Balikbayan Box Holiday Shipping Season: When to Send for Christmas + Free Family Discussion Guide
It is almost September which is often affectionately referred to as the “Ber” months in the Philippines. Depending on how you send your balikbayan box it can take up to two months for balikbayan boxes to arrive if you ship it by sea. Now is the perfect to begin packing and sending your boxes to ensure delivery in time for the holiday season.
When should I send a balikbayan box for Christmas?
If you’re sending a Balikbayan box to loved ones and hoping it will arrive in the Philippines before Christmas, late August through September is a great time to start planning. Sea shipments can take several weeks or longer, especially during the busy holiday season. Make sure to check with your local balikbayan box company for their specific holiday shipping dates and recommended cutoffs to ensure Pasko delivery.
What is a balikbayan box?
The word balikbayan comes from two Filipino words:
- balik – to return
- bayan – town, homeland, or country
Together, the word refers to someone returning home to the Philippines. When overseas workers were unable to come home themselves they began sending balikbayan boxes in their place. These large boxes are filled with gifts, everyday necessities, and favorite treats. They became a symbol of love, connection and affection sent to loved ones back home. Balikbayan boxes became a popular, affordable way to send goods.
Help children feel involved in learning about the balikbayan box tradition and provide a meaningful experience exploring heritage and family connection.
Are you packing a balikbayan box for family in the Philippines? Do you have children excited to help? This year, consider sharing Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures, a heartwarming picture book that celebrates family, love, and connection across the miles.
Get the book + a FREE Family Activity Pack which includes printable keepsakes to tuck inside your balikbayan box and a family discussion guide to provide a meaningful experience for the whole pamilya. Boxes can take around two months to arrive, so now is a great time to start packing in time for Pasko deliveries!
Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures is available to check out at local libraries around the world. You can visit worldcat.org to see if it’s available, or if you are a library patron, you may put in a library request for your library to carry it. In addition, it is readily available for purchase online.
Does your family send balikbayan boxes?
What is one thing you always make sure to include?
I’d love to hear about your family’s balikbayan box traditions in the comments!
