INFOGRAPHIC: Hungry holidays: The Filipino Noche Buena

In the Philippines, celebrations are synonymous with food.

Strictly speaking, Noche Buena is a catch-all term for Christmas Eve. This includes the traditions such as the Misa de Gallo (Christmas Eve Mass) and Panunuluyan, which reenacts Joseph and Mary’s journey to the stable. But in an increasingly diverse and urban Philippines, one thing remains constant: food.

Filipino families from every economic background like to celebrate Noche Buena with a special meal. But the spirit of Noche Buena is less about quantity and more about the family time and conversations held over a meal. Simple dishes become special with the right company!

What’s your Noche Buena like? —CM, GMA News