Spectacular Philippines Christmas festival returns to Darling Harbour
The popular Philippine Pasko (Christmas) Festival, sponsored by the Philippine Department of Tourism, is returning to Darling Harbour on 16 and 17 November.
The vibrant and fun-packed two-day event will transform Tumbalong Park and bring traditional Filipino celebrations, food, and entertainment to the heart of Sydney, from 10am to 10pm on Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sunday. The event is free to enter for all guests.
With the Philippines renowned for some of the longest Christmas celebrations in the world, typically featuring month-long festivals held all over the country, this weekend’s spectacular offers Sydneysiders an authentic taste of traditional Filipino warmth and hospitality, community-spiritedness, and fun festive activities.
“With the event attracting huge crowds in recent years, we’re so excited to see the event return for a 7th year running,” Philippine Department of Tourism director, Pura Molintas, said. “Whether you are part of Sydney’s Filipino community, or simply keen to soak up some of the many authentic cultural entertainments taking place, visiting Tumbalong Park this weekend will be a great way to experience what Christmas in the Philippines is all about.”
Guests can soak up traditional craftsmanship by witnessing the annual Parol Lantern Contest. A Parol is a traditional star-shaped Filipino Christmas lantern that symbolises the star of Bethlehem, made with bamboo, Capiz shells and paper. At sunset, the skies over Tumbalong Park will be filled with the glow of hundreds of lanterns coming together for an incredible and rare spectacle.
In true Filipino style and delighting food lovers, mouthwatering dishes will be a key feature of the two-day festivities. Expect a feast of authentic Filipino food featuring sweet and savoury dishes that are typical of the holiday season in the Philippines. Look out for lechon (charcoal-roasted pork belly), adobo (marinated pork or chicken), ube (purple yam) ice cream, and the popular dessert, halo halo.
While the Philippine Department of Tourism will be hosting its activation tent including a 360-degree video booth, other entertainments to look forward to include regular live performances of music and dance, Christmas carol singing, and appearances from some of the biggest names in Filipino showbiz. Take part in the huge selection of fun family-friendly activities on offer including colouring competitions, Christmas parlour games, and much more.
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