Happy holidays! I’m Connie Veneracion, retired lawyer and columnist, mom of two, an adventurous cook and a food-obsessed writer.

In the country with the longest Christmas season, food plays an important role in Filipino holiday traditions.

Bask in nostalgia with classic dishes while embracing the future with modern twists on old favorites. Decide on your menu early, shop for ingredients, cook some of the dishes in advance then just relax and enjoy the holidays.

Below, check out some ideas and inspirations for your noche buena meal, and for the family lunch and dinner on Christmas day.