Ways to Integrate Filipino Culture into Thanksgiving Family Celebrations
Credit: R. Galan. Filipinos representing their culture in a Thanksgiving Day parade in Houston, Texas.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and share a feast with loved ones. For Filipino-American families, this holiday provides a wonderful opportunity to blend two rich traditions, the Filipino spirit of bayanihan (community and togetherness) with the gratitude-focused celebration of Thanksgiving. Here’s how you can integrate Filipino culture into your Thanksgiving celebration:
1. Infuse Filipino Flavors into the Thanksgiving Feast
The heart of Thanksgiving is the food, and adding Filipino dishes to the table can create a delicious fusion of cultures. Consider these ideas:
Adobo Turkey: Marinate the turkey in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves for a Filipino twist on the Thanksgiving centerpiece. Roast it to perfection for a savory, tangy dish.
Lechon Kawali: Serve crispy pork belly alongside traditional Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Pancit and Lumpia: These Filipino staples, stir-fried noodles and spring rolls, are perfect for large gatherings and symbolize long life and prosperity.
Filipino Desserts: Delight your guests with ube halaya, leche flan, or bibingka (rice cake) as sweet endings to the feast.
Rice as a Side Dish: No Filipino table is complete without rice. Pair it with Thanksgiving gravy or serve garlic fried rice for a flavorful alternative.
2. Celebrate with Filipino Traditions of Gratitude
Gratitude is central to both Thanksgiving and Filipino culture. Bring a Filipino lens to this aspect of the holiday:
Thanksgiving Prayer in Tagalog: Begin the meal with a prayer of thanks, incorporating phrases like “Salamat po, Panginoon” (Thank you, Lord).
Bayanihan Spirit: Encourage family members to contribute to the celebration, whether by cooking, decorating, or simply being present and helpful.
Pasasalamat Rituals: Before eating, invite each guest to share something they’re thankful for, much like the Filipino tradition of expressing gratitude during milestones.
3. Decorate with Filipino-Inspired Elements
Infuse Filipino aesthetics into your Thanksgiving décor for a warm, welcoming atmosphere:
Capiz Lanterns (Parols): Hang these traditional Christmas lanterns as a nod to Filipino culture.
Banig Placemats: Use handwoven mats as placemats or table runners for a rustic, Filipino touch.
Tropical Elements: Incorporate fresh flowers, coconuts, or palm leaves into your centerpiece
4. Share Filipino Music and Stories
Thanksgiving gatherings often involve music and storytelling, making it the perfect opportunity to highlight Filipino culture:
Filipino Playlist: Curate a playlist featuring kundiman (traditional love songs), modern OPM (Original Pilipino Music), or even karaoke—a beloved Filipino pastime.
Family Stories: Share tales of Filipino heritage, migration, and resilience to connect younger generations with their roots.
Cultural Games: Introduce fun Filipino games like piko (hopscotch) or sungka (mancala-like game) to entertain everyone.
5. Include Filipino Community in the Celebration
In the spirit of bayanihan, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to extend your celebration beyond the immediate family:
Potluck-Style Gathering: Invite Filipino and non-Filipino friends to bring their favorite dishes, fostering a multicultural feast.
Charitable Giving: Embrace the Filipino value of kawanggawa (charity) by donating food or resources to those in need during the holiday season.
6. Embrace Salubong (Warm Welcomes) and Hospitality
Filipino culture is renowned for its hospitality. Make your Thanksgiving celebration one to remember by ensuring every guest feels welcome and valued:
Greet guests with a warm “Mabuhay!” and offer them a refreshing drink or snack upon arrival.
Create a festive ambiance with lively conversations and a sense of familial love.
7. Reflect and Give Thanks in a Filipino Way
Thanksgiving is a time to pause and appreciate life’s blessings. Incorporate harana (traditional serenades) or poetry reading sessions to express heartfelt gratitude.
By blending the warmth and vibrancy of Filipino culture with Thanksgiving traditions, you create a celebration that honors your heritage while embracing the spirit of the holiday. It’s not just about the food or décor—it’s about the shared stories, laughter, and gratitude that bring families together.
