedded in Filipino identity. With the Philippines being over 80% Catholic and family bonds being central to the culture, Christmas represents the ultimate expression of faith, togetherness, and joy.
- 🎵 Jose Mari Chan plays everywhere
- 🎄 Trees start going up
- ⭐ Parols appear in stores
- 🛍️ Christmas sales begin
- 🏠 Home decorating intensifies
- 🎁 Gift planning starts
- 🎪 Early Christmas events
- 💡 Lights go up on houses
- 🎉 Office Christmas parties
- 🛒 Gift shopping peaks
- 🎶 Carolers start rounds
- ✈️ OFWs book flights home
- ⛪ Simbang Gabi (Dec 16-24)
- 🍽️ Noche Buena feasts
- 👨👩👧👦 Family reunions
- 🎊 New Year celebrations
The Jose Mari Chan Phenomenon
No Filipino Christmas is complete without the velvet voice of Jose Mari Chan. His 1990 hit "Christmas in Our Hearts" has become the unofficial anthem of the Ber Months. The moment September arrives, memes flood social media showing Chan "emerging" to signal the season's start.
Radio stations, malls, restaurants, and jeepneys all start playing his songs simultaneously on September 1st. For many Filipinos abroad, hearing those opening notes instantly transports them home.
Key Filipino Christmas Traditions
⛪ Simbang Gabi
Nine Dawn Masses
From December 16-24, devout Catholics attend early morning masses (between 3-5 AM). Completing all nine masses is believed to grant your Christmas wish. Afterward, churchgoers enjoy bibingka (rice cake) and puto bumbong (purple rice cakes) from vendors outside.
The final mass on Christmas Eve is called Misa de Gallo ("Rooster's Mass"), referencing the rooster said to have crowed on the night of Jesus's birth.
⭐ Parol Lanterns
The Star of Bethlehem
The parol is an iconic Filipino Christmas lantern, traditionally star-shaped to represent the Star of Bethlehem. Originally made from bamboo and Japanese paper with a candle inside, modern parols use plastic and LED lights.
The city of San Fernando, Pampanga is known as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines" for its spectacular Giant Lantern Festival, featuring parols up to 20 feet in diameter.
🍽️ Noche Buena
Christmas Eve Feast
The most important meal of the year happens after Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Families gather for a lavish spread including:
- Lechon (whole roasted pig)
- Ham and queso de bola (Edam cheese)
- Pancit (noodles for long life)
- Fruit salad and leche flan
Gifts are opened at midnight, with celebrations continuing until dawn.
✈️ OFW Homecoming
The Great Return
Over 10 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) live abroad to support their families. Christmas is often the only time they can return home, making it extraordinarily meaningful.
Remittances spike dramatically during the Ber Months, and airports become emotional reunions. This deep longing for family reunion partially explains why the celebration stretches so long — maximizing precious time together.
When to Put Up Your Christmas Tree in the Philippines
🗓️ The Short Answer
September 1st is the officially-unofficial start date. Many families have their trees up and decorated by the first weekend of September. Unlike other countries where early decorating might draw raised eyebrows, in the Philippines it's celebrated and expected!
That said, there's flexibility within Filipino households:
- September 1st: The enthusiastic early birds (and proud of it!)
- First week of September: Most common timing
- After All Saints' Day (November 1): Those who prefer a shorter season
- December 1st: The rare "traditionalists"
The tree typically stays up until the Feast of the Three Kings (first Sunday after January 1, between January 2-8) or even until Candlemas on February 2nd in more traditional households.
Why Does Christmas Start So Early in the Philippines?
Several cultural and historical factors contribute to this extended celebration:
1. Deep Catholic Roots
As one of only two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia (along with Timor-Leste), the Philippines places enormous significance on celebrating Christ's birth. The season isn't just commercial — it's deeply spiritual.
2. Family-Centered Culture
With strong family bonds (bayanihan spirit) and many relatives working overseas, Filipinos treasure every moment of togetherness. A longer season means more time for reunions, gatherings, and shared joy.
3. Psychological Countdown
Sociologist Clifford Sorita explains that Filipinos use the Ber Months as a "psychological time clock" — a way to count down and prepare for the biggest celebration of the year. The anticipation itself becomes part of the joy.
4. Resilience and Optimism
Despite facing natural disasters, economic challenges, and hardships, Filipinos are known for their resilient spirit. The extended Christmas season represents hope, faith, and the determination to celebrate life's blessings.
5. It's Just More Fun!
As the Philippine tourism slogan says, "It's more fun in the Philippines." Why limit joy to just December when you can spread it across four months?