
Lubenas Festival: Magalang Kapampangan Christmas Tradition
The Lubenas Festival in Magalang has its roots in the Spanish Catholic novena, nine days of prayer before a major feast, which evolved into a lantern-led Christmas procession in Kapampangan culture. The word Lubenas derives from “novenas,” emphasizing nine nights of prayer and light. In Magalang, the festival is not just a parade; it is a religious ritual and act of devotion that unites generations through lanterns expressing faith and artistry.