Go to a Cemetery; Join a Party?

Discovering new holidays is just one of the benefits of living in another country. Today is November 1st and on this day Filipinos celebrate "All Saints Day". I had heard a little here and there about this rather intriguing holiday so I decided to go check it out for myself. Where did I go to learn how Filipino's celebrate All Saints Day? Why the massive cemetery in North Manila of course! Unfortunately, this cemetery is quite a ways from my home in Makati so I took a bus, train, and finally a sweet tricycle ride to the cemetery (picture of sweet ride below).


I have rarely seen that many people in one place and never, never at a cemetery! The cemetery was huge! I walked for 2 hours and never walked down the same "road". Below was the main thoroughfare.
I am not particularly shy about talking to strangers so I spoke to several locals who were celebrating to find out more about the holiday. Lucky for me the Filipino people are extremely friendly. One made one new friend who was kind enough to give an overall description of the holiday and how he and his family celebrate every year. I have a wonderful video of his description unfortunately I am unable to post it so I'll try and summarize: every year Filipino families gather at the grave sites of their loved ones in order to celebrate their lives and to bring the families closer together. And according to my new friend, the most important part is eating lots and lots of good food!


As with so many Filipino holidays (and many holidays around the world), food plays an important role. I got a whole lot of stares as I strolled along through the cemetery, not sure if it was due to the fact that I am 6' tall and blonde or if everyone was thinking "Really? YOU have relatives buried here?" Perhaps a combination of both? In an effort to fit in I decided to join in the eating! Scarfing down 4 deep fried quail eggs and a pineapple juice from a street vendor for lunch may not have been an incredibly wise decision but pretty tasty!


If you are visiting another country be sure to participate in and learn about that countries holidays and don't be afraid to meet new people, most people don't bite. Oh, and by the way, whenever I pass away I would like for you to bring cookies to my funeral site. I have quite the sweet tooth, much like the fellow bel0w.


Erin - AAG Pilipinas Office Manager