The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country, so the celebration of Christmas is a big deal! There are many traditions that are unique to the Philippines, such as the "parol," which is a lantern made of bamboo and colored paper that symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem. The parol is hung in homes and businesses, and is lit during the Christmas season to honor the birth of Jesus. Another tradition is the "simbang gabi," which is a series of nine dawn masses that are held from December 16th to the 24th.