More than five dozen Belens now illuminate communities across Tarlac as the 18th Belenismo sa Tarlac unfolds, drawing 52 participating displays in a province-wide celebration of Christmas rooted in faith, craftsmanship, and communal effort.
Organizers said the annual festival features entries across five categories, with 20 participants in the Community category, seven in the Church category, 12 in the Monumental category, three in the Grand Non-Municipal category, and 10 in the Grand Municipal category.
Beyond the registered participants, Belens have also been mounted by various businesses, organizations, churches, private homes, and municipalities throughout the province, extending the festival beyond official competition sites and into neighborhoods and public spaces.
Launched in 2007 and accredited by the Department of Tourism, Belenismo sa Tarlac has become a signature Christmas event in the province, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic skill of Tarlaqueños. Organizers said the festival has also grown into a symbol of unity, reflecting a collective effort by communities to come together during the Christmas season.
The festival is a voluntary initiative by the people of Tarlac aimed at restoring and preserving the religious and cultural significance of the Belen as a central symbol of Christmas. Belenismo sa Tarlac is also a member of the Federation Española de Belenistas.
Organizers have invited the public to visit Tarlac and experience the Belen displays, highlighting the creativity and shared tradition visible across communities in the province.
