Christmas in the Philippines is a whole vibe. The joy, the food, the family—it’s an experience that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. As a Filipino who migrated to Chicago in 2008, I can’t help but reminisce about the Christmases I spent back home in Mindoro. But over the years, I’ve learned to celebrate Christmas a little differently here. Don’t get me wrong, I still carry that Filipino Christmas spirit with me, but now, it’s with a Chicago twist.

One of the things I miss most about Christmas in the Philippines is the music. The Philippines has an arsenal of Christmas songs, from the fun, uptempo “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit” to the tear-jerking “Pasko Na Sinta Ko.” Back home, you’d hear these songs everywhere—on the radio, in the malls, and even blaring from the karaoke machines in our neighborhoods. I mean, who wouldn’t want to belt out “Sana Ngayong Pasko” while reminiscing about an ex? It’s like a tradition, right?

Here in Chicago, though, the Christmas music is … well, let’s just say the vibe is a bit different. We get all the classic Western hits like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night,” and, of course, that Mariah Carey song!

Filipinos are the reigning champs of “the longest Christmas celebration” in the world. Back home, Christmas isn’t just on Dec. 25—it starts as soon as the “ber” months begin, and it goes on until Jan. 6. It’s a full-on festival. But even in the United States, I bring the Filipino Christmas spirit with me. I’m not talking about putting up the Christmas tree in early September, but rather keeping that joyful spirit alive for weeks leading up to the big day.

Sandok Challenge

One tradition that we still observe is noche buena. Yes, we still stay up until midnight to greet each other “Merry Christmas!” and share a hearty meal together, just like we did back home. But the real fun comes with the Sandok Challenge! We take a sandok (a Filipino ladle) and use it to scoop up dollar bills—while blindfolded. We always let the youngest in the family go first (sorry, kids!) and, needless to say, the competition can get intense. It’s the perfect way to laugh, bond, and make money out of a Christmas tradition our family has adopted as our own.

This year will be a little different, though. Our son is now in college in California, and while it’s great that he’s doing well, it’s always tough having him so far away. But the best part of Christmas is knowing that he’s coming home to Chicago.

Sure, Christmas in Chicago may not have the same vibe as in the Philippines, but what truly matters is that we’re together. What counts most is that, no matter where I am, as long as I’m with family, it’s the best Christmas I could ask for.

And in the end, that’s what makes Christmas Pasko—wherever you are. Maligayang Pasko sa ating lahat! —CONTRIBUTED INQ

J.R. Basa, a lawyer, migrated to Chicago with his wife, Loise, also a lawyer, and their son David in 2008. The Basas were recently in the Philippines to attend their grand alumni homecoming at the UP College of Law. Their extended family in Illinois include J.R.’s mom and siblings.