Festive Files: Manila Magic with Dominik Haring

Vienna-born but Manila by heart, Dominik Haring embraces the Philippines with lechon, two Christmas Days, and Chris Rea on loop.

We speak with Dominik Haring of Studio Haring for Festive Files, a series that looks into the holiday traditions of creatives in the Philippines. He shares his passion for the country’s Christmas culture and the rituals he has adopted over the years.

What’s your favorite thing about Christmas in the Philippines?

I never expected to celebrate Christmas anywhere better than where I was born, but now I honestly wouldn’t want to spend it anywhere else than in the Philippines. The amount of decor all over Manila instantly puts me in the Christmas mood, and I love how the holiday spirit starts so early here.

Do you have any holiday traditions that are unique to your family?

On Christmas Eve, each family member prepares their part of the dinner—starters, mains, desserts—and together we create the complete holiday experience.

What’s the one Filipino Christmas food you can’t live without?

Lechon is the Filipino Christmas food I can’t live without. For me, it’s the very spirit of Christmas on the table.

How do you usually spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?

On Christmas Eve, I have a family dinner and go to church at midnight. Then the first and second Christmas Days are spent with loved ones, sharing blessings, exchanging gifts, and enjoying meals together. And yes, we have two Christmas days!

Are there any childhood holiday memories that still make you smile?

Whenever I think back to Christmas as a child, I can’t help but smile remembering my mother busy in the kitchen, creating the most wonderful little bites. It was magical watching her bring it all together. We miss you, Mom.

What’s your go-to Christmas or New Year outfit?

For Christmas and New Year, I usually go for something fancy and dandy, with a touch of glitter. I like a little sparkle to match the festive mood.

Do you have any favorite holiday songs or movies that you watch every year?

My favorite holiday song is “Driving Home for Christmas” by Chris Rea. It perfectly captures that warm, festive feeling. And my go-to Christmas movie is always Home Alone; even my daughter has seen it around ten times by now!

Are there any New Year’s Eve rituals or superstitions you follow?

I’m not very superstitious, but on New Year’s Eve, I always wear something red underneath—a small tradition my mother passed on to me for luck, passion, and love in the year ahead.