Christmas in the Philippines is unlike anywhere else in the world. Known for having the longest Christmas season, Filipinos start celebrating as early as September, filling the air with carols, festive decorations, and the spirit of bayanihan that brings communities closer.
Amidst the modern hustle and bustle, there’s a unique charm in revisiting the roots that define Filipino culture, especially through traditional games. This Christmas, why not spice up your holiday parties with a twist on Filipino classics?
Not only do these games promise loads of fun and laughter, but they also offer a nostalgic return to the simple joys of our childhood, making the holiday season even more memorable.
The Essence of Filipino Christmas
Christmas in the Philippines is a vibrant tapestry of traditions and modernity, weaving together a celebration that lasts from the -ber months through the dawn of the New Year. It’s a time when families reunite, friends gather, and everyone seems to be in a perpetual state of joy and generosity.
Central to this celebration are the Simbang Gabi, or night masses leading up to Christmas Day, and the Noche Buena, a grand family feast at midnight on Christmas Eve. Caroling groups of children and adults alike go from house to house, sharing songs of joy and receiving treats or coins in return.
Incorporating traditional Filipino games into Christmas festivities breathes life into our rich cultural heritage, offering a unique way to bond, compete, and laugh together. It’s a nod to a time before digital screens, where entertainment was purely physical and deeply social.
Unique Filipino Games for Your Christmas Party
Tumbang Preso
Game Description: Often played in the streets, Tumbang Preso involves players throwing their slippers to knock down a can positioned in the center of a playing area. One player guards the can while trying to tag others as they retrieve their thrown slippers. It’s a game of agility, strategy, and daring.
Christmas Twist: To add a festive twist, replace the traditional can with a brightly decorated Christmas tin. The guardian could wear a Santa hat, turning them into “Santa Bantay,” adding a delightful thematic element to the game. Prizes for winners could include Christmas goodies, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Patintero
Game Description: Patintero requires a bit of space, where players draw a large rectangle on the ground, divided into several segments. The aim is for the attacking team to cross the grid without being tagged by the defenders. It’s a test of speed, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
Christmas Twist: Imagine playing Patintero under the glow of Christmas lights. Use colorful, blinking lights to outline the playing grid, making the game visually stunning when played in the evening. Christmas music in the background will keep spirits high, whether you’re dodging defenders or cheering from the sidelines.
Taguan (Hide and Seek)
Game Description: A classic game of hide and seek where one player, the “it,” closes their eyes and counts at a base while the others hide. The goal is to find all the hidden players and tag them before they can return to the base.
Christmas Twist: Add a playful twist by incorporating Christmas elements. The seeker could wear a Rudolph nose or a pair of antlers, while hiders could whisper Christmas carols instead of staying silent. This variation adds a layer of challenge and amusement, as the seeker follows the sounds of holiday cheer.
Sipa
Game Description: Sipa is the Filipino version of hacky sack, where players kick a small object, traditionally a washer with colorful threads, keeping it airborne for as long as possible. It’s a game that requires skill, coordination, and grace.
Christmas Twist: Use a small, jingle bell ball for sipa, adding the delightful sound of jingles with each kick. This modification not only brings Christmas spirit into the game but also helps players follow the action by ear, making for a merry and lively competition.
Agawan Base
Game Description: Agawan Base is a competitive and strategic game played between two teams. Each team has its own base, and the objective is to capture the opponent’s base without being tagged. It’s a thrilling game that tests speed, strategy, and teamwork.
Christmas Twist: To make Agawan Base fit for a Christmas party, use two beautifully decorated Christmas trees as bases. This not only adds a festive touch but also makes the stakes feel higher, as players rush to claim the opposing team’s “Christmas tree.” Playing festive music can increase the excitement, with each base capture celebrated with a special Christmas tune.
Incorporating Tradition into Modern Celebrations
In the digital age, where screens often dominate our attention, integrating traditional Filipino games into Christmas celebrations serves as a refreshing departure. These games remind us of the value of face-to-face interaction, physical activity, and the joy of shared experiences.
By including these games in your holiday festivities, you’re not only providing entertainment but also fostering a deeper connection among friends and family. Here are a few tips on how to seamlessly blend these traditional games into your modern Christmas party:
- Create Festive Stations: Set up different areas for each game, complete with decorations, instructions, and any necessary equipment. This allows guests to move from game to game, engaging with each other in various playful scenarios.
- Offer Prizes: Encourage participation with small Christmas-themed prizes. These could be anything from holiday ornaments to homemade cookies, adding an extra layer of incentive and excitement.
- Document the Fun: Capture the moments with photos or a short video. This not only creates lasting memories but also allows those unfamiliar with these games to see them in action, potentially inspiring them to include these traditions in their own celebrations.
- Incorporate Storytelling: Share the history and cultural significance of each game before playing. This educates participants about the rich Filipino heritage and adds depth to the experience.
Closing
As we wrap up our festive journey through traditional Filipino games with a Christmas twist, it’s clear that these activities offer more than just entertainment. They are a bridge to our past, a testament to the richness of Filipino culture, and a way to strengthen bonds during one of the most cherished times of the year.
This Christmas, I encourage you to step away from the usual holiday routine and introduce these unique games into your celebrations. Not only will you be creating unforgettable memories, but you’ll also be paying homage to a heritage that continues to shape our identity as Filipinos.
Embracing these traditional games is a wonderful opportunity to engage with family and friends, promote physical activity, and revel in the joy that comes from shared experiences. Let’s make this Christmas extra special by bringing a piece of our Filipino heritage into our homes and hearts, proving that the best gifts are those that bring us closer together.
As we look forward to celebrating with laughter, competition, and camaraderie, let’s remember the true spirit of Christmas—the joy of giving, the warmth of community, and the love that binds us all. Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon to everyone!
