Yes, it’s a real thing.
Twixmas, a delightful blend of "betwixt" and "Christmas," captures the essence of those serene days nestled between the grandeur of Christmas and the jubilation of the New Year. It’s the gentle lull, the quiet pause, amidst the festive fervor.
It’s a portmanteau, a linguistic suitcase merging sounds and meanings. Much like the French "porte" (to carry) and "manteau" (cloak), words like email (electronic and mail), brunch (breakfast and lunch), and staycation (stay and vacation) seamlessly combine to form something entirely new.
Pasko in the Philippines
In Filipino and most Philippine languages, “Pasko” means Christmas. It comes from the Spanish phrase “pascua de navidad” meaning “Easter of the Nativity.”
The holiday lull prompted a journey into Filipino Christmas customs and how these are also blended from traditions around the world. Click on links for more information or subscribe to our YouTube channel.
The Parol, or Christmas Lantern, brightens the atmosphere with its bamboo and Japanese paper craftsmanship. Originating from the Spanish "farol," meaning lantern or light, these festive symbols illuminate homes, schools, and establishments, blending Filipino creativity with Spanish influence.
Ligligan Parul - Festival of Lights
In San Fernando, Pampanga, the Ligligan Parul Giant Lantern Festival dazzles with enormous, intricately designed lanterns spanning up to 30 feet. These giant lanterns don't just stand still; they perform a mesmerizing "dance of lights," turning the night into a visual spectacle.
Simbang Gabi, a series of nine pre-dawn Masses, encapsulates Filipino devotion. Yes, you read that right — 9 Catholic Masses at 4 or 4:30 in the morning! Originating from the Spanish colonial period, this tradition begins on December 16 and culminates in the “Misa de Gallo” or "Rooster's Mass" on Christmas Eve.
Christmas Desserts - Culinary Delights
Simbang Gabi isn't just about the Mass; it's a cultural experience! Vendors offer Christmas Desserts outside churches, creating a festive atmosphere. My favorite is the tsokolate or dark hot chocolate, served with pan de sal or Filipino breakfast roll.
Tapestry of Christmas Traditions
What’s interesting is that Christmas itself is also a blending of traditions.
The celebration of Christmas was established around the time of the winter solstice to coincide with existing pagan festive traditions. The result is a holiday that incorporates a diverse range of customs, rituals, festivals, and symbolic activities meant to welcome the return of the sun and the promise of longer days.
Wishing You a Radiant Holiday Season
Whether celebrating the coming of the sun or the Son, here's to a radiant holiday season filled with joy and warmth.
In the spirit of portmanteaus, we bid adieu with the timeless phrase "Goodbye," blending the words "God be with ye."