Philippines Christmas Festival
Come celebrate the rich traditions of a Filipino Christmas with us at Tumbalong Park.
Get ready to experience an incredible surge of festive cheer and Filipino culture as the highly anticipated Philippine Christmas (Pasko) Festival returns to Darling Harbour this November. Now in its fourth year, this vibrant two-day event hosted by the Philippine Community Council of NSW will transform Tumbalong Park into a joyful showcase of traditional Filipino celebrations, food, and entertainment.
A Christmas Tradition Like No Other
In the Philippines, Christmas is more than just a holiday—it’s a month-long celebration filled with warmth, community, and lively traditions. The festive season starts as early as September, making the Philippines home to the longest Christmas celebration in the world.
One of the most anticipated activities of the Philippine Christmas Festival is the Parol Lantern Contest. A parol is a traditional Filipino Christmas lantern, typically star-shaped and symbolising the Star of Bethlehem. This competition is a chance for members of the Filipino community to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. While the contest is only open to those of Filipino descent, everyone is welcome to admire these glowing symbols of hope and joy. The lanterns, made from materials like bamboo, capiz shells, and paper, will light up Tumbalong Park, creating a dazzling spectacle as the sun sets.
Details
- Date: Saturday 16 November - Sunday 17 November 2024
- Time: Kicks off at 10am each day
- Location: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour
- Cost: Entry is free
Mouth-watering Filipino cuisine
For food lovers, the Philippine Pasko Festival is a must-visit. Expect a feast of authentic Filipino food, with stalls offering both sweet and savoury delights that capture the essence of the holiday season. Think lechon (charcoal-roasted pork belly), adobo (a vinegary, soy sauce-marinated chicken or pork dish), ube (purple yam) ice cream and well known dessert halo halo. This refreshing shaved ice treat is layered with sweetened beans, coconut strips, jellies, and ube ice cream, topped with a drizzle of milk.
Energetic and intricate dance routines that range from time-honoured folk dances to modern interpretations will fill Tumbalong Park, showcasing the diversity of Filipino artistry. Plus some of the biggest names in Filipino showbiz will be making an appearance.
- Marlissa Punzalan - Grand Winner of Australian X-Factor 2014
- Fasika
- Local Filipino Bands
- MYX Global
The grand "TFC Happy Hour" to be headlined by some of the biggest names in Filipino showbiz - from the cast of the popular TV series ‘Batang Quiapo’:
- Coco Martin
- Smugglaz
- Basilyo
- Lito Lapid
- Mark Lapid
- Kim Domingo
- Ate Gay
Get ready to unleash your inner champion and have a blast! This weekend is packed with fun and games that'll test your skills, and let your creativity soar.
Mark your calendar and join us for a truly festive celebration that brings the heart of a Filipino Christmas to Darling Harbour. Bring your appetite, curiosity, and festive spirit - you won’t want to miss this!
Darling Harbour proudly celebrates Sydney’s diverse multi-cultural community with a host of vibrant cultural festivals that take visitors on a trip around the globe throughout the year.
Explore all the exciting festivals happening this year! Or discover what else is on at Darling Harbour.