An Enchanting Christmas

 

Christmas in Vigan has always felt enchanting. Simbang Gabi at St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, then going to eat at the fast-food chains around. The hectic atmosphere of the shopping center, and the busy shoppers looking for the perfect gift that they can give to their loved ones. The Christmas breeze is felt when you are walking through the streets of Calle Crisologo, or sitting in the swings of Plaza Burgos. Sure, it may not be different from any other place’s Christmas season, but the fact that it is Vigan, and feels like home – this is what makes it so special. 

Although this has all changed when the pandemic struck. Rarely do you see children playing in the playgrounds of Plaza Burgos. All you can do is watch the Empty Cathedral during Simbang gabi season. A lot has changed, and sometimes we feel like the change brought emptiness in our hearts. But during this time do we realize that isolation brought all of us together. 

During the pandemic’s Christmas, there was no physical Simbang Gabi, But based on the posts on Facebook, families have gathered and watched the live broadcast of the Simbang Gabi. although there were no fast-food chains they can go to. A family dinner was there waiting for them. The Christmas breeze can still be felt in the comforts of their own home 

Even during the most isolated moments, the Christmas feeling is still there. There is no better way to spend Christmas than somewhere where it feels like home. And for me, home is here. Right in the Heritage City of Vigan. 

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