Simbang Gabi 2025: Guide to Schedules for Manila’s Major Churches
The holiday season in Manila is not complete without Simbang Gabi. It is that time of year when the city feels calm in the early morning. The air is cooler, and people line up for bibingka after mass. You may go for faith, for family tradition, or just for the food. There is something special about this nine-day novena.
This guide provides the schedules for major churches in Metro Manila. It will help you know where to catch those early morning masses this December.
A quick note: Mass schedules can sometimes change. It is always a good idea to check the official websites or social media pages for the most current information before you go.
Planning Your Simbang Gabi? Here Are the 2025 Schedules for Manila’s Biggest Churches
Manila Cathedral
The Manila Cathedral is known as the “Mother Church” of the Philippines. It holds solemn Simbang Gabi masses, usually starting around 4:00 AM. The grand choir and historical setting make every visit a special experience. It is one of the most crowded but meaningful spots for dawn mass.
- Location: Cabildo cor. Beaterio Streets, Intramuros, Manila
- Contact: https://manilacathedral.com.ph | (02) 8527-1796 | office@manilacathedral.com.ph
- Pro-Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to get a good seat. Parking inside Intramuros fills up fast, so plan ahead.
Quiapo Church
Quiapo Church is famous for its large crowds and deep devotion. It hosts early dawn Simbang Gabi masses filled with high energy and faith. It is a spiritual experience that captures Filipino Catholic tradition.
- Location: 910 Plaza Miranda, Quiapo, Manila
- Contact: https://quiapochurch.com.ph | (02) 8733-4945 | nazareno.npjn@gmail.com
- Pro-Tip: Bring a small towel and water, as it can get warm inside with the crowd. Keep your belongings secure since the area gets very packed.
San Agustin Church
As the oldest stone church in the country, San Agustin Church offers a peaceful and timeless Simbang Gabi experience. The mass usually starts around 4:30 AM. The candlelight and choir music fill the Baroque-style interior.
- Location: General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila
- Contact: https://www.facebook.com/SACImmaculateConceptionParishIntramuros | 0938 131 1285 | sanagustinchurch1571@gmail.com
- Pro-Tip: You can visit the nearby museum after mass if it is open. It is a nice quiet spot to continue your reflection.
Binondo Church
Located in the heart of the world’s oldest Chinatown, Binondo Church celebrates Simbang Gabi around 4:00 AM. After mass, you can enjoy a traditional Chinese-Filipino breakfast in nearby eateries. The area glows with lanterns and lights.
- Location: 1006 Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Binondo, Manila
- Contact: https://www.facebook.com/binondochurch1596 | (02) 8242-4850 | binondochurch1596@gmail.com
- Pro-Tip: After mass, head to Ongpin Street for an early breakfast. Hopia and congee are local favorites. Bring cash.
Greenbelt Chapel
For city dwellers, Greenbelt Chapel offers anticipated Simbang Gabi masses around 8:00 PM. It is surrounded by the serene garden of the mall. The modern design and calm greenery make it a peaceful escape. It is a good choice for professionals attending after work.
- Location: Ayala Center, Makati City
- Contact: https://www.facebook.com/greenbeltchapel | gbc2013office@gmail.com
- Pro-Tip: Arrive before 7:30 PM to find a seat, as the area fills up fast. After mass, enjoy a calm walk around the chapel’s garden.
Baclaran Church
Baclaran Church is one of the busiest churches in the country. It holds multiple dawn masses starting as early as 3:30 AM. Thousands of people gather here daily. This creates a vibrant and prayerful atmosphere. Its doors are also open 24 hours.
- Location: Redemptorist Road, Baclaran, Parañaque
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/baclaranchurch | (02) 8832-1150 | baclaranrector@yahoo.com
- Pro-Tip: If you are driving, park a few blocks away to avoid the rush. You can light candles or visit the nearby night market after mass.
Parañaque Cathedral
This coastal cathedral is a popular spot for Simbang Gabi in the south. Masses start around 4:00 AM. The open-air setting, colorful lights, and lively choir make every celebration joyful. Locals appreciate its friendly community feel.
- Location: Quirino Avenue, La Huerta, Parañaque
- Contact: https://www.facebook.com/standrew1580 | (02) 8826-1760
- Pro-Tip: Wear light clothes since it is an open-air setup. Try the local kakanin stalls outside after mass.
San Sebastian Church
Built entirely of steel, San Sebastian Church stands out for its Gothic beauty. Simbang Gabi here usually begins at 4:30 AM. It offers a visually impressive and peaceful experience. It is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys architecture and sacred music.
- Location: Pasaje del Carmen St, Quiapo, Manila
- Contact: https://www.facebook.com/sansebastianbasilicamanila | 0998 951 6484 | mainbaste.media@gmail.com
- Pro-Tip: Take a few photos before sunrise. The light through the stained glass is very nice. Bring a handheld fan.
St. Jude Thaddeus Church
Known for its Wednesday novenas, St. Jude Church also joins the Simbang Gabi tradition. Masses start at 4:30 AM. It is smaller than other basilicas but offers a close-knit, quiet atmosphere. It is a good option for a more reflective novena.
- Location: Jose P. Laurel Sr. cor. Ycaza Streets, San Miguel, Manila
- Contact: https://www.stjudemanila.com | (02) 8735-6408 | stjude07@yahoo.com
- Pro-Tip: Go early to find parking since the church area is small. Many devotees believe it is a powerful place for petitions.
Antipolo Cathedral
While outside Metro Manila, the Antipolo Cathedral draws thousands of people each Christmas season. Simbang Gabi starts around 4:00 AM. It is often held outdoors to accommodate large crowds. The cool mountain air and scenic setting make it a refreshing place to attend dawn mass.
- Location: Dela Paz St, Antipolo City, 1870 Rizal
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/antipolocathedralph | 0917 110 8626 | birhenngantipolo@gmail.com
- Pro-Tip: Bring a jacket. The early morning air here can be chilly. Enjoy local delicacies like suman and kasuy after mass.
For the latest updates on schedules, be sure to follow the social media pages of the churches you plan to visit.
Planning Your Noche Buena Feast?
Simbang Gabi takes care of the nine dawns leading up to Christmas, but what about the big midnight feast? Planning your Noche Buena spread can be a lot of work, especially when you have a big family. If you want to skip the stress of cooking this year, ordering lechon and party trays is the way to go.
To help you find the best of the best, we have a full guide to the city’s most trusted and delicious options. Check out our guide to the Best Lechon & Party Trays in Manila for Noche Buena.
More…
- https://philstarlife.com/news-and-views/434056-simbang-gabi-schedule-in-malls
- https://thebeat.asia/manila/nomads/explore/visit-these-beautiful-churches-around-the-metro-this-simbang-gabi-season
- https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/503049/simbang-gabi-schedules-in-historical-metro-manila-churches-abulan-20181214
