Celebrating New Year far from home

As the world ushers in another year, the vibrant spirit of the celebration transcends borders, resonating deeply within the hearts of overseas Filipino workers in different parts of the world.

The New Year celebration, however, sometimes comes with a bittersweet pang for Filipinos across the globe as they are far away from their loved ones in the Philippines.

For them, the joyous countdown is tinged with a longing for the familiar laughter and the comforting chaos of family reunions. Yet, these OFWs can weave their threads of tradition and resilience, crafting unique ways to celebrate under distant skies.

Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Filipino communities in several parts of North America — in Canada and the United States — unite to welcome the New Year in a way that encapsulates the essence of their rich heritage and distracts them from their homesickness.

For most OFWs, the countdown to the New Year begins weeks in advance with meticulous planning for gatherings, feasts, and the incorporation of beloved Filipino customs.

A feast for the senses

The essence of any Filipino gathering lies in the food — a rich symphony of flavors and aromas that evoke memories of home. One of the most cherished traditions among Filipinos worldwide is the Media Noche. This midnight feast symbolizes hope for prosperity and good fortune in the coming year.

The New Year's Eve table in California homes adorned with traditional delicacies like pancit (noodles), lechon (roast pig), lumpia (spring rolls), and adobo (marinated chicken or pork) reflects the essence of Filipino culinary prowess. Families gather around, sharing laughter and stories while indulging in these savory delights that evoke nostalgia for the Philippines.

"We usually invite our friends who are away from their families during the holidays to our home, so they won't feel lonely while they welcome the new year," Ina Domingo, a 45-year-old caregiver in Los Angeles, California, told DAILY TRIBUNE.

"Some of our friends bring their potluck contributions of traditional Filipino dishes alongside American favorites. Our tables are laden with culinary delights by then," Domingo said.

Pasalubong and balikbayan

boxes: Tokens of love

The tradition of "pasalubong" — gifts from one's travels — is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture. For OFWs, the balikbayan boxes filled with clothes, toys, and delicacies serve as tangible tokens of their love and sacrifice for their families back home.

As the new year approaches, some OFWs send home care packages with material gifts, unwavering affection, and longing for familial connections.

Amelia San Jose, a 48-year-old nurse in Langley, British Columbia, Canada, shared the customs of her eldest child, Amerey, and her childhood friend in the Philippines, Trisha, during the holidays.

"Amerey and Trisha exchange goodies during the holidays, and they have never missed a year," Amelia told the DAILY TRIBUNE.

"Of course, Trisha never forgets to bring Amerey's favorite Filipino snacks that are very expensive here in Canada. Trisha also gives us, Amerey's parents, some goodies, too," Amelia said, adding that both girls have been doing this for the past decade.

New Year's Eve: A fusion of cultures

Domingo and San Jose also shared that Filipinos in Canada and the United States often find solace in the warmth and inclusivity of Catholic churches.

New Year's Eve masses become a beacon of faith and community, a place to find familiar faces and bask in the comfort of shared traditions. After prayers and blessings, Filipinos might gather in nearby restaurants or cafes, exchanging laughter and stories over steaming cups of coffee and decadent desserts.

The absence of fireworks may be compensated for by the twinkling lights of Christmas markets or the charming and cobbled streets adorned with festive decorations, creating a unique and intimate New Year's Eve atmosphere.

Reflection and hope

For many OFWs, the new year is a time of reflection — a moment to reminisce about the year's trials and triumphs. It's a time to set aspirations and dreams for the future, fueling their unwavering determination to strive for a better life while maintaining a solid connection to their roots.

In North America, the new year becomes more than just a date on the calendar — it's a collage of Filipino heritage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of unity.

While they're partying amid fir trees and towering city skylines, OFWs in North America show how awesome it is when different cultures mix and how traditions keep them tight no matter where they are.