Simbang Gabi is fast approaching. The scent of puto bumbong and bibingka once again fills the air, while the cool December breeze signals the return of one of the Philippines’ most cherished Christmas traditions.

Traditionally, Simbang Gabi is a series of nine dawn masses celebrated from December 16 to 24. Devotees wake up before sunrise to attend mass, believing that completing all nine days can grant a special wish. For many Filipinos, it has long been a ritual shared with family, friends, and loved ones—an expression of faith, sacrifice, and togetherness.

Before the pandemic, churches across the country were filled to capacity during Simbang Gabi, with worshippers lining up as early as 3 a.m. The tradition was as much about community as it was about devotion, often followed by shared breakfasts and warm holiday treats outside church grounds.

In recent years, however, Simbang Gabi has evolved. During the pandemic, churches began live-streaming masses to ensure the faithful could still participate despite restrictions. That shift has endured, allowing people to attend Simbang Gabi remotely—from their homes, workplaces, or even from overseas—making the tradition more accessible than ever.

What makes Simbang Gabi even more unique today is its celebration in historic and culturally significant churches, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among these is San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a centerpiece of the UNESCO-listed Baroque Churches of the Philippines. Attending Simbang Gabi here offers worshippers a rare experience of faith within centuries-old walls.

Other UNESCO-recognized churches where Simbang Gabi is observed include Paoay Church (St. Augustine Church) in Ilocos Norte, known for its massive buttresses and earthquake-resistant design, and Miag-ao Church in Iloilo, famed for its fortress-like façade adorned with intricate bas-reliefs that blend Catholic and local imagery. These heritage churches turn Simbang Gabi into more than a religious tradition—it becomes a journey through Filipino history, architecture, and culture.

Beyond UNESCO sites, many Simbang Gabi masses are also held in churches located in declared heritage zones and historic districts, adding another layer of meaning to the experience. Worshipping in these spaces reminds devotees of the deep roots of Catholicism in the Philippines and how faith has endured across generations.

This year, whether you choose to wake up early and attend mass in a historic church, experience Simbang Gabi in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or join through a live-stream from home, the tradition continues to adapt while remaining deeply spiritual. Simbang Gabi stands as a testament to Filipino faith—timeless, resilient, and ever-evolving.

As dawn breaks and church bells ring, Filipinos everywhere once again gather, in person or online, to begin the countdown to Christmas—nine mornings of devotion, hope, and quiet reflection that define the season.