On Glögg and Scandinavian Christmas traditions

MANILA, Philippines - The holiday season shows us the diverse array of Christmas traditions present in the Philippines, coming from various parts of the world. Though Philippine holiday customs such as Simbang Gabi and the ever-present parol still take prominence this season, we are able to enjoy and experience the practices that make the holiday special in different parts of the globe.

Volvo brings some Scandinavian touches to its Christmas celebrations by hosting the Christmas cocktail party of the Nordic Business Council of the Philippines (NBCP.) Held at the Volvo Makati showroom, the NBCP Christmas cocktail party is the annual get together of Scandinavian business owners, and professionals representing Nordic brands and companies in the Philippines. It is also the occasion when new NBCP members are inducted and guests are able to catch up and socialize in a casual and cozy atmosphere. Christmas is a particularly special occasion for Scandinavians, who maintain that Santa Claus actually originated from the region. During the celebration, traditional Northern European cuisine was served, with dishes such as smoked salmon and capers, shrimp and cucumber salad and Swedish meatballs with onion gravy gracing the plates of the distinguished guests. However, the undisputed highlight of the night was the serving of Glögg, a traditional Scandinavian Christmas drink that truly brings warmth and Christmas spirit to all who consume it. Glögg is a mulled red wine heavily spiced with cardamom, cinnamon, raisins, cloves, and spiked with a dash of vodka. This holiday treat is served warm in a coffee mug together with gingersnaps. For many of the Filipino guests, their first encounter with the drink was exciting, some noting that it tasted like Christmas in a cup. Meanwhile, Scandinavian guests were reminded of wonderful Christmas memories from home. Instructions on how to make Glögg yourself can be found on the Volvo Philippines YouTube site and Facebook page.

Guests were delighted to have a taste of Scandinavian Christmas customs through this simple get-together with friends and close business associates in an intimate and family-oriented atmosphere. “As representatives of a Swedish brand, we are delighted to give Filipinos a flavour of how Christmas is celebrated in Volvo’s homeland. Volvo has always valued the love and warmth felt in a family, and we aim to make every customer feel this warmth whenever they enter our showrooms. After all, Volvos are designed to care for and protect those who are most precious to you” noted Volvo Philippines Senior Marketing Manager Chris Yu.